Print

Neapolitan Cake Recipe

Neapolitan Cake Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 14 reviews

This Neapolitan Cake is a delightful three-layered treat featuring classic chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavors. Each layer is lovingly baked and then stacked with a rich cream cheese frosting that ties the cake together with creamy sweetness. Perfect for celebrations or whenever you’re craving a festive, multi-flavored dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Layers

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup melted chocolate (for chocolate layer)
  • 1/2 cup pureed strawberries (for strawberry layer)

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1 cup softened butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for frosting flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth and blended.
  4. Make Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix which can toughen the cake.
  5. Divide and Flavor Batters: Divide the batter equally into three separate bowls. Mix melted chocolate into one portion for the chocolate layer. Stir pureed strawberries into the second portion for the strawberry layer. Leave the last portion plain for the vanilla layer.
  6. Bake: Pour each flavored batter into its respective prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing.
  7. Prepare Frosting: Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until fluffy. Optionally add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  8. Assemble Cake: Place the chocolate layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top. Repeat with the strawberry layer, then the vanilla layer. Use remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the assembled cake.
  9. Chill and Serve: For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to let the frosting set and flavors meld. Slice and enjoy your elegant Neapolitan Cake!

Notes

  • Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help the batter blend better and achieve a lighter texture.
  • For a stronger strawberry flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries pureed without added sugar.
  • If melted chocolate is too thick, gently warm it to a pourable consistency before mixing.
  • Cooling the cake layers completely before frosting prevents the frosting from melting.
  • This cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: Neapolitan cake, layered cake, chocolate cake, strawberry cake, vanilla cake, cream cheese frosting, three-layer cake, holiday dessert, party cake

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/neapolitan-cake-recipe/