Ultimate Neapolitan Cake Recipe: A Layered Masterpiece of Chocolate, Vanilla & Strawberry
Introduction to the Neapolitan Cake
Neapolitan cake is a luxurious tri-flavored dessert inspired by the iconic Neapolitan ice cream. It fuses three classic cake flavors—rich chocolate, delicate vanilla, and fresh strawberry—into a single, stunning layer cake. Perfect for celebrations, birthdays, and sophisticated gatherings, this cake offers visual impact and harmonious taste in every bite.
Ingredients for the Perfect Neapolitan Cake
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- ¼ cup (60ml) hot water or coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
- ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Vanilla Layer:
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, room temperature
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) strawberry purée (made from fresh strawberries)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pink gel food coloring (optional, for vibrant color)
Layer-by-Layer Baking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
Step 2: Prepare Each Batter Separately
Mix each layer individually, following these steps:
Chocolate Layer:
Whisk dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk wet ingredients. Combine both, mix until smooth. Pour into pan.
Vanilla Layer:
Cream butter and sugar until light. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix in dry ingredients and milk alternately. Pour into pan.
Strawberry Layer:
Cream butter and sugar. Mix in eggs and purée. Fold in dry ingredients and optional coloring. Pour into pan.
Step 3: Bake the Layers
Bake all layers simultaneously (if oven space allows) for 25–28 minutes. Cakes are done when a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on wire racks before assembling.
Neapolitan Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 cups (720g) powdered sugar
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 oz (85g) melted semi-sweet chocolate
- 2 tbsp strawberry purée or extract
- Optional: pink gel food coloring
Directions:
- Base Buttercream: Beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar. Add cream and vanilla, beating until smooth.
- Divide and Flavor: Split into three bowls.
- Bowl 1: Mix in melted chocolate.
- Bowl 2: Mix in strawberry purée + coloring.
- Bowl 3: Leave as vanilla.
- Chill for 15 minutes before use for easier spreading.
Assembling the Neapolitan Cake
- Level all layers to ensure even stacking.
- Layer order: Start with chocolate, then vanilla, and top with strawberry for a classic look.
- Frost between layers with a thin coat of vanilla buttercream.
- Crumb coat the entire cake, chill for 20 minutes.
- Final decoration:
- Frost the sides with vanilla or chocolate buttercream.
- Pipe decorative swirls in strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate on top.
- Garnish with shaved chocolate or fresh berries for elegance.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Make-ahead frosting: Store buttercream in fridge up to 3 days. Re-whip before using.
Flavor Enhancements and Variations
- Chocolate ganache drip: Add rich visual contrast and intense flavor.
- Fresh fruit between layers: Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst.
- Infused syrups: Brush each cake layer with flavored simple syrup (vanilla, cocoa, or strawberry liqueur) for extra moisture and depth.
Troubleshooting Common Cake Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dry cake | Overbaking | Reduce baking time, check early |
| Dense texture | Overmixing | Mix until just combined |
| Layers sliding | Warm frosting | Chill cakes before stacking |
| Uneven layers | Uneven pans or batter | Use scale and level surface |
Neapolitan Cake FAQs
Can I use box cake mixes?
Yes, but the taste and texture won’t match a homemade version. If using mixes, add an extra egg and substitute milk for water to enrich the texture.
Can I make this as cupcakes?
Yes. Divide each batter into cupcake tins. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–20 minutes.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of purée?
Yes. Blend fresh berries into a smooth purée, then strain if needed for consistency.
Conclusion: The Showstopper Cake Everyone Will Remember
Neapolitan cake is more than a dessert—it’s a statement piece. Its iconic flavor trio appeals to all palates, while the layered presentation creates a visually stunning centerpiece. Whether for birthdays, anniversaries, or elegant soirées, this recipe guarantees unforgettable flavor and sophistication.
Optimize your celebrations with this handcrafted classic—every slice tells a story of balance, beauty, and tradition.