Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat, then this Neapolitan Cake is your answer! This cake is like a colorful celebration on a plate, combining rich chocolate, sweet vanilla, and refreshing strawberry flavors into three luscious layers. It’s become a favorite in my home for so many reasons—whether it’s for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a cozy evening treat. There’s something magical about slicing into this cake and revealing the vibrant colors inside!

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make. It’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. You’ll love how each bite brings joy and a burst of flavor that can brighten any day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The three layers create a beautiful presentation that impresses everyone.
• Flavorful Layers: Each layer offers its own unique taste that harmonizes perfectly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of flavors.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip this up with minimal fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or a simple weekend dessert, this cake fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Neapolitan Cake requires simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. These ingredients come together beautifully to create the rich layers of flavor we all love in this classic dessert.

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 2 tsp strawberry extract

Variations

One of the best things about Neapolitan Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add Fresh Strawberries: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for an enhanced flavor.
• Mix In Nuts: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts between the layers.
• Drizzle Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce between layers can add an indulgent touch.
• Swap the Flavors: Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange to shake things up.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cakes bake evenly and rise beautifully while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Setting these dry ingredients aside helps ensure that they are well mixed before combining them with the wet ingredients later.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process adds air into your batter, which helps create a tender cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the whole milk. Gradually mixing in these wet ingredients ensures everything incorporates smoothly without overworking the batter.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to be light and fluffy!

Step 6: Divide Batter for Flavor Layers

Now it’s time to divide your batter into three bowls: leave one plain for vanilla; mix cocoa powder into the second bowl for chocolate; add strawberry extract to the third bowl. This gives us those lovely distinct flavors we crave in Neapolitan Cake.

Step 7: Bake Your Cakes

Pour each flavored batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 8: Cool and Stack

Allow your cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between each layer. This step is essential as it prevents melting and keeps your cake from collapsing under pressure.

And there you have it—your very own homemade Neapolitan Cake! Enjoy baking, sharing, and of course, indulging in every flavorful slice!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Baking a Neapolitan Cake can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature allows for better emulsification, resulting in a smoother batter that bakes evenly.

• Measure Flour Correctly: For the best texture, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing and ensures you don’t end up with a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of the tender crumb you desire.

• Check for Doneness: Avoid opening the oven too soon. Instead, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Cool Cakes Completely: Letting your cakes cool completely before frosting is crucial. If they’re warm, the frosting can melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful layers.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Presenting your Neapolitan Cake beautifully makes it even more enticing! Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: A handful of strawberries or raspberries on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements each layer perfectly.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on each slice enhances the tropical vibe while keeping it dairy-free.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top for an elegant touch that also hints at the chocolate layer beneath.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that balances out the flavors beautifully.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing this cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea creates a wonderful experience that enhances its flavors.
• Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of decadence and can be used for dipping bites of cake.

Now that you’re armed with these pro tips and serving suggestions, get ready to delight your family and friends with your stunning Neapolitan Cake! Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it over several days. Here’s how to store your cake properly to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To enjoy a slice warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Neapolitan Cake that might help you along your baking journey.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract in Neapolitan Cake?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries for enhanced flavor. Just ensure you adjust the wet ingredients slightly if needed.

How do I store leftovers of my Neapolitan Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing!

What makes Neapolitan Cake special?

Neapolitan Cake is special because it showcases three classic flavors—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry—in one stunning dessert. It’s perfect for any celebration!

Can I make Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made ahead of time and stored properly. It actually tastes great after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this lovely Neapolitan Cake! The combination of rich chocolate, sweet vanilla, and refreshing strawberry creates a dessert that’s not just beautiful but bursting with flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake will surely impress. Enjoy every moment of your baking experience, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family!