Name: Indulge in Decadent Neapolitan Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-489111H28M38S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tbsp milk; ¼ cup strawberry puree (or strawberry jam); 2–3 drops red food coloring (optional, for vibrancy); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2–3 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that is both delicious and visually stunning, look no further than our Decadent Neapolitan Cake recipe. This cake combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a beautiful layered creation that is sure to impress your guests. It’s the perfect dessert for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion, and it’s surprisingly simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry creates a deliciously rich and indulgent flavor profile.
Quick prep time: Despite its impressive appearance, this cake is actually quite easy to make, with simple steps that anyone can follow.
Perfect for meal prep: This cake can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy schedules or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Cake Layers:

All-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt: These ingredients form the base of the cake layers, providing structure and texture.
Unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and whole milk: These ingredients create a moist and flavorful cake batter.
For the Chocolate Layer:
Unsweetened cocoa powder and milk: These ingredients are used to create the rich chocolate layer.
For the Strawberry Layer:
Strawberry puree (or strawberry jam) and red food coloring (optional): These ingredients give the cake its vibrant strawberry flavor and color.
For the Frosting:
Unsalted butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract: These ingredients come together to create a creamy and decadent frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven and prepare your cake pans.
Mix together the dry ingredients for the cake layers.
Cream the butter and sugar, then add the eggs and vanilla.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the batter.
Divide the batter into three portions and flavor each for the chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry layers.
Bake the cake layers and let them cool completely.
Assemble the layers with frosting in between and on top.
Chill the cake before serving.

Helpful Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Make sure to properly measure your ingredients for accurate results.
Store the cake in the fridge for up to 3 days, but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Level your cake layers before assembling for a professional finish.
Use a cake turntable and offset spatula for smooth frosting application.

Serving Suggestions:

This Neapolitan Cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. Serve it alongside fresh berries for a colorful and refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own? Yes, store-bought frosting can be used as a time-saving alternative.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
Can I use different flavors for the cake layers? Feel free to experiment with different flavors to customize the cake to your liking.
Can I freeze this cake? Yes, this cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Conclusion:

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Decadent Neapolitan Cake as much as we do. It’s a delicious and visually impressive dessert that is sure to become a favorite for any special occasion. Don’t forget to share your feedback and photos of your creation with us!