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Neapolitan Cake

Neapolitan Cake
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Neapolitan Cake is a visually stunning and delicious dessert featuring three distinct layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors. Perfectly balanced with moist cake layers and creamy frosting, this cake offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that delight the palate and impress at any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cocoa powder (for chocolate layer)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract (for vanilla layer)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries or strawberry puree (for strawberry layer)
  • Buttercream or whipped frosting, about 4 cups

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually mix in the flour and milk until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  2. Flavor Each Layer: Divide the batter into three equal portions. In the first portion, mix in the cocoa powder thoroughly to create the chocolate batter. In the second portion, gently fold in the vanilla extract. In the third portion, add fresh strawberry puree or finely chopped strawberries to infuse the fruity flavor.
  3. Bake the Layers: Pour each flavored batter separately into lined cake pans or use foil separators to divide one pan into thirds. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool and Prepare Frosting: Allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks. Meanwhile, whip up your choice of classic buttercream or whipped frosting to a smooth and creamy consistency suitable for layering.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Place the chocolate layer on your serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the vanilla cake layer, followed by another layer of frosting. Finish with the strawberry layer topped with frosting. Smooth the outside if desired for a polished finish or leave textured for a rustic look.
  6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least one hour to let the layers set and flavors meld. Slice and enjoy your vibrant Neapolitan Cake chilled for the best taste and presentation.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smooth batter and even baking.
  • Mix batter just until combined to keep the cake tender and light.
  • Divide batter evenly using a scale or measuring cups to ensure balanced layers.
  • Cool cake layers completely before applying frosting to prevent melting and uneven coverage.
  • Use fresh strawberries for authentic flavor and brightness in the strawberry layer.
  • Chill the cake before slicing to help it hold shape and allow easy, clean cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: Neapolitan cake, chocolate cake, vanilla cake, strawberry cake, layered cake, dessert, three-flavor cake, buttercream frosting

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/neapolitan-cake/