Neapolitan Cake

The Neapolitan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a vibrant layered presentation. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, this cake offers a unique twist on traditional flavors. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and fruity strawberry makes each slice a colorful treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Stunning Presentation: The layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry make this cake visually appealing.
• Flavor Variety: Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors, perfect for those who can’t choose just one.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a family gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit.
• Versatile: You can customize the flavors and colors to suit any event theme or personal preference.
• Impressive Yet Manageable: Despite its beautiful layers, making the Neapolitan Cake is straightforward enough for bakers of all skill levels.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Neapolitan Cake, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pans (8-inch)
• Cooling racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly and aerated for a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to separate ingredients easily during preparation.
• Baking pans: The right size ensures even baking for each layer of the Neapolitan Cake.

Ingredients

For this delicious Neapolitan Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For Chocolate Cake Layer

• 1 1/4 cups (150 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (59 g) good cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon (4 g) baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.8 g) kosher salt
• 1/2 cup (120 g) buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup (54.5 g) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.1 g) pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (118.3 g) hot water

For Vanilla Cake Layer

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter (slightly cold)
• 3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar (measured and then sifted)
• 1 teaspoons (4.2 g) pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons (57.75 g) heavy cream

For Strawberry Cake Layer

• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4 tablespoons (54.5 g) canola oil
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups (172.5 g) cake flour
• 1 teaspoon (4 g) baking powder
• 1/2 cup (120 g) buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon (4.2 g) pure vanilla extract

For Strawberry Buttercream

• 3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar (measured and then sifted)
• 3 tablespoons (43.31 g) heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons (54.5 g) vegetable or canola oil

Additional Ingredients for Flavoring

• Various amounts of freeze-dried strawberries for flavoring in the strawberry components.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans

Grease and line three 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and hot water until combined.
4. Gradually add wet ingredients into dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Cake Layer

Follow similar steps by mixing together all ingredients specific to the vanilla layer in another bowl and bake as outlined above.

Step 4: Create the Strawberry Cake Layer

Mix together all specified ingredients for the strawberry layer following previous methods; bake accordingly.

Step 5: Prepare Frostings

While cakes cool down:
– Whip up chocolate buttercream using melted chocolate combined with butter and powdered sugar.
– Repeat with vanilla buttercream using vanilla extract instead of chocolate.
– Finally make strawberry buttercream incorporating strawberry puree.

Step 6: Assemble Your Neapolitan Cake

Once cooled completely:
– Place one chocolate layer on your serving platter; spread with chocolate frosting.
– Add the vanilla layer on top followed by vanilla frosting.
– Finish with the strawberry layer topped with strawberry frosting.

Enjoy slicing into this stunning Neapolitan Cake, where every slice reveals layers of deliciousness!

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a birthday, celebration, or just a special dessert, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Classic Slices

• Serve generous slices of the Neapolitan Cake on dessert plates for an elegant presentation. Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Accompany each slice with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. This enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing coolness.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top each slice with fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries. The vibrant colors and natural sweetness complement the cake beautifully.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over each slice before serving. This adds an extra layer of richness and visual appeal to your dessert.

Coffee or Tea Service

• Offer a cup of coffee or tea alongside the Neapolitan Cake. The warm beverages balance the sweetness and provide a comforting experience.

How to Perfect Neapolitan Cake

To achieve the best results with your Neapolitan Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter that rises well.
• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and powdered sugar prevents lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the cake.
• Cool cakes completely: Allow each layer to cool fully before frosting. This prevents melting and helps maintain sharp edges.
• Level the cake layers: Use a serrated knife to trim any domed tops off the cakes for even stacking and easier frosting.
• Chill between layers: After stacking, refrigerate the cake briefly before applying the final layer of frosting. This helps set everything in place.

Best Side Dishes for Neapolitan Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Neapolitan Cake can enhance its flavors and make for a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a fluffy texture that complements every slice wonderfully.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats echo the flavors found in Neapolitan Cake while adding an indulgent touch.
4. Vanilla Custard: A creamy custard serves as a luxurious pairing, enriching each bite of cake.
5. Espresso Shots: A small shot of espresso provides a bold contrast that enhances the sweetness of the cake.
6. Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor pairs well with all three components of the cake, adding an interesting twist to your dessert table.
7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over both the cake and side dishes introduces another layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance sweet flavors, providing a savory counterpoint to your dessert feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Neapolitan Cake can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour and sugar.

• Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter and better texture.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined to keep it light and airy.

• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting the cake cool completely before frosting is crucial. This prevents melting your frosting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep the Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container.
• It can stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Neapolitan Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Neapolitan Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Neapolitan Cake:

What is a Neapolitan Cake?

A Neapolitan Cake features layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, each complemented by its respective buttercream frosting.

How do I customize my Neapolitan Cake?

You can adjust flavors by using different extracts or fruit purees. Adding nuts or sprinkles can also enhance texture and appearance.

Can I make Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve it.

What are some serving suggestions for Neapolitan Cake?

Pair it with fresh berries or serve alongside ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a nice touch as well!

Final Thoughts

The Neapolitan Cake is an elegant dessert that combines three classic flavors into one. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily, making it perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to cozy family gatherings. Give this recipe a try and indulge in its delightful layers!