If you’re looking for a cake that brings a little bit of everything to the table, the Neapolitan Cake is the perfect choice. With layers of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate, this cake is a delightful mix of flavors that pleases everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or simply indulging in a treat, this cake stands out as a showstopper. Here’s how to create a Neapolitan Cake that’s not only delicious but also looks amazing.
Neapolitan Cake Flavors
The charm of a Neapolitan Cake lies in its layers, each offering a different flavor. This cake captures the essence of three classic favorites in one beautiful dessert. You start with a versatile vanilla cake batter. The secret to a soft, tender cake is using room-temperature butter. Cream the butter with sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step creates the foundation for the cake’s airy texture and is crucial for a successful bake.
Once the batter is ready, you’ll divide it into three equal portions. One portion remains vanilla, which acts as the base layer. For the strawberry layer, mix in strawberry extract and a bit of pink food coloring. This adds both flavor and a vibrant color. The chocolate layer is just as simple—stir in cocoa powder and a splash of milk to create a rich, chocolatey batter. Each layer is distinct, yet they come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Perfecting the Baking Process
Before baking, it’s important to prepare your cake pans properly. Grease the pans thoroughly and line them with parchment paper. This ensures that the cakes release easily after baking and prevents any sticking. Pour each portion of batter into its respective pan, smoothing the tops to ensure even layers.
Bake the cakes in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time is typically around 30 minutes, but it can vary depending on your oven. Keep a close eye on the cakes during the last few minutes. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before you start assembling the cake. This cooling step is essential; frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off, leading to a messy presentation.
Crafting a Creamy Vanilla Buttercream
The buttercream frosting is what ties this cake together. It’s sweet, smooth, and easy to work with, making it perfect for frosting and decorating. Start by beating room-temperature butter until it’s creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the frosting becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve the desired consistency. You want the frosting to be smooth and spreadable, yet firm enough to hold its shape when applied to the cake.
Assembling Your Neapolitan Cake
Assembling the cake is where the fun begins. Start with the chocolate layer at the bottom. Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. This layer of frosting adds flavor and helps the layers stick together. Next, place the vanilla layer on top of the chocolate layer. Again, spread a thick layer of buttercream over the vanilla layer. Finally, add the strawberry layer to the top.
Once all three layers are stacked, it’s time to frost the outside of the cake. Use the remaining buttercream to cover the top and sides of the cake. To achieve a smooth finish, use a cake scraper or a spatula. For an extra-smooth finish, dip the spatula in hot water and quickly dry it before smoothing the frosting. This technique helps to eliminate any small imperfections and gives your cake a professional look.
Neapolitan Cake Recipe Decoration
The final step is decorating the cake. This is your chance to get creative and add your personal touch. Cover the top of the cake with an assortment of candies and chocolates. Popular choices include pieces of milk chocolate, white chocolate, Smarties, mini M&M’s, and Freckles. The colorful candy not only adds visual appeal but also provides an extra layer of flavor and texture.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a chocolate ganache drip around the edges of the cake. This adds a dramatic effect and enhances the overall presentation. To make a ganache, simply melt chocolate with a bit of cream and allow it to cool slightly before drizzling it over the edge of the cake.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. This ensures even mixing and a better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients, mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and ensures a clean, smooth finish.
- Smooth Sides: Use a cake scraper for smooth sides on your cake. It’s an easy tool that makes your cake look polished and professional.
- Get Creative with Decoration: The decoration is where you can let your creativity shine. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different candies and chocolates to create a unique look.
If you enjoyed the Neapolitan Cake, you’ll love these other treats. Try our Maple Brown Sugar Cookies for a warm, sweet flavor. If you’re craving something fruity, our Cherry Hand Pies are perfect. For a rich chocolatey option, check out our Coconut Flour Brownies. These recipes are great for any time you want something delicious!
Creating a Neapolitan Cake is a rewarding experience. The combination of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate layers, paired with creamy buttercream frosting, makes for a cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. By following these steps, you’ll be able to make a Neapolitan Cake that not only looks professional but also tastes incredible. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!
Neapolitan Cake Recipe: A Triple-Layer Delight You Can’t Resist!
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
Vanilla Cake
230 grams (1 cup or 2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature200 grams (1 cup) caster sugar or granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs, room temperature
315 grams (2 and 1/4 cups) plain flour or all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
240 ml (1 cup) full-fat or whole milk
2 tablespoons full-fat sour cream
- Strawberry Cake
1 teaspoon strawberry extract
Pink food gel or food coloring
- Chocolate Cake
1 tablespoon cocoa powder, sifted
1 tablespoon milk
- Vanilla Buttercream
230 grams (1 cup or 2 sticks) butter, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
625 grams (5 cups) icing sugar or powdered sugar
3–4 tablespoons full-fat or whole milk, room temperature
- To Decorate
Assorted candy and chocolate* (e.g., pieces of milk chocolate, white chocolate, Smarties, mini M&M’s, and Freckles)
Directions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Grease and line three 6-inch round baking pans. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) for a standard oven or 160°C (320°F) for a fan-forced oven.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, sugar, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and sour cream, and beat on a low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. - Divide and Flavor the Batter: Divide the batter evenly into three portions.
Strawberry Layer: Add the strawberry extract and a few drops of pink food gel to one portion, and stir until fully combined.
Chocolate Layer: Add the cocoa powder and extra milk to another portion, and stir until smooth.
Vanilla Layer: Leave the final portion as it is. - Bake the Layers: Pour each batter into the prepared cake tins. Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Carefully remove the cakes from the oven and set them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Vanilla Buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract. Gradually add the icing sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the milk as needed to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife or a cake trimmer to level the tops of the cakes if needed.
Place one cake layer on a cake board or serving plate. Cover the top with a layer of buttercream. Add the second cake layer on top and cover it with more buttercream. Repeat with the third cake layer.
Cover the entire cake, including the top and sides, with the remaining buttercream. Use a cake scraper to smooth the sides and remove any excess frosting. - Decorate the Cake: Finish by covering the top of the cake with your favorite candies and chocolates.
Notes
- For decorating, feel free to get creative with the candies and chocolates you use. Pieces of milk chocolate, white chocolate, Smarties, mini M&M’s, and Freckles work beautifully.