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Neapolitan cake is a timeless dessert that beautifully showcases the harmonious blend of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. This multi-layered cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an eye-catching centerpiece that is perfect for celebrations, birthdays, and special occasions. Its vibrant layers and delightful flavors make it a favorite among dessert lovers and a staple in many households. While the recipe may seem complex at first glance, we assure you that with the right guidance, anyone can master the art of creating this delicious treat.

Mouthwatering Neapolitan Cake

Discover the irresistible charm of Neapolitan cake with this comprehensive step-by-step guide. This classic dessert combines rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and fruity strawberry layers, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any celebration. Learn the essential ingredients for each layer, from the moist chocolate base to the fresh strawberry finish, and master the art of frosting and decorating. Whether for birthdays or special occasions, impress your guests with this delightful treat. Enjoy the sweet journey of baking and sharing this delectable cake!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

½ cup vegetable oil

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

For the Vanilla Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup whole milk

4 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup pureed fresh strawberries (approximately 1 cup of strawberries)

4 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

⅓ cup heavy cream

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Food coloring (pink for strawberry, brown for chocolate, and remaining white for vanilla)

Decoration:

Fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, and colorful sprinkles

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Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them thoroughly to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Chocolate Cake: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Create a well in the center, then add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients until the batter is smooth. Carefully incorporate the boiling water, mixing until fully blended. Divide the batter evenly between two of the prepared pans.

      Prepare the Vanilla Cake: In another mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Using an electric mixer, beat in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. Pour the vanilla batter into the third prepared pan.

        Bake: Place all three cake pans in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

          Prepare the Strawberry Cake: In a fresh mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Beat in the softened butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add the pureed strawberries, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. If desired, use a fourth prepared pan; otherwise, bake this cake after the other cakes have cooled and been removed.

            Make the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Divide the frosting into three bowls: leave one bowl white, tint one with pink food coloring for the strawberry layer, and mix cocoa powder or brown food coloring into the last bowl for the chocolate layer.

              Assemble the Cake: Once all cakes are completely cool, level the tops if needed. Start with the chocolate layer, spreading a layer of vanilla frosting on top. Add the vanilla layer then spread with strawberry frosting. Place the strawberry layer on top, covering the entire cake with the remaining vanilla frosting (or whichever color you prefer for the outer layer).

                Decoration: Top the beautifully assembled cake with fresh strawberries, elegant chocolate shavings, and vibrant sprinkles to enhance its visual appeal.

                  Serving: Slice the cake into 12 pieces and serve to your guests, showcasing the delightful layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Enjoy the combination of rich flavors with every bite!

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                      Prep Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 12 slices