Neapolitan Cake Recipe – A Classic Trio of Flavors

You’ll find images of Neapolitan cakes I’ve made using this recipe many times throughout the article.

What Makes My Neapolitan Cake Recipe Unique?

Neapolitan cake is a vintage cake that brings together the irresistible flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a beautifully layered dessert.

Unlike traditional Neapolitan cakes, my version features fluffy buttercream frosting between each layer, adding extra creaminess to every bite.

With a delicate balance of sweetness and a fun, ribbon cake aesthetic, this cake is perfect for birthdays, milestones, or any special occasion. Plus, I’ve included variations and tips to make it truly your own!

Ingredients List for Neapolitan Cake Recipe

For the Cake Layers:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder (for the chocolate layer)
• ¼ cup strawberry puree (for the strawberry layer)
• Pink food coloring (optional, for a vibrant strawberry layer)

For the Fluffy Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup melted chocolate (for chocolate buttercream variation)
• 2 tbsp strawberry puree (for strawberry buttercream variation)

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based butter and almond milk instead of dairy.
• Natural Food Coloring: Instead of artificial food coloring, use beet powder for the strawberry layer.
• Funfetti Cake Twist: Add colorful sprinkles to the vanilla layer for a playful birthday celebration feel.
• Fancy Chocolate Cake Touch: Add chocolate chips to the chocolate layer for extra richness.

Neapolitan Cake Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Divide and Flavor the Batter

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and milk, alternating between the two. Once combined, divide the batter evenly into three bowls. Mix cocoa powder into one bowl, strawberry puree (and food coloring, if using) into another, and leave the third bowl plain for vanilla.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour each batter into its own cake pan and bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling. Trim the tops if necessary to create even layers.

Step 4: Prepare the Fluffy Buttercream Frosting

Beat butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. For a chocolate variation, mix in melted chocolate; for a strawberry variation, blend in strawberry puree. Add heavy cream to reach a fluffy consistency.

Step 5: Assemble and Decorate

Place the chocolate cake layer at the bottom and spread a layer of buttercream. Repeat with the vanilla and strawberry layers. Frost the entire cake with a smooth coat and decorate as desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Neapolitan Cake

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake instead of a fluffy one.
• Not Letting the Cake Cool Completely: Warm cakes will melt the frosting, making assembly difficult.
• Skipping Cake Leveling: Uneven layers can cause the cake to topple.
• Using Too Much Food Coloring: A little goes a long way when achieving that perfect Neapolitan cake aesthetic.

Neapolitan Cake Serving and Presentation Tips

• Ribbon Cake Decoration: Use piping bags to add ribbons of buttercream in each flavor on the sides.
• Neapolitan Cake Designs: Try a layered ombré effect with different shades of frosting.
• Bow Cake Look: Place a fondant bow on top for an elegant presentation.
• Simple Birthday Cake Touch: Top with sprinkles or fresh strawberries for a festive look.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Neapolitan cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of strawberry syrup. For a French cake-inspired experience, serve it with a side of warm chocolate sauce. It also makes a stunning centerpiece for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun family treat!

Extra Recipe Tips for Neapolitan Cake

• Make Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day before and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to three months; just thaw before frosting.
• Layer Cake Recipes Hack: If you struggle with even layers, use a cake leveler for precision.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without food coloring?
Yes! The natural colors from cocoa powder and strawberry puree will give a subtle hue without artificial colors.

How do I prevent my cake from being too dry?
Measure ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Using milk and butter ensures a moist texture.

Can I use store-bought frosting?
Absolutely, but homemade buttercream frosting gives the best taste and texture.

Can I make this as a small birthday cake?
Yes! Just halve the recipe and use 6-inch cake pans for a smaller version.

Final Thoughts

Neapolitan cake is a timeless, classic cake that brings joy with every slice. With its layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, it’s a delicious and aesthetic treat that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re making it for a birthday celebration or just to enjoy a homemade cake recipe, this Neapolitan cake will surely be a hit. Try it today and let me know how you make it your own!