Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone at your next gathering, let me introduce you to the delightful Neapolitan Cake. This cake is not just beautiful; it’s an explosion of flavor with its luscious layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. I love making this cake for birthdays, family get-togethers, or even just to enjoy on a cozy weekend. Each slice is a celebration of taste and color that brings joy to every occasion!

What makes this Neapolitan Cake extra special is how easy it is to put together. You can whip it up with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and it’s sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning cake.
• Perfect for celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday party or an anniversary, this cake adds a festive touch.
• Family-friendly flavors: Chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry are sure to please both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead option: Bake the layers in advance and assemble them later for convenience.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite flavors or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Neapolitan Cake is part of the fun! You’ll find that these simple and wholesome items are easy to come by:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 2 tsp strawberry extract

Variations

One of the best things about this Neapolitan Cake is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Swap the strawberry extract: Use pureed fresh strawberries for an even more vibrant flavor!
• Add nuts: For some crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts into one of the batters.
• Drizzle some caramel: A touch of caramel sauce between the layers could elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cakes will bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pans

Grease three round cake pans well. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the cakes once they’re baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step combines the dry ingredients evenly and helps incorporate air for a lighter texture.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process adds air into the mixture, creating a tender cake.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in each of the eggs, one at a time, followed by adding in the milk. Mixing well here ensures everything blends smoothly.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add in your dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cake light!

Step 7: Divide Batter

Divide your batter into three bowls. Keep one plain for vanilla; mix in the cocoa powder into the second bowl for chocolate; add strawberry extract into the third.

Step 8: Bake!

Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow your cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between layers. This step is crucial as warm cakes could collapse under their own weight.

And there you have it—a beautiful Neapolitan Cake ready to bring smiles at any gathering! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Baking the perfect Neapolitan Cake is all about attention to detail and a little love. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve that stunning, flavorful masterpiece!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps your batter mix more evenly, leading to a light and fluffy texture. Cold ingredients can create a dense cake.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make your cake dry.

• Cool cakes properly: Let your cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set without breaking apart, ensuring neat layers.

• Frost between layers: For added flavor and stability, spread a thin layer of frosting between each cake layer. This keeps everything together while also enhancing the taste experience.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can substitute the strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries for an extra fruity kick or even add a hint of lemon zest for brightness.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Presentation matters when serving your lovely Neapolitan Cake! Whether it’s for a special occasion or an everyday dessert, here are some delightful ways to make it shine on the table.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries on top not only add color but also enhance the fruity flavor profile of the cake.

• Whipped cream: A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream on the side gives an airy touch that complements the rich layers beautifully.

• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an elegant finish that adds both visual appeal and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with Neapolitan Cake, balancing its sweetness while offering a creamy contrast.

• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brings a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cake.

• Coffee or tea: Serving this cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances its flavors and makes for a delightful finishing touch to your dessert experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your guests with an unforgettable Neapolitan Cake that looks as good as it tastes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful layers over multiple days. With the right storage methods, you can savor this mouthwatering dessert again and again!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place it in the fridge where it can last up to a week.
• If you prefer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, ensure it’s completely cooled and wrapped well in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy your Neapolitan Cake warm, slice and microwave each piece for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Neapolitan Cake:

Can I make Neapolitan Cake without strawberry extract?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries for an even fresher flavor. Just ensure that the puree is not too watery to maintain the batter’s consistency.

What makes Neapolitan Cake special?

The unique combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors creates a delightful harmony that appeals to all palates. It’s visually stunning and perfect for any celebration!

How do I store my Neapolitan Cake properly?

Store your Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!

Can I use other flavors instead of chocolate or strawberry?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon. The base recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various flavors while keeping that beautiful layered look.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Neapolitan Cake recipe brings joy and sweetness into your kitchen! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy baking this delightful treat and sharing it with friends and family. Happy baking!