Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings joy and smiles to every gathering, the Neapolitan Cake is just the recipe you need! This delightful treat is a colorful medley of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, making it not only beautiful but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family get-together, or simply want to indulge in something sweet on a cozy weekend, this cake is sure to impress. Each slice is like a little party for your taste buds!

What I love most about this Neapolitan Cake is its versatility. You can whip it up for any occasion and feel like a superstar baker, even if you’re short on time. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the fun flavors and vibrant colors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthdays, anniversaries, or just because—this cake fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake it in advance and store it in the fridge; it tastes even better after chilling!
• Customizable Layers: Feel free to experiment with flavors or add your favorite toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this gorgeous Neapolitan Cake requires simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 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 recipe is its flexibility! Don’t hesitate to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the extract: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for an even more natural flavor.
• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts between the layers for added texture and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
• Drizzle some sauce: Consider drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce between the layers for an extra touch of sweetness.

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 ensures your cakes won’t stick when it’s time to remove them from the pans!

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps them incorporate evenly into your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it adds air into the mix, giving your cake that lovely rise!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk. Gradually add your dry ingredients until just combined. This method keeps your batter smooth without overmixing.

Step 5: Divide the Batter

Divide your batter into three bowls: leave one plain for vanilla; mix cocoa powder into the second for chocolate; add strawberry extract to the third. This colorful separation will create those stunning layers everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake Your Cakes

Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Watching them bake is half the fun as your kitchen fills with delicious aromas!

Step 7: Cool and Stack

Allow cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between layers. Patience here pays off; cooling ensures that your cakes hold their shape when you serve them.

And there you have it—the joy of making a Neapolitan Cake! Enjoy every moment of baking—and most importantly—every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Baking a cake can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these tips to ensure your Neapolitan Cake turns out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your eggs and milk to reach room temperature helps the batter mix more evenly, leading to a fluffier cake.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents the cake from becoming dense or dry due to over-measured flour.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes about 5 minutes before the suggested time. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready!

• Cool cakes completely before frosting: If you frost warm cakes, the frosting will melt and slide off. Cooling them allows for better frosting adherence and presentation.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap out extracts or add zest from citrus fruits! This gives your cake a unique twist and keeps things exciting for your taste buds.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Presenting your Neapolitan Cake beautifully can enhance both its appeal and taste. Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: Top your cake with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors.

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy touch that pairs wonderfully with all three layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the cake, providing a refreshing balance with each bite.

• Fruit salad: A simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that brightens up the dessert table and complements the sweetness of the cake.

• Coffee or tea: Serving your Neapolitan Cake alongside freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances its indulgence while providing a nice contrast to its sweetness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to create an unforgettable experience around your Neapolitan Cake! Enjoy every slice and share the love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in its delightful flavors any time! Plus, it keeps well, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or simply enjoying throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container, where it will last up to a week.
• Keep each layer separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking if you’re storing them individually.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can also freeze the whole cake by wrapping it securely and placing it in the freezer; it will keep for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices on low power for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious Neapolitan Cake.

Can I customize the flavors of my Neapolitan Cake?

Absolutely! While traditional Neapolitan flavors are chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, feel free to experiment with other extracts or purees. Almond extract or lemon zest can add a unique twist!

How should I store my Neapolitan Cake?

Store your Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

What is the best way to frost my Neapolitan Cake?

A simple buttercream frosting works wonderfully! You can make three separate batches—one flavored with chocolate, one vanilla, and one strawberry—to match each layer’s flavor profile.

Can I make the Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the layers ahead of time and store them individually wrapped. Frost when you’re ready to serve for fresh taste and presentation.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this beautiful Neapolitan Cake as much as I do! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that brings joy and celebration to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging solo with a cup of coffee, each slice is a reminder of life’s sweet moments. Happy baking!