Colorful Neapolitan Cake
A vibrant and delicious Neapolitan Cake with layers of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
Equipment
- 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Chocolate Layer
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Strawberry Layer
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree or extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract. Divide batter into three bowls.
- To one bowl, add cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated.
- To the second bowl, add strawberry puree or extract and mix well.
- Pour each batter into its prepared pan, smoothing the tops. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes for even stacking.
- Prepare your favorite buttercream frosting. Divide into three portions. Tint one portion pink and another brown, leaving the third white.
- Place the chocolate layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting over it. Top with the vanilla layer, and repeat with the strawberry layer.
- Apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Apply the final layer of frosting evenly on the cake. Decorate with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings.
Serving
- Slice and serve the cake with your choice of beverage. Enjoy the blend of flavors in each bite.
Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use a kitchen scale for even layers. Chill frosting for easier spreading. Level cakes for neat stacking. Ingredient Substitutions: Use almond extract for a nutty flavor. Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. How to Serve: Pair with milk or coffee for enhanced flavors. Serve at celebrations for a stunning centerpiece. Storage & Freshness: Store in fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Make-Ahead Tips: Bake layers a day ahead and assemble on the day of serving.