Description
Bringing together the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, Neapolitan Cake is a stunning dessert perfect for any celebration. Each colorful layer is moist, fluffy, and packed with nostalgic flavors inspired by Neapolitan ice cream. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Layers:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup cocoa powder (for chocolate layer)
- ½ cup strawberry puree or extract (for strawberry layer)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Buttercream Frosting:
- 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Food coloring (pink for strawberry, brown for chocolate)
Ganache (Optional):
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Layers:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round pans. Line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, and milk until smooth. Divide batter into three equal parts.
- For the vanilla layer: Pour one part into a prepared pan.
- For the chocolate layer: Add cocoa powder to the second part, mix well, and pour into another pan.
- For the strawberry layer: Stir in strawberry puree or extract to the third part, mix, and pour into the final pan.
- Bake each layer for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool layers completely.
- Make Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla and heavy cream. Divide into three portions and tint as desired.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Level cake layers with a serrated knife if needed.
- Place the vanilla layer on a cake stand. Spread an even layer of vanilla buttercream.
- Stack the chocolate layer next, spreading chocolate buttercream.
- Add the strawberry layer on top and frost with strawberry buttercream.
- Decorate (Optional):
- Drizzle ganache over the cake for a glossy finish. Garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings.
- Chill and Serve:
- Chill for 30 minutes to set. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Cool the Cake Layers Completely: Ensure the cake layers are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting and the layers from sliding.
- Level the Layers for Stability: Trim the tops of each cake layer with a serrated knife to create a flat surface. This ensures even stacking and a professional-looking finish.
- Use a Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat) around the cake to trap crumbs. Chill the cake for 15-20 minutes before applying the final layer of frosting for a smooth, clean finish.
- Prep Time: 30 MIN
- Cook Time: 25 MIN