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Neapolitan Cake Recipe

4.5 from 149 reviews

A classic Neapolitan Cake featuring three distinct layers of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry cake, beautifully stacked and frosted for a delightful and colorful dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Vanilla Cake Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup whole milk

Chocolate Cake Batter

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup whole milk

Strawberry Cake Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup pureed strawberries
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole milk

Frosting

  • 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
  • 5 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 46 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cake Batters: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three separate bowls for each cake batter. For the vanilla and chocolate batters, cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk. For the strawberry batter, mix pureed strawberries into the base batter along with vanilla and milk.
  2. Bake Cake Layers: Divide each batter evenly into greased and floured 8-inch round cake pans (three pans). Bake each layer in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake layers cool completely on wire racks.
  3. Stack and Frost: Place the chocolate cake layer on the serving plate, spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the vanilla cake layer on top and frost again. Finally, place the strawberry cake layer on top and frost the entire cake smoothly, covering all sides. Chill briefly if needed to set the frosting.
  4. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice the cake into even pieces. Serve at room temperature and enjoy the rich contrast of flavors in every bite.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.
  • You can substitute fresh strawberries with strawberry extract if fresh berries are not available.
  • For a lighter frosting, reduce butter by 1/2 cup and add extra powdered sugar.
  • Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Neapolitan cake, vanilla cake, chocolate cake, strawberry cake, layered cake, baked dessert