Neapolitan Layer Cake
Three layers of fluffy cake, each distinct in flavor and color, come together to create a stunning Neapolitan Layer Cake. This dessert is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something special. With its combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, this cake is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. The unique buttercream frostings elevate it to dessert perfection, making it a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Stunning Presentation: The layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry create an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
- Delicious Flavors: Each layer offers a different taste experience, satisfying diverse palates in one cake.
- Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply to indulge yourself on a weekend.
- Homemade Goodness: Made with fresh ingredients, this cake is far superior to store-bought options.
- Fun Baking Project: Crafting this Neapolitan Layer Cake is an enjoyable challenge that brings out your inner baker.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Neapolitan Layer Cake, gather the essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cake pans (3 x 9-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Cake pans: Ensure even baking and provide the right shape for each layer of the cake.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without mess.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batters and frostings to achieve a perfect consistency.
Ingredients
Three cakes, three buttercreams, one labor of love. So worth it.
For the Vanilla Cake
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt, at room temperature
- 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
For the Strawberry Buttercream
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4-5 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 stick butter, softened
- 1 cup freeze dried strawberries, ground to 1/4 cup
For the Chocolate Cake
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
- 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional)
- 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
For the Chocolate Buttercream
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt, at room temperature
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp black cocoa powder (or more regular cocoa powder)
- 1 tsp instant espresso (optional)
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
For the Final Touches
All remaining buttercream ingredients:
– 3/4 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
– 4 tbsp butter, softened
– 1/3 cup cocoa powder
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 4-5 tbsp heavy cream
How to Make Neapolitan Layer Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease three 9-inch cake pans with oil or butter to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Vanilla Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and yogurt until combined.
4. In another bowl, mix flour with baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with buttermilk.
Step 3: Bake Vanilla Cakes
Pour equal amounts of batter into prepared pans. Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Continue with similar steps for preparing the strawberry cake batter followed by chocolate cake batter as per your recipe instructions!
How to Serve Neapolitan Layer Cake
Neapolitan Layer Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.
Classic Slice
- Serve a classic slice of Neapolitan Layer Cake with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added richness.
Fruit Garnish
- Top each slice with fresh strawberries or raspberries to enhance the fruity flavor and add a pop of color.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a refreshing contrast to the rich cake layers.
Coffee Companion
- Pair slices with a hot cup of coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness and complement the chocolate flavors.
Festive Presentation
- Decorate each plate with chocolate sauce or strawberry puree for an elegant touch that impresses guests.
Creative Stacking
- Create mini stacked versions using small round cakes layered with buttercream for fun individual servings at parties.
How to Perfect Neapolitan Layer Cake
To achieve the perfect Neapolitan Layer Cake, consider these essential tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa together prevents lumps and ensures an even distribution in your batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense cakes instead of light and fluffy layers.
- Check Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean for perfectly baked layers.
- Chill Buttercream: If your buttercream is too soft, chill it briefly before frosting the cake to make it easier to spread.
- Layer Evenly: Ensure that each layer is evenly spread out before stacking to maintain stability and an attractive appearance.
Best Side Dishes for Neapolitan Layer Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Neapolitan Layer Cake can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that balances the cake’s richness.
- Chocolate Mousse: A light and airy chocolate mousse provides a complementary chocolate flavor without being too heavy.
- Creamy Vanilla Pudding: Smooth vanilla pudding offers a simple, sweet contrast that enhances the cake’s taste.
- Minted Whipped Cream: Infuse whipped cream with fresh mint for a refreshing twist alongside your cake slices.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm caramel sauce adds sweetness and richness, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Nutty Granola Cups: Crunchy granola cups provide texture, offering a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory balance to the sweet layers of your dessert.
- Herbed Tea Sandwiches: Light tea sandwiches can serve as a palate cleanser between bites of this decadent cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Neapolitan Layer Cake, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to a more successful and delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can prevent your batter from mixing well. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature for a smoother cake.
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Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
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Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different; relying solely on time can result in overbaking or underbaking. Keep an eye on your cakes and use a toothpick test for doneness.
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Not leveling the cakes: Uneven layers can make stacking difficult. Use a serrated knife to level the tops of your cakes before assembling.
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Forgetting to cool properly: Placing hot cakes directly into the fridge can cause them to become soggy. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack first.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Neapolitan Layer Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Neapolitan Layer Cake
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Neapolitan Layer Cake
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Neapolitan Layer Cake:
How do I make my Neapolitan Layer Cake more flavorful?
Adding extracts, like almond or fruit flavors, can enhance the taste. Consider using fresh fruits as toppings too!
Can I substitute ingredients in my Neapolitan Layer Cake?
Yes! You can use gluten-free flour or dairy alternatives without compromising too much on flavor.
How long does it take to make a Neapolitan Layer Cake?
The total time is approximately 75 minutes, including prep and cooking time, but may vary based on experience.
What is the best way to decorate my Neapolitan Layer Cake?
Use fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or colorful sprinkles to create an inviting look. The buttercream layers can also be piped creatively!
Final Thoughts
The Neapolitan Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone loves. With its beautiful layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry buttercream, this cake is perfect for birthdays or any special occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite flavors and decorations—make it your own!
Neapolitan Layer Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of a Neapolitan Layer Cake, featuring three layers of fluffy cake that combine rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and fresh strawberry flavors. This stunning dessert is perfect for birthdays, special celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something extraordinary. Not only does it please the palate with its harmonious blend of tastes, but its vibrant colors also make it a show-stopping centerpiece. The unique buttercream frostings elevate each layer, creating a visually appealing and delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake offers a fun and rewarding baking project that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- Vanilla extract
- Cocoa powder
- Freeze-dried strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease three 9-inch cake pans.
- For the vanilla layer, cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and yogurt.
- Combine dry ingredients in another bowl and alternate adding them with buttermilk to the wet mixture.
- Pour equal amounts into prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Repeat the process for the chocolate and strawberry layers.
- Once cooled, stack the layers with corresponding buttercreams in between each layer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
