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Neapolitan Cake

Neapolitan Cake
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This Neapolitan Cake recipe is a delightful and nostalgic dessert featuring three distinct layers of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavors. Soft, spongy, and creamy, it captures the classic ice cream trio in a beautiful layered cake perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or special treat-yourself moments. Made with simple pantry staples and easy-to-follow steps, this cake offers a colorful showstopping presentation and is customizable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder (ensure gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free option)
  • 1 cup milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free option)
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon strawberry extract or ¼ cup strawberry puree

Frosting

  • Whipped cream or buttercream frosting (or chocolate ganache as an alternative)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: Sift together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend) and baking powder to ensure an even rise. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with milk, mixing gently until you have a smooth batter.
  2. Divide and Flavor: Evenly separate the batter into three bowls. To the first bowl, add cocoa powder for the chocolate layer and stir until combined. Add strawberry extract or puree to the second bowl for the strawberry layer, mixing well. Add vanilla extract to the third bowl for the vanilla layer and stir gently until smooth and evenly colored.
  3. Bake the Layers: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three identical cake pans. Pour each flavored batter into its own pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow layers to cool completely before assembling.
  4. Assemble and Frost: Place the cooled chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream or buttercream frosting over the top. Add the strawberry layer and repeat with frosting. Finish by placing the vanilla layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting for a smooth and attractive finish.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least one hour to firm up the frosting and allow flavors to meld. This will help achieve clean slices and enhance the dessert’s refreshing taste. Garnish as desired and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use identical pans and weigh batter portions to ensure even layer thickness.
  • Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding icing.
  • Enhance extracts with fresh berries or high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor.
  • Chilling the colored batters briefly before baking can help keep layers distinct.
  • For best texture, use eggs and butter at room temperature.
  • Jam can be used as a lighter alternative to frosting between layers.
  • Store leftover cake covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze layers wrapped tightly to extend storage to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge before assembling.
  • Best served chilled; if preferred warm, bring to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Neapolitan cake, layered cake, chocolate cake, strawberry cake, vanilla cake, easy dessert, gluten-free cake, party cake, homemade cake

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/neapolitan-cake/