If you have a soft spot for classic, crowd-pleasing desserts, then you are going to adore this Neapolitan Cake with Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Layers Recipe. This cake isn’t just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a vibrant celebration of three beloved flavors stacked together with creamy frosting and a luscious chocolate ganache that makes every bite feel like a delightful trip down memory lane. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet craving to satisfy, this cake brings joy with each colorful, moist layer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on the ingredients for this Neapolitan Cake with Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Layers Recipe is refreshingly simple. Each component is a star contributor, ensuring the cake bakes up perfectly moist, beautifully colored, and supremely flavorful.
- Triple chocolate cake mix: The rich base for the chocolate layer, providing a deep, indulgent flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the fruitiness.
- Strawberry cake mix: Adds a natural pink hue and a fresh fruity sweetness that lifts the entire cake.
- French vanilla cake mix: For a classic, buttery vanilla base that rounds out the trio of flavors.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Used according to box directions, these keep the cake moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter (3 cups, softened): The backbone of a creamy, rich frosting.
- Powdered sugar (6 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 tablespoons): Enhances the flavor of the frosting with warm, aromatic notes.
- Heavy whipping cream (5-7 tablespoons): Used to add smoothness and help the frosting achieve a luscious texture.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): Melted into a silky ganache that crowns the cake with glossy chocolate goodness.
- Heavy whipping cream (3/4 cup): Combined with the chocolate chips to create the ganache.
- Maraschino cherries: Optional, but perfect for a charming, nostalgic garnish.
How to Make Neapolitan Cake with Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Layers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit—this ensures your ovens hits the perfect temperature for baking. Spray your cake pans generously with baking spray so your layers release easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batters
Follow the directions on each cake mix box carefully to prepare your chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla batters. Each batter should be smooth and ready to pour—these simple mixes are the magic behind the cake’s moist, fluffy texture and that vibrant burst of color.
Step 3: Pour the Cake Batters into Pans
Fill each cake pan about three-quarters full with one flavor of batter. This step is key to getting thick, even layers, so don’t skimp! Handle each batter gently to avoid deflating the air bubbles, which keep the cake tender.
Step 4: Bake the Layers
Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The layers are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures your layers are cooked perfectly through but still beautifully moist.
Step 5: Cool Completely
Once baked, allow your cake layers to cool completely on the counter. This step is crucial because assembling and frosting warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt and the layers to slide.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
While the cake cools, whip together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar, then add vanilla extract and small amounts of heavy whipping cream until the frosting is fluffy, creamy, and easy to spread. This frosting is the creamy glue that holds all the layers together while adding a sweet, velvety richness.
Step 7: Assemble Your Cake
Start with a chocolate layer on your cake plate, spread a generous layer of frosting over it, then add the strawberry layer, frost again, and finish with the vanilla layer. After the top layer, frost the entire outside of the cake smoothly.
Step 8: Top with Chocolate Ganache
To make the ganache, heat the 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream until simmering and pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Pour the ganache over the top of your frosted cake and gently spread it to create a beautiful, glossy chocolate cap.
How to Serve Neapolitan Cake with Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Layers Recipe
Garnishes
This cake looks divine topped with a handful of maraschino cherries, which add a pop of color and a sweet, fruity bite that complements the layered flavors beautifully. Fresh berries or edible flowers can also add an elegant touch and a fresh brightness.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a fresh berry compote for an extra special dessert spread. A cup of strong coffee or a chilled glass of milk creates the perfect beverage duo.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, try layering the cake in a clear glass trifle dish to show off all those gorgeous colored layers. You can also cut small squares and serve them as petite bites on individual plates for a party. Sprinkling some crushed nuts around the edges adds a lovely crunch and visual interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Neapolitan Cake tightly covered in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness and moisture. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to 4 days, though it rarely lasts that long!
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. When frozen, the cake maintains its flavor and texture for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not necessary. If desired, allow frozen cake slices to thaw overnight in the fridge, and bring to room temperature before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake batter instead of box mixes?
Absolutely! Homemade cake batters for chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla will work wonderfully if you prefer from-scratch baking. Just be sure to keep the textures similar so the layers bake evenly.
Is it necessary to use all three flavors of cake mix?
The three flavors create the classic Neapolitan trio, but if you want, you can swap out or omit one layer to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
How do I avoid the layers sliding when assembling?
Make sure your cake layers are completely cooled and your frosting is thick enough to act as glue. Chilling the layers for a little while after frosting each layer also helps keep everything stable.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, by choosing dairy-free butter substitutes and plant-based creams, you can create a delicious dairy-free version. Just check your cake mixes for dairy ingredients.
What’s the best tool to spread frosting smoothly?
An offset spatula is ideal for spreading frosting evenly and smoothly over layers without breaking the cake surface.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly irresistible about the Neapolitan Cake with Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Layers Recipe that makes it a perennial favorite. The harmony of flavors, the playful colors, and the creamy texture come together in a way that feels both nostalgic and special. I can’t recommend enough that you give this recipe a try—whether for a celebration or just to treat yourself, it’s a guaranteed delight!
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Neapolitan Cake with Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Layers Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Neapolitan Cake featuring layers of rich chocolate, sweet strawberry, and classic French vanilla cake, all topped with a creamy buttercream frosting and garnished with semi-sweet chocolate chips and maraschino cherries. This multi-layered cake provides the perfect blend of flavors for any celebration.
Ingredients
Cake Layers
- 1 Box Triple chocolate cake mix
- 1 Box Strawberry cake mix
- 1 Box French Vanilla cake mix
- Eggs (use quantity as directed on each cake mix box)
- Oil (use quantity as directed on each cake mix box)
- Water (use quantity as directed on each cake mix box)
Buttercream Frosting
- 3 cups unsalted butter (softened)
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 5–7 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream (for chocolate ganache)
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray your cake pans generously with baking spray like Pam to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cake Batters: Follow the instructions on the back of each cake mix box to prepare the three separate batters: triple chocolate, strawberry, and French vanilla. This typically involves combining the cake mix with the required eggs, oil, and water as specified on each package.
- Fill Cake Pans: Pour each batter into its own cake pan, filling each pan about three-quarters full to allow room for rising during baking.
- Bake the Cakes: Bake all cake layers in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Cool the Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack. Cooling fully is essential before frosting to prevent melting.
- Make Buttercream Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla extract. Add 5 to 7 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, adjusting to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: Heat 3/4 cup of heavy whipping cream until just simmering, then pour over 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for a couple of minutes and whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the Cake: Layer the cooled cakes on your serving platter. Spread an even layer of buttercream frosting between each layer. Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining buttercream. Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top and garnish with maraschino cherries for a classic Neapolitan finish.
Notes
- Ensure all cakes are completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting the buttercream.
- You can adjust the amount of heavy whipping cream in the frosting to get your desired frosting consistency.
- For a more stable frosting, chill the buttercream briefly before spreading.
- Store the cake in the refrigerator to keep the frosting and ganache fresh.
- If you prefer, substitute the boxed cake mixes with homemade cake batter for a more personalized flavor.
