Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will make everyone’s eyes light up, then you’ve come to the right place! The Neapolitan Cake is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a celebration of colors and flavors that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this cake serves as the perfect centerpiece. It’s one of my favorites because it combines rich chocolate, sweet vanilla, and refreshing strawberry into three delightful layers that are sure to impress.

What truly makes this Neapolitan Cake special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can whip it up for birthdays, anniversaries, or even just as a surprise treat for your loved ones. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find this recipe easy and enjoyable.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry makes it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This cake can be baked in advance and stored until you’re ready to frost and serve.
• Visually Stunning: The layers of color make this cake not only delicious but also beautiful on the table.
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily adapt the flavors to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Neapolitan Cake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything together so we can get started on this delightful treat!

• 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

The beauty of the Neapolitan Cake lies in its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have or what flavors you enjoy most.

• Swap the Extracts: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for an enhanced fruity flavor.
• Mix in Some Crunch: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts or layering in some crushed cookies between the cake layers.
• Try Different Frostings: Instead of traditional frosting, try whipped cream or a fruity glaze to complement the layers.
• Add a Surprise Layer: Consider adding a layer of lemon curd or raspberry jam for an unexpected twist.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures even baking. Properly greasing the pans helps prevent sticking later when we want those beautiful layers to come out perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

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

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, which is key for creating a light texture in your cake. It’s always satisfying to see how soft and creamy it becomes!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by milk. Gradually add dry ingredients until just combined. Adding eggs brings richness while milk adds moisture—both essential for our flavorful layers.

Step 5: Divide 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 is where the magic happens! Each layer will have its unique flavor profile.

Step 6: Bake Your Layers

Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Watching them rise is like witnessing little miracles in your kitchen!

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between layers. Patience is key here—cooling allows them to firm up so they stack nicely without crumbling apart.

Now you’re ready to put together your stunning Neapolitan Cake! Enjoy every moment of making this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Creating a stunning Neapolitan Cake is easier than you think! With these pro tips, your cake will not only taste amazing but also look like it came from a bakery.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter and results in a light and fluffy cake.

• Measure flour correctly: Avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup. Instead, spoon it into the cup and level it off with a knife to prevent dense cake layers.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of each layer; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cakes are ready to come out of the oven.

• Cool layers completely: Letting the cakes cool entirely before frosting is crucial to avoid melting your frosting and creating a mess during assembly.

• Experiment with fillings: Adding fresh fruits or flavored whipped cream between layers can enhance flavors and add exciting textures to each slice!

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Serving your Neapolitan Cake beautifully can make all the difference when sharing this delightful dessert. Here are some creative ideas to present this colorful treat!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: Top each slice with strawberries or raspberries for a fresh pop of color and flavor that complements the cake’s layers.
• Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings adds an elegant touch while enhancing the rich chocolate flavor.
• Whipped cream dollops: A light swirl of non-dairy whipped cream on top gives an airy contrast to the cake’s richness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with every bite, adding smoothness that balances the cake’s texture.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast and can cleanse the palate between slices of cake.
• Coffee or tea: Serving a warm beverage alongside enhances the dessert experience, making it cozy and inviting—perfect for gatherings!
• Chocolate sauce drizzles: For those chocolate lovers, offering chocolate sauce as a drizzle option will take this dessert to another level of indulgence.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable experience around your Neapolitan Cake that everyone will love! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready for any occasion. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If keeping for longer, place the cake in the refrigerator to extend freshness for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap each layer in plastic wrap tightly, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• If you’ve stored the cake in the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• For frozen layers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving.

FAQs

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

Can I make Neapolitan Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. This will help maintain moisture while keeping it egg-free.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Neapolitan Cake?

To add more flavor, consider using pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract. This adds a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that complements the other layers beautifully.

What can I serve with Neapolitan Cake?

Neapolitan Cake pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. Fresh berries on the side also make a lovely addition!

How should I store my Neapolitan Cake?

You can store your Neapolitan Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual layers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to bake this delightful Neapolitan Cake! Its beautiful layers and vibrant flavors are sure to impress anyone who gets a slice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge yourself, this recipe is truly special. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends—happy baking!