Neapolitan Cake

This Neapolitan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Its moist texture and vibrant colors make it perfect for any celebration, from birthdays to casual get-togethers. The cake not only looks stunning but also offers a deliciously layered experience that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Three Flavors in One: Enjoy the combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in every slice.
• Moist and Flavorful: This cake stays moist thanks to the buttermilk and butter, ensuring a rich taste.
• Eye-Catching Design: The colorful layers create a visually appealing dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
• Customizable Options: You can personalize flavors or add extra toppings to make it your own.
• Great for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or a family gathering, this cake fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the essential tools needed to create this beautiful Neapolitan Cake. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Three 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Cooling racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the batter easier and ensures a fluffy texture by incorporating air.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for separating batters into different flavors without cross-contamination.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Ingredients

This ice-cream-inspired Neapolitan Cake Recipe is so moist and is bursting with flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry!

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (170g) unsalted butter, softened (holds its shape but dents when pressed)
– 2 cups (400g) sugar
– 4 large eggs, room temperature
– 3 cups (342g) cake flour (spooned into measuring cup and leveled off) If you do not have cake flour, see substitution in Notes below.
– 2 teaspoons (8g) baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon (3g) baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon (3g) salt
– 1 1/4 cups (296g) buttermilk — if you do not have buttermilk, see substitution below
– 1/4 cup (54g) vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons (8g) vanilla extract
– (These are add-ins after batter has been divided into bowls)
– 3 Tablespoons (21g) Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
– 3 Tablespoons (44g) very hot water
– (These are add-ins after batter has been divided into bowls)
– 1/4 cup Strawberry Reduction (Reduced from 1/2 cup strawberry puree – about 5-6 strawberries).
– Strawberry Flavor – Optional—In addition to the strawberry reduction, you can also add 2 teaspoons Strawberry Jell-O powder or 3/4 teaspoon Strawberry extract for an added boost of strawberry flavor.
– 1 cup (240g) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (29g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon (4g) vanilla
– 3 sticks (339g) Unsalted Butter, softened
– 7 cups (805 g) Confectioners Sugar
– 1/3 cup (72g) milk or cream, more if needed
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g) (optional) to cut the sweetness (preferably fine grain or popcorn salt).
– 2 teaspoons (8g) Vanilla Extract
– Pink Coloring Gel – Optional
– 4 oz. Dark Chocolate Chips (we used Ghirardelli) or Semi-Sweet. If using semi-sweet, I like to use closer to 5oz. If using milk chocolate, use closer to 8 oz.
– 4 oz. Heavy Cream (or Whipping Cream)

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: For the Strawberry Reduction

1. Puree approximately 5–6 strawberries in a blender to create about half a cup of strawberry puree.
2. Pour half a cup of the strawberry puree into a small saucepan.
3. Simmer over low-medium heat for about fifteen minutes until reduced to one-fourth cup; stir frequently. Set aside once cooled.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Grease and flour three 8×2 inch round pans, ensuring even heat distribution.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2. Cake flour,
3. Baking powder,
4. Baking soda,
5. Salt
   for thirty seconds. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, combine:
2. Buttermilk,
3. Vegetable oil,
4. Vanilla extract.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In the stand mixer bowl, add softened butter and mix at medium speed until smooth.
2. Gradually add sugar while mixing on medium speed until lightened in color and fluffy—about three to five minutes.

Step 6: Add Eggs

1. Add eggs one at a time while mixing until each yolk disappears.

Step 7: Combine All Mixtures

1. With the mixer on low speed, alternately add dry ingredients mixture and wet ingredients mixture starting with dry—mix just until combined without over-mixing.

Continue following steps similar to those outlined above through baking instructions up until decoration for complete guidance on how to achieve this beautiful Neapolitan Cake!

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Serving Neapolitan Cake is a delightful experience that can elevate any occasion. Its vibrant layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry not only appeal to the eyes but also to the taste buds. Here are some serving suggestions to make your cake even more enjoyable.

For Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: This colorful cake is perfect for birthdays, bringing joy and delight to all ages.
• Anniversaries: A lovely choice for anniversaries, celebrating love with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

With Ice Cream

• A la Mode: Serve a slice of Neapolitan Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
• Flavor Pairing: Try adding a scoop of strawberry or chocolate ice cream to enhance the cake’s flavors.

As a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Buffet: Include slices of Neapolitan Cake on a dessert platter alongside other treats for variety.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve it with freshly brewed coffee or espresso for an exquisite dessert experience.

For Special Occasions

• Tea Time: Perfect for afternoon tea, this cake pairs beautifully with tea or sparkling beverages.
• Holiday Gatherings: Make it a centerpiece at holiday gatherings; its festive colors are sure to impress.

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How to Perfect Neapolitan Cake

To achieve the ultimate Neapolitan Cake, follow these expert tips that ensure each layer is deliciously moist and flavorful.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create an even batter and ensures the cake rises well.
• Do Not Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired lightness.
• Bake in Preheated Oven: Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect rise.
• Cool Layers Properly: Allow each cake layer to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This prevents breaking and helps maintain shape.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter, chocolate, and extracts. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful your cake will be.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add flavor extracts or color gels in the frosting or batter for extra flair!

Best Side Dishes for Neapolitan Cake

Neapolitan Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
2. Whipped Cream Topping: Light whipped cream can enhance the cake’s texture and flavor while adding creaminess.
3. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch when drizzled over each slice.
4. Strawberry Compote: A sweet strawberry compote complements the berry layer in the cake, enhancing its fruity notes.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing adds creaminess that balances out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
6. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee cuts through the richness and heightens the flavor experience of each bite.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds a savory element that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of dessert.
8. Sparkling Water or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like sparkling water or lemonade cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Neapolitan Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can result in a dense cake. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for better mixing.
• Over-Mixing the Batter: Mixing too much develops gluten and makes the cake tough. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Accurate measurements are key to a successful Neapolitan Cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for dry ingredients to ensure precision.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Not allowing your cakes to cool before frosting can lead to melting frosting. Cool cakes completely on a wire rack before decorating.
• Choosing the Wrong Baking Pan: Using pans that are too small can cause overflow, while too large pans may dry out the cake. Stick to the recommended pan size for best results.
• Rushing the Ganache Process: If you don’t let the ganache cool properly, it won’t set correctly for drips. Allow it to cool until it’s at the right consistency before using.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Neapolitan Cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Neapolitan Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cake tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Neapolitan Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Neapolitan Cake:

Can I make Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?

You can bake and frost your cake ahead of time, storing it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

What is the best way to store Neapolitan Cake?

Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it if you prefer colder desserts.

Can I customize flavors in my Neapolitan Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts or fruit purees for unique layers—just keep proportions similar!

Why is my Neapolitan Cake dense?

A dense cake usually results from over-mixing or using cold ingredients. Ensure everything is at room temperature and mix gently.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking?

Grease and flour your pans well before adding batter, and consider using parchment paper for extra insurance against sticking.

Final Thoughts

The Neapolitan Cake is not only visually stunning but also packed with delightful flavors that appeal to everyone. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and decorations based on your preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet treat, this recipe promises satisfaction for all taste buds. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious cake; you’ll love how easy it is to create!