Neapolitan Cake
This Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into a moist and flavorful dessert. Perfect for birthday parties, summer gatherings, or any celebration, this cake not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible. The layers of fluffy cake paired with rich frosting make it an irresistible choice for cake lovers everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile Flavors: Enjoy the classic combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in every bite.
- Moist Texture: This cake stays incredibly moist thanks to the buttermilk and vegetable oil.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
- Eye-Catching Design: The vibrant layers make it a showstopper at any event.
- Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch with love, ensuring a fresh taste that’s hard to beat.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Before you dive into creating your Neapolitan Cake, gather these essential items.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Piping bags (disposable)
- Cake pans (3 x 8-inch)
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy batter.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy separation of the different cake batters.
- Piping bags: Ideal for creating decorative designs with frosting on your finished cake.
Ingredients
This ice-cream-inspired Neapolitan Cake Recipe is so moist and is bursting with flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry!
For the Cake Batter
- 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
- 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
- 1 1/4 cups (296g) buttermilk
- 1/4 cup (54g) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons (8g) vanilla extract
For Flavor Add-ins
- 3 Tablespoons (21g) Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 3 Tablespoons (44g) very hot water
- 1/4 cup Strawberry Reduction
For Frosting and Ganache
- 1 cup (240g) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (29g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon (4g) vanilla
- 3 sticks (339g) Unsalted Butter, softened
- 7 cups (805 g) Confectioners Sugar
- 1/3 cup (72g) milk or cream, more if needed
- Pink Coloring Gel – Optional
How to Make Neapolitan Cake
Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Reduction
Puree approximately 5–6 strawberries in a blender until you have 1/2 cup of strawberry puree. Pour this puree into a small saucepan. Simmer over low-medium heat for about 15 minutes until reduced to 1/4 cup. Stir frequently. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour three 8×2 inch round pans.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for about 30 seconds. Set aside.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl:
1. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well and set aside.
Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar
In your stand mixer:
1. Add softened butter and mix at medium speed until smooth.
2. Gradually add sugar while mixing; continue for about 3 to 5 minutes until lightened in color and fluffy.
(Continue this process according to your recipe steps…)
How to Serve Neapolitan Cake
Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a birthday party, family gathering, or just a special dessert at home, serving this cake creatively can enhance the experience.
Classic Slice
- Serve a classic slice of Neapolitan Cake as is, showcasing all three flavors. The vibrant layers will look beautiful on any plate.
A La Mode
- Pair a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy touch. This combination enhances the cake’s flavors and adds a delightful chill.
With Fresh Berries
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or raspberries. This not only adds color but also complements the strawberry flavor in the cake.
Drizzled with Ganache
- Pour some chocolate ganache over the top of each slice for an indulgent finish. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the cake’s flavors.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage balances the sweetness and enhances the overall tasting experience.
Decorative Plate
- Present on a decorative plate with edible flowers or mint leaves. This adds an elegant touch for special occasions.
How to Perfect Neapolitan Cake
To achieve the ultimate Neapolitan Cake, consider these essential tips that can elevate your baking game.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents excess flour and results in a moist cake.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to dense cake layers rather than light and fluffy ones.
- Cool Layers Completely: Before frosting, allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks. This prevents melting of your frosting and ensures clean edges when decorating.
- Chill Your Tools: Chill mixing bowls and beaters when making whipped cream. Cold tools help stabilize the cream, allowing it to whip up nicely without deflating.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and pure vanilla extract for richer flavors. This elevates every bite of your Neapolitan Cake!
Best Side Dishes for Neapolitan Cake
Pairing side dishes with Neapolitan Cake can enhance its flavor profile while providing variety at your dessert table.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream complements all three flavors in the cake beautifully, enhancing its creaminess.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers an indulgent contrast to the lighter cake, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Panna Cotta: A smooth panna cotta provides a creamy texture that pairs well with fruity desserts like Neapolitan Cake.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add an extra layer of richness and variety to your dessert spread.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti adds texture while being perfect for dipping into coffee or tea alongside your cake.
- Coffee Granita: A refreshing coffee granita serves as a palate cleanser between bites, making it an interesting pairing.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet contrasts nicely with the sweet layers of Neapolitan Cake, refreshing your taste buds after each slice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking a Neapolitan Cake, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final product. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can change the texture and flavor of your cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Failing to use room temperature eggs and butter can result in a dense cake. Take them out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Skipping the Cooling Process: Don’t rush to frost your cake while it’s still warm. Allow it to cool completely to prevent melting your frosting.
- Not Using Quality Cocoa Powder: A good quality cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor. Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Neapolitan Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Neapolitan Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices for about 10-15 seconds until just heated through.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered pan over low heat for approximately 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Neapolitan Cake.
What is Neapolitan Cake?
Neapolitan Cake is a delightful dessert featuring layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, inspired by the classic ice cream combination.
Can I make Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake layers in advance and freeze them until you’re ready to assemble and frost your Neapolitan Cake.
How do I customize my Neapolitan Cake?
Feel free to experiment with different flavors like adding almond or mint extract, or even incorporating fruit purees into the batters for unique twists on this classic recipe.
What is the best way to frost a Neapolitan Cake?
For a beautiful finish, apply a crumb coat first, chill briefly, then add a thicker layer of frosting. Decorate with ganache drips for an elegant touch!
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use dark, semi-sweet, or even milk chocolate chips depending on your preference for sweetness in your Neapolitan Cake.
Final Thoughts
This Neapolitan Cake recipe offers a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Its moist texture and vibrant colors make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or decorations—this cake is as versatile as it is delightful!
Neapolitan Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Neapolitan Cake, a stunning dessert that artfully combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. This moist layered cake is perfect for any celebration, from birthday parties to summer gatherings. Each slice reveals vibrant layers and rich frosting that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you serve it at a special occasion or enjoy it as a sweet treat at home, this ice cream-inspired cake is sure to impress. With every bite, you’ll savor the nostalgic flavors reminiscent of childhood ice cream cones.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 sticks (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400g) sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups (342g) cake flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled off
- 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
- 1 1/4 cups (296g) buttermilk
- 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
- 1 cup (240g) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (29g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon (4g) vanilla
- 3 sticks (339g) Unsalted Butter, softened
- 7 cups (805 g) Confectioners Sugar
- 1/3 cup (72g) milk or cream, more if needed
- Pink Coloring Gel – Optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare strawberry reduction by simmering pureed strawberries until thickened.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract; set aside.
- Cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy in a stand mixer.
- Gradually add eggs and alternate adding dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the batter into three bowls; stir in cocoa powder for one bowl and strawberry reduction for another.
- Bake each layer for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow layers to cool completely before frosting.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
