Indulge in the classic Neapolitan Cake, a delightful three-layer dessert featuring chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors. This cake is a crowd-pleaser and makes a beautiful centerpiece for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration. Each slice provides a mix of textures and tastes, with an estimated 350 calories per serving. Visit our recipes page for more delightful cake ideas. Learn about the history of Neapolitan desserts on this external source.
Servings and Preparation Time
Serves: 12 slices
Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
ForFlavoring Each Layer:
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for the chocolate layer)
- 1/3 cup strawberry puree + a few drops of pink food coloring (for the strawberry layer)
- 1 teaspoon additional vanilla extract (for the vanilla layer)
For Frosting:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Strawberries and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour mixture and milk alternately, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Divide and Flavor the Batter
- Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.
- For the chocolate layer, mix cocoa powder into one portion of the batter.
- For the strawberry layer, mix in the strawberry puree and pink food coloring until well combined.
- For the vanilla layer, add an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract to the third portion.
Step3: Bake the Layers
- Pour each flavored batter into its respective prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place the chocolate layer on a cake stand and spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Add the vanilla layer and frost it.
- Finally, add the strawberry layer and frost the entire cake.
- Decorate with strawberries and chocolate shavings if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh strawberry puree for a natural flavor and vibrant color.
- Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting.
- For a cleaner finish, chill the cake in the refrigerator for 20 minutes after applying a crumb coat.
- You can substitute almond milk or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
“Feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your taste.”
