Neapolitan Cake Recipe

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Neapolitan Cake Recipe

Introduction

Neapolitan Cake is a delightful, classic dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into one stunning cake. Named after the Neapolitan ice cream, this cake features layers of rich chocolate cake, creamy vanilla cake, and fruity strawberry cake, all frosted with a luscious buttercream. It’s a perfect choice for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion where a touch of nostalgia and indulgence is desired.

Ingredients

For the Cakes:

  • Chocolate Cake Layer:
    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
    • 2 large eggs
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 cup boiling water
  • Vanilla Cake Layer:
    • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Strawberry Cake Layer:
    • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen)
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (more if needed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Food coloring (optional, for tinting the frosting)
  • Sprinkles or decorative items (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
    • Chocolate Cake Layer:
      1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
      2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
      3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
      4. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until the batter is well combined (the batter will be thin).
      5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
      6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
    • Vanilla Cake Layer:
      1. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
      2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
      3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
      4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
      5. Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
      6. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
      7. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
    • Strawberry Cake Layer:
      1. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
      2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
      3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
      4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract.
      5. Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
      6. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
      7. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:
    1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy and smooth.
    2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
    3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
    4. If using food coloring, divide the frosting into three bowls and tint each with a different color to match the cake layers (optional).
  3. Assemble the Cake:
    1. Level each cake layer with a knife or cake leveler if needed.
    2. Place the chocolate cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
    3. Add the vanilla cake layer on top of the chocolate layer. Spread another layer of frosting on top.
    4. Add the strawberry cake layer on top of the vanilla layer.
    5. Frost the top and sides of the cake with a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
    6. Apply a final coat of frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula or bench scraper. Decorate with sprinkles or other decorative items if desired.
  4. Serve:
    • Slice and enjoy your beautiful Neapolitan Cake!

History

Neapolitan Cake is inspired by Neapolitan ice cream, a classic combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors. This cake takes the essence of this nostalgic ice cream flavor and translates it into a layered, elegant dessert. The cake has become a favorite for its vibrant colors and classic taste, bringing a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to any celebration.

Benefits

  • Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, including birthdays, parties, and family gatherings.
  • Flavor Variety: Offers a combination of three popular flavors in one cake.
  • Customizable: Can be decorated and flavored according to personal preferences.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, assuming 12 slices)

  • Calories: Approximately 400
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 38g

Reasons to Make It

  • Elegant Presentation: The layered design and vibrant colors make it a show-stopping dessert.
  • Classic Flavors: Combines three beloved flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
  • Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for special occasions and gatherings, offering a delightful treat for guests.

New Tips and Methods

  • Use Fresh Fruit: Incorporate fresh strawberries into the strawberry cake layer for added flavor.
  • Try Different Frosting: Use cream cheese frosting or whipped cream for a different texture.
  • Make Mini Cakes: Bake in smaller pans to create individual mini cakes for a fun twist.
  • Add Fillings: Layer with fruit preserves or chocolate ganache between the cake layers for extra indulgence.

Enjoy your Neapolitan Cake, a delicious and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for any celebration!

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