Neapolitan Cake

This Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a moist, ice-cream-inspired cake. Perfect for birthday parties, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence, this cake offers a vibrant and colorful presentation that will impress any guest. With its layered structure and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy the classic trio of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in every slice.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a family gathering, this cake is sure to be the star.
• Moist and Delicious: Each layer is incredibly moist, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
• Showstopper Presentation: The beautiful layers create an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite fruits or sprinkles to personalize it further!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this scrumptious Neapolitan Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Piping bags and tips (for decoration)
• 8×2 inch round cake pans (3)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly mixing the ingredients.
• Piping bags and tips: Essential for decorating your cake beautifully with buttercream frosting.
• Mixing bowls: Different sizes allow for organized preparation of each component of the cake.

Ingredients

This ice-cream-inspired Neapolitan Cake Recipe is so moist and is bursting with flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry!

• 1 1/2 sticks (170g) unsalted butter, softened (holds its shape but dents when pressed)
• 2 cups (400g) sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups (342g) cake flour (spooned into measuring cup and leveled off). If you do not have cake flour, see substitution in Notes below.
• 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (3g) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
• 1 1/4 cups (296g) buttermilk. If you do not have buttermilk, see substitution below.
• 1/4 cup (54g) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons (8g) vanilla extract
• 3 Tablespoons (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 Tablespoons (44g) very hot water
• 1/4 cup strawberry reduction (reduced from 1/2 cup strawberry puree – about 5-6 strawberries).
• Strawberry Flavor – Optional – In addition to the strawberry reduction, add either 2 teaspoons of Strawberry Jell-O powder or 3/4 teaspoon of strawberry extract for an extra boost of flavor.
• 1 cup (240g) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (29g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon (4g) vanilla extract
• 3 sticks (339g) unsalted butter, softened
• 7 cups (805 g) confectioners sugar
• 1/3 cup (72g) milk or cream, more if needed
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g), preferably fine grain or popcorn salt to cut sweetness.
• Optional: Pink Coloring Gel
• 4 oz. dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet. For milk chocolate use closer to 8 oz.
• 4 oz. heavy cream or whipping cream

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Reduction

• Puree approximately 5–6 strawberries in a blender until you have about half a cup of strawberry puree.
• Pour half a cup of this puree into a small saucepan and simmer over low-medium heat for about fifteen minutes until it reduces to one-fourth cup. Stir frequently. Allow cooling.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour three 8×2 inch round pans.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for thirty seconds. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

• In another bowl, mix together buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Set aside.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In your stand mixer bowl, add softened butter. Mix at medium speed until smooth.
• Gradually add sugar while continuing to mix at medium speed for three to five minutes until lightened in color and fluffy.

Step 6: Add Eggs

• Add room temperature eggs one at a time while mixing until each yolk disappears completely.

Step 7: Combine Dry & Wet Mixtures

• With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients mixture followed by the buttermilk mixture—beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently; avoid over-mixing.

(Continue with subsequent steps as described in the recipe…)

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors make it versatile for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice of cake is always a winner. Serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor—chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry—to complement the cake’s layers and create an indulgent dessert.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish slices with fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.

Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an extra layer of decadence that pairs beautifully with the chocolate portion of the cake.

Fruit Compote

• Top with a homemade fruit compote, such as strawberry or mixed berry, to enhance the fruity flavors and add moisture.

Whipped Cream Clouds

• Add fluffy clouds of whipped cream on the side or on top for a light and airy touch that complements the moist texture of the cake.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Neapolitan Cake

Creating a perfect Neapolitan Cake involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better blending and fluffiness.
• Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cake layers caused by too much flour.
• Don’t overmix – Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to prevent tough cake layers.
• Bake evenly – Rotate your pans halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and browning for all three layers.
• Cool completely – Allow each layer to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting your frosting.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Best Side Dishes for Neapolitan Cake

Pairing side dishes with Neapolitan Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Ice Cream Sundae – Create a mini sundae bar featuring different toppings like nuts, sprinkles, and syrups for fun customization.
2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers freshness that balances the richness of the cake.
3. Chocolate Mousse – Serve a small portion of chocolate mousse alongside for an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor.
4. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy contrast and are easy for guests to enjoy alongside their slice of Neapolitan Cake.
5. Coffee or Espresso – Brewed coffee or espresso pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness while enhancing flavor notes in the cake.
6. Milkshake – A rich milkshake made from vanilla ice cream can be served as a drinkable dessert option that matches nicely with the cake’s flavors.
7. Panna Cotta – This creamy Italian dessert can be flavored with vanilla or fruit, making it an exquisite pairing with Neapolitan Cake.
8. Candied Nuts – Offer candied pecans or almonds as crunchy bites that add texture and contrast against the soft layers of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Neapolitan Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can result in a batter that doesn’t mix well. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one. Mix just until combined to avoid this mistake.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down and lead to too much flour. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.

• Skipping the cooling step: Trying to frost a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Allow your layers to cool completely before decorating.

• Using stale baking powder or soda: Expired leavening agents can prevent your cake from rising properly. Always check expiration dates before use.

• Not tasting the batters: Each layer should have its distinct flavor. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavors as needed before baking.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Neapolitan Cake

• Wrap individual slices or whole layers in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Neapolitan Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat covered with a lid, warming them gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Neapolitan Cake?

Neapolitan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines three distinct flavors—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry—mirroring the classic ice cream flavor combination.

How do I make Neapolitan Cake from scratch?

You can create Neapolitan Cake by making separate batters for each flavor, layering them in round cake pans, and then frosting with a creamy buttercream.

Can I customize my Neapolitan Cake?

Absolutely! You can alter the flavors by using different extracts or adding fruit purees for unique variations beyond the classic trio.

How long does Neapolitan Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator or about 3 months when frozen.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, you can certainly use store-bought frosting if you’re short on time, but homemade frosting adds an extra touch of flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Neapolitan Cake recipe is not only visually stunning but also offers a deliciously nostalgic taste that appeals to everyone. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and decorations based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try making this delightful dessert at home; your friends and family will love it!