Indulge in a slice of nostalgia with this Neapolitan Cake, a visually stunning dessert that layers the beloved flavors of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate. This classic combination is not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or any time you want to make an ordinary day special.
Ingredients
Vanilla Cake Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Strawberry Cake Layer:
- 1 teaspoon strawberry extract
- Pink food coloring
Chocolate Cake Layer:
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 tablespoon milk
Vanilla Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons whole milk, room temperature
For Decoration:
- Assorted candies and chocolates
Directions
- Prepare the Cake Layers:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line three 6-inch round baking pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Stir in the sour cream until just combined.
- Divide and Flavor the Batter:
- Evenly divide the batter among three bowls. Mix strawberry extract and pink food coloring into one bowl for the strawberry layer. Blend the cocoa powder and milk into another bowl for the chocolate layer, leaving the third bowl as vanilla.
- Bake:
- Pour each flavored batter into a prepared pan. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Buttercream:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, alternating with milk, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Level the tops of the cakes if necessary. Place the vanilla cake layer on a cake stand or plate, spread a layer of buttercream on top, and then add the strawberry layer. Repeat with the chocolate layer.
- Apply a thin layer of buttercream around the entire cake for the crumb coat. Chill for 30 minutes, then cover with a final, thicker layer of buttercream.
- Smooth the frosting using a cake scraper or spatula.
- Decorate:
- Decorate with assorted candies and chocolates, pressing them gently into the buttercream to adhere.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all ingredients, particularly eggs and milk, are at room temperature to ensure a smooth, even batter.
- Strawberry Layer Color: Adjust the amount of pink food coloring based on your desired intensity for the strawberry layer.
- Decoration Timing: Add the decorations close to serving time to prevent candies from softening or colors from bleeding into the frosting.
Conclusion
This Neapolitan Cake is a celebration of both flavor and color, making it a perfect centerpiece for any special occasion. Each slice reveals a beautiful trio of colors, matched by the distinct and beloved flavors of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful treat and the joy it brings to any gathering!