Introduction
Neapolitan Cake is a classic dessert that everyone loves. This colorful cake is a perfect choice for birthdays, parties or any special occasion. The cake is layered with three different flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, which are beautifully stacked on top of each other. The cake is then frosted with a delicious whipped cream or buttercream frosting and topped with fresh strawberries. In this recipe, we will show you how to make this delicious cake step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Layer:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup pureed strawberries
For the Frosting and Decoration:
- 2 cups whipped cream or buttercream frosting
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease three 8-inch (20cm) cake pans with butter and flour.
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For the Vanilla Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until everything is fully combined. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
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For the Chocolate Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until everything is fully combined. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
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For the Strawberry Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract and pureed strawberries. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until everything is fully combined. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
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Bake the cakes for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the pans.
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To assemble the cake, place one cake layer of each flavor on top of each other, spreading a thin layer of whipped cream or buttercream frosting in between each layer. Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining frosting and decorate with fresh strawberries, if desired.
Vegetarian and Vegan Variations
To make this cake vegetarian, you can replace the eggs with an egg substitute, such as applesauce or mashed bananas. For a vegan version, you can use a vegan butter substitute and replace the milk with a plant-based milk, such as almond or soy milk.
Gluten-Free Variation
To make this cake gluten-free, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all of the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Neapolitan Cake is a delicious and fun dessert that everyone will enjoy. With its colorful layers and creamy frosting, it is the perfect choice for any special occasion. Whether you are making it for a birthday, party, or just for fun, this cake is sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your baking skills!
FAQ
What is Neapolitan Cake?
Neapolitan Cake is a popular dessert that features three layers of cake in different flavors, usually chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, stacked on top of each other and covered in frosting.
What ingredients do I need to make Neapolitan Cake?
To make Neapolitan Cake, you will need all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, strawberry puree, and food coloring.
Can I make this cake without food coloring?
Yes, you can make this cake without food coloring. However, the colors of the cake layers will not be as distinct and vibrant as they would be with food coloring.
Can I use different flavors for the cake layers?
Yes, you can use different flavors for the cake layers. Some popular variations include using lemon, orange, or raspberry instead of strawberry.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make this cake in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How should I decorate this cake?
You can decorate Neapolitan Cake with frosting, whipped cream, sprinkles, or fresh fruit. Some people also like to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top.
Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?
Yes, you can make this cake without a stand mixer. Simply use a hand mixer or whisk to mix the ingredients.
How long does it take to bake the cake layers?
The cake layers should take about 20-25 minutes to bake. However, baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your cake pans.
Can I use different sized cake pans?
Yes, you can use different sized cake pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
