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Close up of the moist cake crumb in the dark cocoa and strawberry pink layers. (Neapolitan Cake Recipe)

Neapolitan Cake Recipe: The Ultimate Three-Layer Showstopper

A stunning Neapolitan Cake Recipe featuring distinct layers of dark chocolate, vanilla bean, and strawberry sponge, topped with a thick matte strawberry buttercream. Perfect for celebrations and optimized for a moist, professional crumb.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Cakes, Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Recipe Ingredients
  • 3 cups Cake Flour 375g, sifted
  • 1.5 cups Unsalted Butter 340g, softened
  • 2.25 cups Granulated Sugar 450g
  • 6 large Egg Whites Room temperature
  • 0.33 cup Dutch Cocoa Powder 30g
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Bean Paste 10ml
  • 0.5 cup Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder 20g

Equipment

  • 3 8-inch round cake pans Greased and parchment lined
  • 1 Stand Mixer With paddle attachment
  • 1 Offset spatula For smoothing buttercream

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cream softened butter and sugar for 5 minutes until fluffy and pale.
  2. Gradually incorporate egg whites and dry ingredients into a unified batter.
  3. Divide batter into three bowls; fold cocoa into one, vanilla paste into the second, and strawberry powder into the third.
  4. Bake in 8-inch pans at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
  5. Frost with strawberry buttercream once cakes are completely cooled.

Notes

Level your cakes for the perfect vertical slice appearance.
Use room temperature ingredients to prevent batter curdling.