I love a cake that shows three flavors in one slice. This Neapolitan Cake is simple to make and fun to cut so everyone sees chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. If you like layered cakes, you might also enjoy my apple cake with cream cheese frosting for another cozy treat.
Dad James always asked for a big slice at Sunday dinner, and I still think of him when I bake this. Mom Eva helped me spread frosting, and Sister Sarah loved the pink layer.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree
- Food coloring (optional)
- Frosting of choice (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry)
The Tools That Help
I keep things simple. You need three 9-inch round pans, mixing bowls, a hand or stand mixer, a spatula, and a cooling rack. For a similar cozy bake that uses basic tools, see my apple cider coffee cake for tips on pans and timing.
The Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease three 9-inch pans.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in milk and vanilla.
- Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry mix to the wet mix.
- Divide batter into three equal parts.
- Stir cocoa powder into one part for chocolate.
- Stir strawberry puree into one part for strawberry.
- Leave the last part plain for vanilla and add food coloring if you like.
- Pour each batter into its own prepared pan.
- Bake 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes completely on a rack.
- Layer cakes with chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla frosting.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
I swap half the butter for applesauce to cut fat, or use Greek yogurt in place of some milk. You can reduce sugar by a bit and the cake still stays moist. Use a light whipped frosting to keep the cake feeling fresh.
Perfect Pairings
Serve a slice with coffee or a glass of cold milk. I like fresh berries and a simple fruit compote with this cake. If you want a richer pairing idea, try the ricotta style from my apple cider cheesecake recipe for a dessert table that balances sweet and tart.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
Do not overmix after you add the flour; mix until just combined. Make sure pans are well greased to prevent sticking. Cool the layers fully before frosting, or the frosting will melt and slide.
Storing Your Creation
Keep the cake loosely covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and refrigerate for up to five days. You can freeze wrapped layers for up to two months; thaw in the fridge before frosting.
A Final Warm Word
I love the smiles this cake brings. It is a happy bake for birthdays, picnics, or a weeknight treat. Take your time with the layers and enjoy the moment.
Answering Your Questions
Can I make Neapolitan Cake ahead of time?
Yes. You can bake the layers a day or two ahead and keep them tightly wrapped in the fridge. I like to frost the cake the day I serve it for the freshest look.
How do I fix a dry Neapolitan Cake?
Brush each layer with a simple syrup or a little milk before frosting. That adds moisture and helps the layers fuse. Also avoid overbaking next time.
Can I freeze Neapolitan Cake layers?
Yes. Wrap cooled layers in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting to keep the texture even.
Print
Neapolitan Cake
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful layered cake featuring three flavors—chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla—in one slice, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree
- Food coloring (optional)
- Frosting of choice (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease three 9-inch pans.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in milk and vanilla.
- Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry mix to the wet mix.
- Divide batter into three equal parts.
- Stir cocoa powder into one part for chocolate.
- Stir strawberry puree into one part for strawberry.
- Leave the last part plain for vanilla and add food coloring if you like.
- Pour each batter into its own prepared pan.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes completely on a rack.
- Layer cakes with chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla frosting.
Notes
Brush each layer with a simple syrup or a little milk before frosting to add moisture. Avoid overbaking to ensure a moist cake. Store loosely covered at room temperature for up to two days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Neapolitan cake, layered cake, chocolate cake, strawberry cake, vanilla cake, birthday cake