Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both delightful to look at and delicious to eat, the Neapolitan Cake is just the ticket! This cake brings together three beautiful layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. What I love most about this recipe is how it can brighten up any occasion—be it birthdays, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend indulgence at home. Each slice offers a unique burst of flavor that will surely leave your loved ones smiling.

Baking this Neapolitan Cake is not only fun but also incredibly satisfying. The vibrant colors of each layer come together in harmony, and I can promise you’ll be receiving compliments left and right!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this cake is surprisingly simple to whip up.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist this colorful dessert!
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for celebrations or just because—you’ll want to make it again and again.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake in advance, and you can assemble it later. It stays fresh for days!
• Delicious Flavor Combinations: The blend of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry creates a delightful symphony of tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Neapolitan Cake. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!

• 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

This Neapolitan Cake is flexible, which means there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking! Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the extract: Instead of using strawberry extract, try pureed fresh strawberries for an even more intense flavor.
• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture between layers.
• Drizzle with caramel: A drizzle of caramel sauce between layers will add a sweet twist that everyone will love.
• Use different flavors: Experiment with other extracts like lemon or mint for a unique take on this classic cake.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing three round cake pans will ensure your cakes come out easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination helps create a light texture in your cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial; it incorporates air into the batter for a tender cake!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Next, beat in each egg one at a time followed by the whole milk. Gradually add your dry mixture until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing; we want that perfect fluffiness!

Step 5: Divide Your Batter

Divide your batter into three bowls. Keep one plain for vanilla flavoring; mix cocoa powder into the second bowl for chocolate; add strawberry extract to the third bowl for that fruity touch.

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes

Pour each batter into its prepared pan. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Assemble

Once baked, allow your cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between each layer. The excitement builds as you create this beautiful masterpiece!

And there you have it! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Neapolitan Cake—it’s sure to become one of your favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Baking the perfect Neapolitan Cake is all about attention to detail and a little creativity. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature allows for better incorporation and a smoother batter, resulting in fluffy layers.

• Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to a dense cake. Use the spoon-and-level method (spooning flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off) for precise measurements.

• Cool cakes completely: Allow your cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps prevent breakage and ensures a stable layer for stacking.

• Level your layers: If the tops of your cakes are domed, use a serrated knife to level them off before frosting. This ensures a neat, professional-looking finish when you stack the layers.

• Chill before frosting: Once assembled, refrigerate your cake for about 30 minutes before frosting. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to apply a clean layer of frosting without pulling cake crumbs into it.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Presenting your Neapolitan Cake is just as important as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas to enhance its appearance and flavor when serving.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: Top each slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and an additional burst of flavor.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the cake.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for an elegant finish that ties in with the chocolate layer.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Neapolitan Cake, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the cake while adding vibrant colors to your dessert table.
• Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate notes of the cake and provides a wonderful after-dinner treat.
• Mint tea: For something lighter, serve mint tea alongside this cake. Its refreshing qualities cleanse the palate beautifully after enjoying dessert.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving ideas, it’s time to bake your own Neapolitan Cake and share its deliciousness with friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can bake it in advance and store it, making it an excellent choice for celebrations or just sweetening up your week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a week.
• For longer storage, consider slicing it into individual pieces.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of cake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• The cake can be frozen for up to three months.
• For best results, freeze before frosting.

Reheating

• If you’d like to enjoy the cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Neapolitan Cake:

Can I use different extracts for my Neapolitan Cake?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various extracts such as almond or coconut for different flavor profiles.

How do I make my Neapolitan Cake extra special?

Consider adding fresh fruit between layers or topping with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for added flair.

What are some tips for storing Neapolitan Cake?

Store your Neapolitan Cake tightly wrapped in the fridge or freeze individual slices for later enjoyment!

Can I make a gluten-free version of Neapolitan Cake?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long will my Neapolitan Cake last?

When properly stored, your Neapolitan Cake can last up to a week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this delightful Neapolitan Cake! With its beautiful layers and vibrant flavors, it’s not just a treat—it’s a celebration on a plate. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or indulging solo, this cake is sure to bring joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!