Name: Neapolitan Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
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; Melted chocolate (for chocolate layer); Pureed strawberries or fresh strawberries (for strawberry layer); Vanilla (left plain); 1 cup softened butter; 4 cups powdered sugar; 8 oz cream cheese (softened)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

The Neapolitan Cake is a delightful dessert that layers chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors into one beautiful and delicious treat. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence, this cake combines rich cocoa, fresh strawberries, and classic vanilla with a creamy frosting.

A slice of four-layered cake sits on a white speckled plate with a gold fork beside it. The bottom layer is dark brown, the next is pink, followed by an off-white layer, then a light pink layer on top. Each layer is separated by thin, creamy white frosting. The cake is topped with swirls of frosting in three colors: dark brown, pink, and white, arranged around the edge, giving it a rich and textured look. The background has a soft, white marbled texture with blurred floral accents. 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)
Fresh strawberries or strawberry puree (for the strawberry layer)
Melting chocolate (for the chocolate 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, sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly 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 separate bowls. Mix melted chocolate into one portion, stir in pureed strawberries or fresh chopped strawberries into the second, and leave the third plain for the vanilla layer.
Step 5: Pour each flavored batter into its prepared cake pan. Bake all three layers for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in their pans before removing.
Step 6: For the frosting, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Assemble the cake by spreading cream cheese frosting between each layer. Once stacked, cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting for a smooth finish.

Tips & Variations

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve the best texture.
Use fresh strawberries for a natural texture or strawberry puree for a smoother layer.
Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding.
For an extra rich chocolate layer, fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the chocolate batter.

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

A slice of four-layer cake sits on a white plate with a light speckled pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark chocolate brown and moist, followed by a pink layer, then a creamy white layer, and topped with a soft pastel pink layer. Each cake layer is separated by a thin white cream filling. On top of the slice are swirls of frosting in three colors: chocolate brown, soft pink, and white, arranged in an alternating pattern. A small white decoration is nestled among the frosting swirls. A gold fork rests beside the cake slice on the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with buttermilk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind, this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the cake layers from drying out?

To keep the layers moist, avoid overbaking and cool them properly before frosting. Wrapping the cooled layers in plastic wrap before storing also helps retain moisture.