Moist Neapolitan Cake with Buttercream Frosting

Oh, sweet friends, there’s a certain magic that happens when classic flavors come together, isn’t there? Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of the neapolitan cake, a dessert that truly has it all – the rich embrace of chocolate, the sweet whisper of vanilla, and the vibrant, fruity kiss of strawberry. This beautiful layer cake isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes and a joy to bake right in your own kitchen, promising a delightful texture and a symphony of familiar flavors.

I remember childhood afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, the air thick with the scent of vanilla and baking butter. She always said the best desserts were the ones made with love, and experimenting with different layers and frostings was how I truly fell in love with baking. This neapolitan cake brings back those cherished memories, a delicious reminder of simplicity and pure delight.

This particular neapolitan cake recipe is wonderfully rewarding; it’s perfect for celebrations but also simple enough to brighten any ordinary day. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a lovely way to practice your layering skills! My top tip for any layer cake is always to level your cake layers; it makes assembling so much easier and gives you that beautiful, professional finish.

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful layer cake starts with a few simple, heartwarming ingredients. We’re talking about pantry staples like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and, of course, that wonderful unsalted butter that lends such richness. Don’t forget the fresh strawberries, which bring a burst of natural sweetness to our dreamy strawberry layer. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements ready for you in the recipe card below.

How to Make neapolitan cake

Creating this stunning neapolitan cake is a delightful journey through three distinct layers, each baked to perfection and then lovingly brought together. You’ll start by preparing the individual vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry cake batters. Once baked and cooled, we’ll whisk up a luscious strawberry purée for the filling and a dreamy vanilla buttercream frosting. Finally, it’s all about assembling those vibrant layers to create a masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes!

Classic Neapolitan Layer Cake

Indulge in this iconic three-layered cake featuring distinct vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry flavors, all harmoniously brought together with a luscious vanilla buttercream frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful treat.

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Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, Baking

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Cake Layers

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 300g
• 2 cups granulated sugar 400g
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter 226g, softened
• 4 large eggs room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk 240ml, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Layer

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 45g
• 1/4 cup hot water or coffee 60ml

For the Strawberry Layer

• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries 120g, puréed and strained
• Few drops red or pink food coloring optional

For the Strawberry Purée (for filling)

• 1 cup fresh strawberries 150g, hulled
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional, for sweetness

For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter 340g, softened
• 6-7 cups powdered sugar 720-840g, sifted
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk 60ml
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• Pinch salt

Equipment

• Three 8-inch round cake pans
• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Large mixing bowls
• Rubber Spatula
• Fine-Mesh Sieve
• Parchment Paper
• Offset spatula or butter knife
• Wire Rack

Method

 

Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly into three separate bowls (about 2 1/4 cups each).
7. For the Vanilla Layer: Leave one bowl of batter as is. Pour into one prepared cake pan.
8. For the Chocolate Layer: In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and hot water (or coffee) until smooth. Stir this mixture into the second bowl of batter until fully combined. Pour into the second prepared cake pan.
9. For the Strawberry Layer: Stir the strained strawberry purée and a few drops of food coloring (if using) into the third bowl of batter until fully combined. Pour into the third prepared cake pan.
10. Bake the cake layers for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Strawberry Purée for Filling

1. While cakes cool, combine 1 cup hulled strawberries and optional 1 tbsp sugar in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, if desired. Set aside.

Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed until creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined, then increase to medium. Add heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on high speed for 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.

Assemble the Cake

1. Once cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops of each cake layer if needed, creating flat surfaces.
2. Place one cake layer (e.g., chocolate) on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread about 3/4 cup of buttercream evenly over the top.
3. Drizzle or spread half of the prepared strawberry purée over the buttercream layer. Be mindful not to apply too much liquid.
4. Carefully place the second cake layer (e.g., vanilla) on top. Repeat with another 3/4 cup of buttercream and the remaining strawberry purée.
5. Place the final cake layer (e.g., strawberry) on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining buttercream. Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting.
6. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to set and the layers to firm up.

Notes

For perfectly flat cake layers, you can use baking strips around your cake pans. Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature for a smooth, emulsified batter. Cakes can be baked a day ahead and stored, wrapped tightly, at room temperature. The assembled cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days and should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips for Making This neapolitan cake

Baking a gorgeous neapolitan cake is so much fun, and with a few of my tried-and-true tips, yours will turn out absolutely perfect every time!

