Name: Neapolitan Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 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); 1 cup softened butter; 4 cups powdered sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened

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Introduction

The Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla in one harmonious dessert. Perfect for celebrations or a special occasion, this layered cake offers a burst of flavor with every bite.

A slice of layered cake is placed on a white plate with small dark speckles and a gold fork beside it. The cake has five visible layers: the bottom layer is dark brown chocolate cake, followed by a light pink creamy layer, then a pale yellow sponge cake layer, a medium pink cake layer, and a top thick cream layer in pale yellow. The sides are coated with light pink frosting. On top, dollops of frosting in three colors are piped: three pink swirls on the left, three white swirls in the center, and two small dark brown chocolate swirls on the right. The background is a soft white marbled texture with a blurred pink cake in the distance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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 cup softened butter (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
8 oz cream cheese (softened, for frosting)
Melted chocolate (for chocolate layer)
Pureed strawberries (for strawberry layer)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine without overmixing.
Step 4: Divide the batter evenly into three bowls. Fold melted chocolate into one portion for the chocolate layer, pureed strawberries into the second for the strawberry layer, and leave the third plain for the vanilla layer.
Step 5: Pour each flavored batter into its own prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before removing.
Step 6: Prepare the frosting by mixing the softened butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Spread frosting between the layers and cover the entire cake once assembled.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the puree for a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
For extra moistness, brush each cake layer with a simple syrup before frosting.
Substitute the cream cheese frosting with whipped cream frosting for a lighter texture.
If melted chocolate is not available, cocoa powder can be added to the chocolate layer batter for a similar effect.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best texture. Leftover cake can be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

A slice of layered cake sits on a white plate with a silver fork to the right. The cake has five visible layers: the bottom layer is dark brown and moist, followed by a thick white layer, a light pink sponge layer, a thick pale pink cream layer, and a dark brown top sponge layer. The cake is covered with a smooth white frosting around the edges. On top, there are six swirled dollops of frosting, alternating between light pink and white, arranged neatly along the top edge. The background is a soft, blurred white marbled texture giving a clean, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to avoid a runny batter.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or use all butter to make a classic buttercream frosting, though it will change the flavor and texture slightly.