Homemade Neapolitan Cake: 3 Easy Layers of Bliss

Unleash your inner baker and prepare to create a stunning Homemade Neapolitan Cake: 3 Easy Layers of Bliss. This delightful dessert combines the classic trio of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry in a moist, perfectly balanced cake that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Making this cake from scratch is a rewarding experience, leading to truly delicious results.

Introduction: A Slice of Neapolitan Heaven

The Neapolitan cake is a timeless classic, celebrated for its distinct layers and harmonious flavors. It’s a nostalgic treat that evokes cherished childhood memories for many.

This recipe breaks down the process into manageable steps, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve a show-stopping result. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to bring this iconic dessert to life in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Neapolitan Cake

There are countless reasons to adore this recipe. Firstly, it offers a perfect balance of three beloved flavors, catering to everyone’s preferences in one slice.

Secondly, the visual appeal of the distinct layers is simply irresistible, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any celebration. And finally, the joy of creating a beautiful, delicious cake from scratch is a reward in itself. This homemade Neapolitan cake is truly special.

Essential Ingredients for Your Neapolitan Masterpiece

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success. While the list might seem long, many items are pantry staples.

Using quality ingredients will significantly impact the final taste and texture of your sensational Neapolitan cake.

For the Vanilla Cake Layer

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup milk

For the Chocolate Cake Layer

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar)

For the Strawberry Cake Layer

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup milk
½ cup fresh strawberry puree (about 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed)
Few drops of red food coloring (optional, for vibrant color)

For the Neapolitan Buttercream Frosting

1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
6-8 cups powdered sugar
½ cup heavy cream or milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup fresh strawberry puree (strained to remove seeds if desired)

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your 3 Easy Layer Neapolitan Cake

Patience and precision are key when creating beautiful layer cakes. Take your time, and enjoy the process of bringing this masterpiece together.

Follow these instructions carefully for the best results. For even more baking tips, Read our in-depth guide here.

Baking the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
For the Vanilla Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry. Mix until just combined. Pour into one prepared pan.
For the Chocolate Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs, then vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Pour into a second prepared pan.
For the Strawberry Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with milk and strawberry puree, mixing until just combined. Stir in food coloring if using. Pour into the third prepared pan.
Bake all three layers for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto wire racks to cool completely.

Preparing the Neapolitan Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream/milk, until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
Divide the buttercream into three equal portions.
Vanilla Buttercream: Leave one portion as is.
Chocolate Buttercream: Mix cocoa powder into the second portion until fully combined.
Strawberry Buttercream: Mix strawberry puree into the third portion until fully combined. Add a few drops of red food coloring if a more vibrant pink is desired.

Assembling and Decorating Your Cake

Once cake layers are completely cool, level them with a serrated knife if necessary.
Place one cake layer (e.g., vanilla) on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of one buttercream flavor (e.g., chocolate) over the top.
Top with the second cake layer (e.g., chocolate). Spread an even layer of a second buttercream flavor (e.g., strawberry).
Place the final cake layer (e.g., strawberry) on top. Now, get creative with your remaining buttercream! You can frost the entire cake with one flavor, or alternate the remaining two flavors in stripes around the outside for a classic Neapolitan look.
Decorate as desired with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles.

Expert Tips for Neapolitan Cake Success

For a truly exceptional Homemade Neapolitan Cake, consider these pro tips. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.

Don’t overmix your batter; overmixing can lead to a tough cake. And chilling your cake layers before frosting can make assembly much easier and less messy!

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This beautiful layer cake is a showstopper all on its own. Serve it as the grand finale to any meal, from birthday parties to Sunday dinners.

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage; wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil. For more storage advice for baked goods, visit King Arthur Baking.

Common Questions About Neapolitan Cake

FAQ

Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Wrap cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw them completely before assembling.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries for the strawberry layer?

You can substitute frozen strawberries for the puree, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing. Alternatively, use a high-quality strawberry extract for flavor, along with red food coloring for color.

How can I get perfectly even cake layers?

Using a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between pans is the best way. For leveling baked cakes, a serrated knife or a dedicated cake leveler works wonders for a flat top.