Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone at your next gathering, the Neapolitan Cake is just what you need! This lovely cake layers rich chocolate, sweet vanilla, and refreshing strawberry flavors into a beautiful creation that tastes as good as it looks. It’s one of those recipes that has a special place in my heart because it combines my favorite flavors into one delightful treat. Whether it’s a birthday party, an anniversary celebration, or just a cozy weekend dessert, this cake has a way of bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.

What I love most about this Neapolitan Cake is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for busy weeknights or spend some time decorating it for a big family gathering. No matter the occasion, each slice is sure to bring joy and delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can bake this cake with ease.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the classic combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry—this cake is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for celebrations: The vibrant layers make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any festive table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake the layers in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to serve, saving you precious time on special days.
• Delicious flavor: Each slice offers a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Neapolitan Cake uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Cake Layers

• 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 this Neapolitan Cake is its flexibility! You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or to make it even more exciting. Here are some fun variations:

• Substitute strawberries: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for a burst of natural flavor.
• Add nuts: For added texture, mix in some chopped nuts between the layers or on top for decoration.
• Drizzle with caramel: A swirl of caramel sauce between the layers adds sweetness and richness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Try different extracts: Experiment with other extracts like almond or coconut for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans. This ensures the cakes come out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set this aside. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agent so your cakes rise perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, creating a tender cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in each egg one at a time, followed by adding milk. Then gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our cake light!

Step 5: Divide Batter

Now comes the fun part! Divide the batter into three bowls: leave one plain for vanilla, mix cocoa powder into one for chocolate, and add strawberry extract to the last one. Each layer will bring its unique flavor!

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes

Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma wafting from your oven will be heavenly!

Step 7: Cool and Assemble

Allow cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between each layer. This step is crucial—if they’re warm, they might crumble apart when you stack them!

Now you’re ready to enjoy every delicious bite of this stunning Neapolitan Cake! It’s truly a treat that celebrates sweet moments together.

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Making a beautiful Neapolitan Cake can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your baking game to the next level!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing. This helps create a lighter, fluffier cake by incorporating more air into the batter.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour. This prevents you from adding too much flour, which can result in a dense cake instead of a light one.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, which isn’t what we want in our heavenly layers.

• Cool Cakes Completely: Let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This ensures that the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off the layers, giving you a beautifully frosted cake.

• Chill Between Layers: If you’re having trouble stacking your layers, chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilled cakes are easier to handle and will maintain their shape better when assembled.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Presenting your Neapolitan Cake beautifully can make it even more special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this stunning dessert that will wow your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries placed on top not only add color but also enhance the fruity flavor of the cake.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds an extra layer of richness and complements the flavors perfectly.
• Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top gives a decadent touch that will please any chocolate lover.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the Neapolitan flavors and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a fresh side that balances out the richness of the cake.
• Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso or coffee enhances the chocolate notes in the cake and makes for a delightful after-dinner treat.
• Mint Tea: For a lighter option, serving mint tea can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing finish to your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy making and serving this delicious Neapolitan Cake! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you feel like treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring happiness to every bite. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is not only a delightful treat but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it properly to enjoy its rich flavors over several days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each layer of the cake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I make Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake and assemble your Neapolitan Cake a day or two in advance. Just store it properly as outlined above to maintain freshness.

What variations can I try with Neapolitan Cake?

Feel free to experiment! You can substitute strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries for a more natural flavor. Adding nuts or drizzling caramel sauce between layers can also elevate the taste!

How do I keep my Neapolitan Cake moist?

To ensure your cake stays moist, avoid overbaking and consider brushing each layer lightly with simple syrup before frosting. This adds moisture without overpowering the flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Neapolitan Cake recipe inspires you as much as it excites your taste buds! This vibrant three-layer delight is perfect for any occasion, bringing together classic flavors that everyone loves. Enjoy the process of creating this beautiful dessert, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends. Happy baking!