If you’re craving a dessert that’s as charming as it is delicious, this Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. With its subtly sweet, buttery crumb punctuated by bright vanilla and a hint of citrus zest, this cake captures the essence of classic Italian comfort food with a simple yet elegant twist. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or just treating yourself, this pound cake offers a moist, tender texture that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful cake. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from creating the cake’s tender crumb to giving it that gentle sweetness and subtle flavor complexity.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the cake its perfect structure without weighing it down.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds balanced sweetness and helps achieve a golden crust.
½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Essential for moistness and rich, buttery flavor.
3 large eggs: Provide lift and contribute to the cake’s tender texture.
½ cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender while blending flavors together smoothly.
1 tsp baking powder: The rising agent that ensures your cake is light and airy.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, fragrant note that complements the butter perfectly.
Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional): Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that elevates this classic pound cake beautifully.

How to Make Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking and to help it bake evenly with a lovely outer crust.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat them together for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale. This crucial step creates air pockets, contributing to the cake’s tender texture and rise.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This method ensures the eggs are fully incorporated, giving the batter a smooth and consistent texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Sifting not only helps to distribute the baking powder evenly but also aerates the flour, making for a light crumb.

Step 5: Alternate Mixing Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-egg mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix only until just combined to keep the cake tender and avoid developing gluten that can make it tough.

Step 6: Add Vanilla and Citrus Zest

Fold in the vanilla extract and the zest of lemon or orange, if you’re using it. This step layers in subtle flavors that will really shine when you take that first bite.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the prepared batter into your greased loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. The cake’s edges should be golden and the aroma irresistible.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let the cake cool completely in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling helps the flavors set and makes slicing neater and easier.

How to Serve Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Lightly dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a simple, classic look. For a touch of elegance, add fresh berries or thin slices of citrus on the side to complement the cake’s zest notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pound cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an Italian-inspired treat, serve alongside a small cup of espresso or a fruity dessert wine to balance its richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering slices of the cake with alternating spreads of strawberry jam and chocolate ganache to nod at the traditional Neapolitan flavor combination. Or, cut the cake into cubes for an elegant trifle layered with fresh berries and mascarpone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it fresh and moist for up to 3 days, perfect if you want to savor it slowly.

Freezing

If you want to save the Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe for later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake tightly in foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy, preserving the cake’s moist crumb and flavor.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes to bring out the buttery richness and soften the texture, making it feel freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe?

All-purpose flour works best as it balances tenderness and structure perfectly, but you can try cake flour for an even lighter crumb. Just remember that cake flour might slightly change the texture.

Is it necessary to use citrus zest in the cake?

Citrus zest is optional but highly recommended. It brightens the flavor of the pound cake and adds a fresh, aromatic layer that makes the cake extra special.

Can I substitute the whole milk with something else?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with buttermilk or a milk alternative like almond milk. Each will tweak the flavor and texture a bit, with buttermilk providing an added tang and tenderness.

How do I know when the pound cake is fully baked?

The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The edges will also turn a nice golden brown.

Can I add layers of chocolate and strawberry fillings to this cake?

Absolutely! Incorporating traditional Neapolitan flavors by layering strawberry jam and chocolate ganache between slices or in a trifle creates a fun and delicious twist on this classic pound cake recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe is a charming classic that’s surprisingly simple to pull off but truly impressive every time. From the buttery crumb to the lovely notes of vanilla and citrus, it’s a cake that feels like a warm invitation to share good moments. So go ahead, bake it with love, share it generously, and watch it become a beloved favorite at your table.