Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, you’ve come to the right place! Neapolitan Cake is one of my all-time favorites, combining the rich flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into three stunning layers. This cake isn’t just a treat for special occasions; it’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or even those busy weeknights when you need a little sweetness in your life. Every slice offers a burst of flavor that brings smiles and happy memories to the table.

What makes this cake truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want to impress your loved ones, this Neapolitan Cake will definitely do the trick. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll feel like a baking pro in no time!
• Family-friendly: The combination of flavors makes it appealing to kids and adults alike—everyone loves a good slice!
• Make-ahead option: You can bake the layers ahead of time and assemble them when you’re ready.
• Endless flavor possibilities: Mix up the extracts or add fresh fruits for a unique twist each time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will help create this delicious Neapolitan Cake. You probably have most of these in your kitchen 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

One of the best things about this Neapolitan Cake is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up and let your creativity shine with these fun variations:

• Swap the extracts: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for an even fresher taste.
• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts into any layer for added texture.
• Drizzle with caramel: For extra sweetness, drizzle caramel sauce between layers before stacking.
• Change up the fruits: Experiment with different fruit extracts or purees, like raspberry or blueberry.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing three round cake pans. This step ensures that your cakes won’t stick and will come out beautifully shaped!

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Setting aside these dry ingredients helps ensure they are evenly distributed throughout your batter later.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates air pockets that help your cake rise beautifully!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the milk. Gradually add the dry mixture until just combined. Taking care not to overmix helps keep your cake tender.

Step 5: Divide Your Batter

Divide the batter into three bowls: leave one plain for vanilla; mix cocoa powder into the second bowl for chocolate; add strawberry extract to the third. This colorful division sets up our delightful layers!

Step 6: Bake Your 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 Before Stacking

Allow cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between layers. Patience here pays off—no one likes a messy cake!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Neapolitan Cake! Each bite is sure to bring joy and delight to everyone who tries it. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Baking a Neapolitan Cake can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your eggs and milk to come to room temperature helps create a well-emulsified batter, resulting in a moist and fluffy cake.

• Measure flour correctly: Scoop the flour into your measuring cup with a spoon and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing, which can lead to a dense cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can result in a tough texture, so gentle folding is key!

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cakes at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!

• Cool completely before frosting: Ensuring your cakes are completely cool will prevent the frosting from melting and help achieve smooth layers.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Serving your Neapolitan Cake beautifully can enhance its visual appeal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: Placing whole strawberries or raspberries on top adds color and freshness, complementing the strawberry layer beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream provides an airy texture that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of chocolate and vanilla.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the layers of cake, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake. Consider using seasonal fruits for added variety.
• Coffee or herbal tea: These beverages make excellent companions for dessert, enhancing flavors while providing a comforting finish to your meal.
• Dark chocolate sauce: Drizzling dark chocolate sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Neapolitan Cake will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious homemade dessert throughout the week. With proper storage, you can savor its delightful flavors even days after baking!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each layer separately in plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer shelf life, refrigerate the cake, which will keep it fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and type of cake for easy identification.
• Freeze layers for up to 2 months; they will still taste great when defrosted!
• To thaw, place the wrapped layers in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the cake layers and place them on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Serve immediately with your choice of frosting or toppings.

FAQs

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

Can I make a Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it properly as mentioned above, and it will taste just as delicious.

What variations can I try with Neapolitan Cake?

You can experiment by swapping strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries or adding chopped nuts between the layers for extra texture.

How do I ensure my Neapolitan Cake layers are even?

To achieve evenly layered cakes, measure out the batter using a kitchen scale or measuring cups before pouring into pans. This ensures uniformity across all three layers.

Can I use different flavors for my Neapolitan Cake?

Yes! While traditional flavors are chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, feel free to get creative with other flavors like lemon, almond, or coffee.

What should I serve with my Neapolitan Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or fresh berries on top. You could also drizzle chocolate sauce or serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Neapolitan Cake recipe has inspired you to whip up something truly special! The beautiful combination of flavors makes it not just a treat but also a delightful centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating or just enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking—enjoy every slice!