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Neapolitan Cake Recipe

Neapolitan Cake Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 17 reviews

This Neapolitan Cake is a delightful three-layer cake featuring classic flavors of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. Each layer has a distinct flavor and vibrant color, all beautifully stacked and frosted with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or as a special treat, this cake combines simple ingredients with an elegant presentation to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Layers

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup melted chocolate (for chocolate layer)
  • 1/2 cup pureed strawberries (for strawberry layer)

Frosting

  • 1 cup softened butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your layers have even texture and flavor.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Slowly add this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently to avoid overmixing and keep the cake light.
  4. Divide and Flavor the Batter: Evenly split the batter into three bowls. Stir melted chocolate into one portion for the chocolate layer. Add pureed strawberries into the second portion to create the strawberry layer. Leave the third portion plain for the vanilla layer.
  5. Bake the Layers: Pour each flavored batter into its respective prepared cake pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cakes to cool completely in their pans before removing.
  6. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt together until smooth and fluffy. This tangy frosting complements the layered cake perfectly.
  7. Assemble the Cake: Once cooled, place the vanilla cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the strawberry layer and frost again. Top with the chocolate layer and frost the entire cake evenly for a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help the batter mix smoothly.
  • Puree fresh or thawed strawberries for the best flavor in the strawberry layer.
  • If you prefer, substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a slight variation.
  • For a more vivid strawberry flavor, add a few drops of natural red food coloring.
  • Refrigerate the assembled cake for an hour before serving to allow frosting to set.
  • The cake is best served within 2-3 days and should be stored covered in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: Neapolitan cake, three-layer cake, chocolate cake, strawberry cake, vanilla cake, cream cheese frosting, layered dessert

Find it online: https://platedandproud.com/neapolitan-cake-recipe/