• My Secret Trick: When working with cocoa powder, I always make sure to sift it with the dry ingredients. This prevents any pesky lumps and ensures your chocolate cake layer is beautifully light and evenly textured. It makes all the difference!
• For those distinct, vibrant layers, make sure each cake layer is completely cooled before frosting. Warm cake can lead to melting frosting and sliding layers, and nobody wants that! Pop them in the fridge for a bit if you’re in a warm kitchen.
• Don’t be shy with the strawberry purée! A generous layer between the cakes adds incredible flavor and moisture. I love using fresh, ripe strawberries for the brightest taste, just like my grandmother taught me.
• When frosting, start with a thin “crumb coat.” This traps any loose crumbs, giving you a smooth canvas for your final, beautiful layer of vanilla buttercream. I always find this step makes the finished cake look so much more professional and tidy.

Fun Variations for neapolitan cake

One of the joys of baking is making a recipe truly your own, and this neapolitan cake is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few creative twists I love:

• Berry Bliss: Instead of a strawberry purée, try swirling in a homemade raspberry or mixed berry jam between the layers. My sister always asks me to do this; she adores the tart contrast with the sweet cake.
• Nutty Crunch: For an added layer of texture, consider sprinkling finely chopped pistachios or toasted almonds between the frosted layers. It adds a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the classic Neapolitan flavors beautifully.
• Espresso Kick: If you’re a coffee lover, swap the hot water in the chocolate layer with hot brewed coffee. It deepens the chocolate flavor without making it taste overtly like coffee. A friend loves when I do this for her birthday!
• Citrus Zest: For a brighter, fresher take, add a little orange or lemon zest to the vanilla cake batter. It introduces a lovely, subtle aroma and elevates the overall flavor profile of this delightful neapolitan cake.

What to Serve With neapolitan cake

A slice of this delightful neapolitan cake is a treat in itself, but a thoughtful accompaniment can elevate the whole experience into something truly special.

I love serving this cake with a simple scoop of homemade vanilla bean ice cream; the creamy, cool contrast is absolutely heavenly. For a more elegant touch, a side of fresh, lightly sugared berries adds a burst of freshness that complements the strawberry layer perfectly. My mom always pairs a slice with a comforting cup of hot cocoa during cooler months, while a light, sparkling rosé makes for a lovely, refreshing pairing at a summer gathering. And for a quick serving idea, a simple dusting of powdered sugar makes any slice look extra inviting!

How to Store neapolitan cake

Ensuring your neapolitan cake stays fresh and delicious is key to enjoying every last crumb! Proper storage means you can savor those delightful flavors for days.

Fridge Storage

Once frosted, this beautiful neapolitan cake is best stored in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or, even better, place it in an airtight cake carrier. This prevents the cake from drying out and keeps the buttercream fresh. It will stay wonderfully moist for up to 3-4 days. I always find wrapping it well helps to keep the cake from absorbing any fridge odors!

Freezer Tips

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the entire cake. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, and place them in an airtight container. The cake will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Nutritional Benefits

While this neapolitan cake is undeniably a celebration of sweet indulgence, it does offer a delightful blend of simple ingredients. The fresh strawberries in our purée provide a lovely boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a touch of wholesome goodness to this comforting treat. It’s a wonderful example of how desserts, made with a little love, can be both satisfying and nourishing in spirit.

FAQs

Faq 1

What gives neapolitan cake its distinct flavors?
A neapolitan cake gets its signature three-flavor profile from separate layers: classic vanilla, rich chocolate (often with cocoa powder), and vibrant strawberry (typically from strawberry purée or extract). Each layer is baked individually, then stacked and frosted for a harmonious blend.

Faq 2

Can I use frozen strawberries for the purée?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work perfectly for the purée. Thaw them first, then proceed as directed in the recipe. They’ll still provide that wonderful fruity flavor and beautiful pink hue for your neapolitan cake.

Faq 3

How do I get clean, distinct layers when assembling?
To achieve neat layers, ensure your cake layers are completely cooled and leveled before stacking. Use a thin, even layer of frosting between each cake, and if needed, chill the cake briefly between layers to firm up the buttercream.

Faq 4

Can I make this cake ahead of time for a party?
Yes, this neapolitan cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance and store them well-wrapped at room temperature. The frosted cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days before serving.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about bringing a beautiful neapolitan cake to the table – it’s a moment of pure joy, a celebration of simple pleasures, and a testament to the magic of homemade treats. I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own sweet memories in the kitchen, just as I’ve done throughout my life. With a little love, patience, and these classic flavors, you’re not just baking a cake; you’re baking happiness. So, tie on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some sweet magic together!