Neapolitan Chocolate Cake Recipe: A 3-Layer Delight!

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a show-stopping Neapolitan Chocolate Cake Recipe: A 3-Layer Delight! This recipe brings together the classic flavors of vanilla, strawberry, and rich chocolate in one stunning dessert. Prepare to impress everyone with your baking prowess!

Introduction: The Ultimate 3-Layer Neapolitan Chocolate Cake Recipe

Get ready to embark on a delicious journey to create a beautiful and flavorful Neapolitan cake. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a celebration of three distinct, beloved flavors combined into one harmonious bite.

Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet craving, our detailed instructions will guide you to a perfect result. Let’s make some magic in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Neapolitan Delight!

This Neapolitan cake offers a delightful trifecta of flavors and textures. Each layer—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry—provides a unique experience that perfectly complements the others.

It’s visually stunning with its distinct color layers, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any occasion. Plus, who can resist a slice of fluffy cake paired with creamy frosting?

This recipe is also incredibly versatile! For more baking inspiration, Read our in-depth guide here.

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Before you begin, ensure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. This helps streamline the baking process.

For the Chocolate Cake Layers

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup hot water or coffee

For the Strawberry Cake Layer

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large egg whites
⅓ cup milk
½ cup fresh strawberry puree
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Few drops red food coloring (optional)

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4-5 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream or milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your Neapolitan Masterpiece

Follow these steps carefully to create your beautiful Neapolitan Chocolate Cake Recipe: A 3-Layer Delight!

Prepare the Cake Batters

For the Chocolate Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until just combined. Stir in hot water/coffee until smooth. Divide batter into the two pans.
For the Strawberry Layer: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour one 8-inch round cake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat in softened butter until crumbly. In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites, milk, strawberry puree, and vanilla. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Add food coloring if desired.

Bake and Cool the Layers

Bake the chocolate layers for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Bake the strawberry layer for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer comes out clean.
Let all cakes cool in their pans for 10-15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Whip Up the Vanilla Buttercream

In a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition.
Pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Assemble and Decorate Your Neapolitan Chocolate Cake

Place one chocolate cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of vanilla buttercream over the top.
Carefully place the strawberry cake layer on top of the chocolate layer. Spread another layer of buttercream.
Place the second chocolate cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining vanilla buttercream. Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting.
Decorate as desired with sprinkles, fresh strawberries, or chocolate shavings.

For truly vibrant strawberry color, choose ripe, flavorful berries. – King Arthur Baking Company

For more detailed decorating techniques, visit King Arthur Baking Company.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Neapolitan Cake

To achieve the best results, always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps with even mixing and a smoother batter.

Don’t overmix your batters; this can lead to tough cakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

For cleaner slicing, chill your assembled Neapolitan cake for at least 30 minutes before cutting. A warm knife can also help!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store your finished Neapolitan cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture. Serve with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or fresh berries!

FAQ

Can I make this Neapolitan cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance and store them, wrapped tightly, at room temperature. The assembled and frosted cake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

What if I don’t have buttermilk for the chocolate layers?

You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup and filling the rest with regular milk until it reaches 1 cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the strawberry layer?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to ensure the batter’s consistency isn’t too thin.