Name: Neapolitan Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 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; 4 oz melted chocolate (for chocolate layer); 1 cup pureed strawberries (for strawberry layer); 1 cup softened butter; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, to enhance frosting flavor)

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If you’re craving a dessert that’s a delightful celebration of flavors and colors, the Neapolitan Cake is an absolute must-try. This beautiful cake layers the classic trio of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla in a soft, moist sponge that’s lovingly wrapped in creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. The nostalgic combination of flavors not only looks stunning but invites you to savor every bite like a beloved childhood memory come to life. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, the Neapolitan Cake promises to steal the show with its vibrant hues and luscious taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients for this Neapolitan Cake couldn’t be simpler, yet they’re so essential in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and color that define this classic treat. Each one has a role — from the rich cocoa adding depth, to the smooth cream cheese frosting bringing balance and creaminess.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy but tender base needed for the cake layers.
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and beautiful brown color to one layer.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps achieve a moist crumb texture.
1 tbsp baking powder: Gives the cake a nice rise and lightness.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness perfectly.
4 large eggs (room temperature): Bind all ingredients and add richness.
1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture for a soft, tender crumb.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aroma to the vanilla layer.
1 cup softened butter (for frosting): Creates a smooth, luscious frosting texture.
4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
8 oz cream cheese (softened, for frosting): Adds tanginess and richness that perfectly complements the cake layers.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing three round cake pans with grease or parchment paper so your layers come out cleanly. Then, whisk together your dry ingredients — flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt — until everything is nicely combined in one bowl.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend your eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually introduce this mixture to your dry ingredients, mixing just enough to combine without overworking the batter, which keeps the cake tender and light.

Step 3: Divide and Flavor for the Neapolitan Layers

Here’s the fun part that makes this truly a Neapolitan Cake: split your batter into three equal portions. To one portion, blend in melted chocolate to create a rich chocolate layer. To the second, mix in pureed strawberries for a bright, sweet pink layer bursting with natural fruit flavor. Leave the last portion plain for a classic vanilla layer that ties everything together.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour each flavored batter into its corresponding prepared pan. Bake all three layers for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before you start frosting—cool cakes make frosting a breeze and prevent melting.

Step 5: Frost and Assemble Your Neapolitan Cake

Prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing softened butter, powdered sugar, and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Spread a generous layer of frosting between each cake layer to marry the flavors, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out for that picture-perfect finish.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Garnishes

The Neapolitan Cake is stunning on its own but can be elevated further with garnishes like fresh strawberries on top, a light dusting of cocoa powder on the chocolate layer side, or even some finely grated white chocolate for added elegance and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve your Neapolitan Cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to create an indulgent dessert experience. A fresh berry salad also adds a refreshing complement to this rich, creamy cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, try cutting the Neapolitan Cake into mini layered cupcakes or create a trifle by layering crumbled cake, frosting, and fresh fruit in glasses. It’s a creative way to showcase those iconic Neapolitan colors and flavors in bite-sized portions perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Neapolitan Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the cream cheese frosting stays fresh and firm, while the cake layers maintain their moistness.

Freezing

You can freeze the whole Neapolitan Cake or individual slices by tightly wrapping them in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cake remains delicious for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

For warm, fresh-from-the-oven vibes, bring cake slices to room temperature or microwave them briefly (about 15 seconds) covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out—making every bite as heavenly as fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries for the pink layer?

Absolutely! Raspberries or cherries pureed make lovely alternatives, though strawberries are classic for that authentic Neapolitan look and flavor.

Is it possible to make this cake vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that textures and flavors may shift slightly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend works well – just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. The cake might be a bit more delicate but still delicious.

How long does it take to make the Neapolitan Cake from start to finish?

From mixing the batter to frosting the cooled layers, expect about 2 to 3 hours, including baking and cooling time, to create a perfectly assembled Neapolitan Cake.

What’s the best way to achieve bright, distinct layers without colors bleeding?

Allowing each cake layer to cool completely before assembling and frosting helps prevent colors from mixing. Also, applying the frosting carefully and refrigerating the cake sets it nicely for clean slices.

Final Thoughts

Making and sharing a Neapolitan Cake is more than just baking; it’s about creating a joyful splash of color and flavor that brings smiles around the table. Whether it’s your first attempt or a nostalgic favorite, this cake’s charming layers and creamy frosting are sure to become a cherished tradition you’ll want to revisit time and again.

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Neapolitan Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 9 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 12 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This classic Neapolitan Cake is a vibrant and delicious layered dessert featuring three distinct flavors: chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. Each layer is a beautifully baked cake infused with its unique flavor and stacked to create a visually stunning and irresistibly tasty treat, all topped with smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any special occasion, this cake combines rich cocoa, fresh strawberry puree, and classic vanilla in one delightful dessert.

Instructions

Prepare Oven and 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.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. This will help ensure even incorporation when mixed with the dry ingredients.
Make Batter: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
Divide and Flavor Batter: Split the batter evenly into three bowls. Mix melted chocolate into one portion to create the chocolate layer. Stir pureed strawberries into the second bowl for the strawberry layer. Leave the remaining batter plain as the vanilla layer.
Bake Layers: Pour each flavored batter into its greased or parchment-lined cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Then, remove from oven and let the layers cool completely on wire racks.
Prepare Frosting: While the cakes cool, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until light and fluffy. Optionally, mix in vanilla extract to enhance the frosting flavor.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are fully cooled, place the vanilla layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Repeat the process by layering the strawberry layer followed by frosting, and then the chocolate layer. Finish by covering the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it over the top and sides.
Chill and Serve: For best results, refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to let the frosting set and flavors meld. Slice and enjoy this delightful Neapolitan Cake!

Notes

Make sure eggs are at room temperature to help your batter mix more evenly.
Puree fresh or thawed strawberries for the best fresh flavor in the strawberry layer.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake layers light and fluffy.
If desired, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese frosting for added depth of flavor.
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Feel free to garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American