Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress, let me introduce you to the delightful Neapolitan Cake! This stunning cake brings together three beloved flavors: rich chocolate, sweet vanilla, and refreshing strawberry. Each layer is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. The best part? It’s simple enough to whip up, yet elegant enough for special occasions.

This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it brings so much joy to every table it graces. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just want to treat your loved ones, this Neapolitan Cake is bound to create smiles and happy memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake comes together without any fuss, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its unique flavors, everyone—kids and adults alike—will be reaching for seconds!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual get-togethers to formal celebrations, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake the layers in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to serve.
• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant layers not only taste amazing but also look fabulous on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that will help us create this beautiful cake. You likely have many of these on hand already!

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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the extracts: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for a more intense flavor.
• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts into one of the layers for a delightful texture contrast.
• Try different flavors: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange for a fun twist.
• Layer with frosting: Add a layer of whipped cream or your favorite frosting between the layers for extra indulgence.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans. Preheating ensures that your cakes rise beautifully and cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. This step helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a lighter cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by milk. Gradually add dry ingredients until just combined. Taking your time here prevents overmixing, which can make your cake dense.

Step 5: Divide and Flavor the Batter

Divide batter into three bowls: leave one plain for vanilla; mix cocoa powder into the second for chocolate; add strawberry extract to the third. This gives each layer its distinct flavor profile.

Step 6: Bake the Layers

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

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between layers. Cooling fully prevents melting frosting and ensures clean slices when serving.

And there you have it! A deliciously vibrant Neapolitan Cake that will surely delight everyone who gets a slice. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Baking a Neapolitan Cake can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature ensures they incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a smoother and fluffier cake.

• Level Your Cake Layers: After baking, if your cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to trim them flat. This will help your cake stack evenly and look more professional.

• Chill Your Cake Before Frosting: Letting your cakes cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frosting makes them easier to handle and minimizes crumbs in your frosting.

• Experiment with Frosting Flavors: While classic buttercream is delicious, consider adding a hint of strawberry or chocolate flavor to your frosting for an extra layer of taste that complements each cake layer.

• Store Properly: To keep your Neapolitan Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Serving your Neapolitan Cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this beautiful dessert at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Top each slice with a few fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top of the frosting for an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add a splash of color but also lend a refreshing aroma that pairs nicely with the cake’s rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free alternative adds lightness and creaminess that perfectly balances the richness of the cake.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a burst of freshness and contrasts beautifully with the dense layers of the cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice offers a creamy complement that enhances the overall dessert experience.
• Espresso or Coffee: Serving a small cup of espresso or coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet layers, offering a delightful way to enjoy this indulgent treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Neapolitan Cake will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each layer of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze the layers individually for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and assembling.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Neapolitan Cake that might help you along the way!

Can I use different flavors for my Neapolitan Cake?

Absolutely! While traditional Neapolitan Cake features chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, feel free to experiment with other flavors like lemon or raspberry. Just remember to adjust your extracts accordingly!

How long does it take to make a Neapolitan Cake?

The total time for preparing this delicious Neapolitan Cake is about 50 minutes—20 minutes of prep followed by 30 minutes of baking. It’s a quick yet impressive dessert!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Neapolitan Cake recipe?

Yes! You can replace the strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries for an enhanced flavor profile. Additionally, if you’re looking for more texture, consider adding chopped nuts or drizzling caramel sauce between layers.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Neapolitan Cake recipe inspires you as much as it has inspired me! It’s a wonderful way to bring together vibrant flavors in one stunning dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something sweet, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every moment of making it, and don’t forget to share it with those you love!