Description

This classic Neapolitan Cake features three distinct layers of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavors, all enveloped in a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful dessert, this cake combines rich cocoa, fresh strawberry puree, and vanilla batter for a beautifully layered treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup whole milk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup melted chocolate (for chocolate layer)
1/2 cup pureed strawberries (for strawberry layer)

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup softened butter
8 oz softened cream cheese
4 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
Create Cake Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Divide and Flavor Batter: Split the batter evenly into three portions. To one portion, stir in the melted chocolate for the chocolate layer. Into the second portion, fold in the pureed strawberries for the strawberry layer. Leave the third portion plain for the vanilla layer.
Bake Layers: Pour each flavored batter into its respective prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pans, then transfer to wire racks.
Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
Assemble Cake: Place the vanilla cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over it, then top with the strawberry cake layer. Repeat frosting, then add the chocolate cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it evenly.

Notes

Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help the batter mix smoothly and rise evenly.
Melt the chocolate gently to avoid seizing or burning; use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
Puree fresh or thawed strawberries to achieve a smooth strawberry layer, and strain for fewer seeds if desired.
For best results, chill the cake after frosting to help the frosting set and flavors meld.
To make this a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Keywords: Neapolitan cake, layered cake, chocolate strawberry vanilla cake, cream cheese frosting, dessert, party cake