Neapolitan Cake

Whenever I think about Neapolitan Cake, I’m transported back to my childhood birthday parties, where three distinct layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry danced together on my plate. My mom would bake it every year without fail, and the delight on my friends’ faces as they indulged in each colorful slice was priceless. The best part? It was a cake that brought everyone together, just like it does today. Whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy winter celebration, Neapolitan Cake always feels right.

This cake isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a wonderful blend of flavors that complement each other perfectly. It’s ideal for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations. Plus, who can resist a slice that looks as good as it tastes? The way the rich chocolate melds with the sweet strawberry and creamy vanilla makes every bite a little piece of heaven. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it close to your heart, just like I do.

Why You’ll Love "Neapolitan Cake"

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Beautifully layered, adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
• Family-friendly flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Can be made ahead of time, perfect for stress-free entertaining.
• Freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it later without any hassle.
• Minimal ingredients, allowing you to whip it up without a trip to the store!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour - sifted for a lighter cake; you can swap with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - I love using Dutch-processed for a richer flavor.
• 2 cups granulated sugar - use organic sugar for a more natural sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder - ensures your cakes rise nicely; double-check the expiration date for best results.
• ½ teaspoon salt - balances the sweetness; feel free to use kosher salt if that’s what you have on hand.

Wet Ingredients

• 4 large eggs (room temperature) - helps the batter mix together smoothly; if you forget to take them out, just soak them in warm water for a few minutes.
• 1 cup whole milk - gives moisture; you could substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - always go for pure vanilla extract if you can; the flavor is unbeatable.
• 1 cup softened butter (for frosting) - makes the frosting creamy; let it sit out for about an hour to soften or give it a quick zap in the microwave for 10 seconds.
• 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting) - sift it before adding to avoid lumps; can be adjusted based on your sweetness preference.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened, for frosting) - contributes to a lovely tang; you can swap with mascarpone for a different taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your delicious cake!
2. While the oven heats up, you can get everything else ready. Multi-tasking is key, right?

Prepare the Dry Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps eliminate lumps and makes for a smoother batter.
2. Give it a quick whisk to ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined. This little step can make a big difference in texture!

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, beat together the room temperature eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes, and you’ll know it’s ready when it’s pale and airy!
2. Pour in the whole milk and mix just until combined. You don’t want to overdo it here; just a gentle stir will do!

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

1. Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with a scoop of dry, then a splash of milk.
2. Mix gently until just combined. Don’t worry if it looks a little runny; that’s exactly how it should be!

Bake the Cakes

1. Prepare your cake pans by greasing them or lining them with parchment paper. This will help the cakes come out easily!
2. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. You should have three pans lined up, ready for those beautiful layers.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost the Cakes

1. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here!
2. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
4. Once the cakes are completely cool, place the first layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, and top it with the second layer. Repeat with the third layer, frosting the top and sides of the cake.

Variations

• For a fruity twist, add fresh or pureed strawberries to the batter for a vibrant flavor boost.
• Try using almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut to change the flavor profile.
• Top with seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a fresh finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve Neapolitan Cake chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor. You can pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream to elevate its look and taste!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!

Helpful Notes

• If you're short on time, using a store-bought frosting can save the day.
• For a lighter cake, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
• Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness!
• For nut allergies, ensure your vanilla extract and any added toppings are nut-free.
• Feel free to mix in some sprinkles for a festive touch, especially for birthday celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Neapolitan Cake?

Yes, you can definitely freeze Neapolitan Cake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

If you don't have cream cheese on hand or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese for a richer taste. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can work for a lighter option, although it will be less sweet and tangy.

How long does Neapolitan Cake last in the fridge?

Neapolitan Cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh and delicious!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! Neapolitan Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful treat and share it with those you love. Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or simply a Tuesday, this cake is bound to bring smiles all around the table. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your layers or toppings; make it your own! Remember, cooking is all about joy and connection. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own wonderful memories!

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