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Neapolitan Layer Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 27 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Description

This Neapolitan Layer Cake is a delightful and decadent treat featuring three distinct flavors in one beautiful layered dessert. Combining classic vanilla, rich chocolate, and fresh strawberry layers, this cake is perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself. The moist cake layers are sandwiched with fluffy whipped cream, making it a light yet satisfying dessert.

Ingredients

Cake Batter

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Additional Flavorings

  • 1 cup strawberry puree
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder (to mix into third batter)

Frosting

  • 1 cup whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the cake layers evenly.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for your batter.
  3. Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
  4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa flavor.
  5. Incorporate dry ingredients and liquids: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract to create a smooth batter without lumps.
  6. Divide and flavor the batter: Split the batter evenly into three separate bowls. Leave one plain for vanilla, stir the strawberry puree into the second for a fruity layer, and mix additional cocoa powder into the third for a richer chocolate flavor.
  7. Prepare cake pans: Grease and flour three cake pans, then evenly pour each flavored batter into its own pan to maintain the distinct layers.
  8. Bake the cakes: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling doneness.
  9. Cool the cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on wire racks to prevent the frosting from melting.
  10. Assemble and frost: Once cooled, layer the cakes by spreading whipped cream between each layer. Use the remaining whipped cream to frost the top and sides for a smooth, creamy finish.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.
  • To make strawberry puree, blend fresh strawberries until smooth. Strain if you want a smoother texture.
  • Use an extra 8-inch cake pan or adjust baking times for different pan sizes.
  • Chill the cake after assembly to help the whipped cream set if desired.
  • This cake is best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain freshness of whipped cream.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/neapolitan-layer-cake-recipe/