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Neapolitan Layer Cake

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4.1 from 21 reviews

This irresistible Neapolitan Cake combines luscious layers of rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and fresh strawberry for a decadent dessert that will impress your guests. With a moist texture and harmonious flavors, it’s perfect for special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake Layers

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour)
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (can use coconut sugar)
  • 2 tsps baking powder (ensure fresh)
  • 1 tsp salt (optional but recommended)
  • 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
  • 1 cup milk (almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 tsps vanilla extract (real vanilla beans can be used)
  • 8 oz melted chocolate (dark or milk based on preference)
  • 1 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries)

For the Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese (can substitute with vegan cream cheese)
  • 1/2 cup butter (use vegan butter as a substitute)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three round cake pans thoroughly to prevent sticking, and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and cocoa for consistent flavor.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated, preparing the wet base for the cake batter.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
  5. Divide and Flavor the Batter: Divide the batter evenly into three portions. Add the melted chocolate to one portion, stir in the strawberry puree to the second, and keep the third plain for the vanilla layer.
  6. Bake the Layers: Pour each flavored batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
  7. Cool the Cakes: Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cake layers to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely to room temperature, which is essential before frosting.
  8. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This frosting adds delicious richness and helps hold the layers together.
  9. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over it. Repeat with the remaining layers, stacking them carefully. Finally, frost the top and sides of the entire cake smoothly.
  10. Optional Garnish: For an attractive finish, decorate the cake with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings on top. Chill the cake slightly for better slicing, then serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs, milk with almond or oat milk, cream cheese with vegan cream cheese, and butter with vegan butter.
  • You can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to make this cake gluten-free.
  • Ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper rising of the cake layers.
  • Strawberry puree can be made by blending fresh or thawed frozen strawberries until smooth.
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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