The aroma of a freshly baked Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream wafts through the air, tantalizing your senses and beckoning you closer. Imagine layers of moist vanilla, rich chocolate, and sweet strawberry flavors, each slice draped in a luxurious buttercream frosting that makes your taste buds sing. This cake is the perfect showstopper for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or just a Wednesday when you need a little pick-me-up. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
When I first attempted this masterpiece, I was convinced that baking was an art reserved for those with culinary degrees and fancy aprons. But let me tell you, nothing could be further from the truth! My kitchen transformed into a colorful battleground of flour, sugar, and sprinkles as I dove into the process. The laughter echoed off the walls as I fumbled through my mixing bowls, and by the end of it all, I had created not just a dessert but a delightful memory to cherish. So gather your ingredients because it’s time to make this unforgettable treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Neapolitan sheet cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- The delightful combination of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds).
- Its stunning visual appeal with vibrant colors makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed at birthdays, picnics, or just because you deserve a slice of happiness!
Ingredients for Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: comfort food pasta dish.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sifted is best to avoid lumps.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; feel free to experiment with brown sugar for added moisture.
- Baking Powder: This magical ingredient helps your cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates that rich texture; be sure it’s at room temperature.
- Eggs: They provide richness and help bind everything together.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavor; imitation just doesn’t cut it!
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate layer.
- Strawberry Puree: Fresh or frozen strawberries blended into puree add fruity goodness.
- Heavy Cream: Perfect for whipping into fluffy buttercream frosting.
For the Buttercream:
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetener creates that dreamy frosting consistency we all crave.
- Vanilla Extract: Extra vanilla in the frosting? Yes, please!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three baking pans (9-inch) with parchment paper. Trust me; this will save you from tearing your beautiful cake apart later!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. This mixture is the foundation of your delicious creation – treat it right!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. It’s like giving your cake a little spa day! Add in eggs one at a time while mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Mix in vanilla extract and carefully fold in half of your dry mixture followed by milk until just combined. Repeat with remaining dry ingredients until smooth. Divide this batter into three bowls: one remains plain vanilla while you mix cocoa powder into another bowl for chocolate flavor and fold strawberry puree into the last bowl.
Step 5: Bake Your Layers
Pour each flavored batter into its respective greased pan. Bake them in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Patience is key here!
Step 6: Frosting Time!
While your cakes are cooling, whip up that decadent buttercream by beating together softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Gradually add heavy cream until creamy perfection forms! Spread evenly between layers once cooled down.
Transfer to plates and drizzle generously with leftover icing because life is too short not to indulge!
Now you’ve got an eye-catching Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream that’s ready to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite—after all, happiness is homemade!
You Must Know
- This delightful Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream combines the flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in one stunning dessert.
- It’s a showstopper at parties, and the best part?
- You can whip it up with ease and impress your family and friends.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking each layer of the Neapolitan sheet cake separately for even cooking. While the cakes cool, prepare the luscious buttercream frosting to save time. Assemble the cake once everything is ready for a seamless experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap flavors in your Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream! Try adding a hint of almond extract or swap out the strawberry for raspberry. Get creative with your favorite fillings or add sprinkles for a festive touch.
Storing & Reheating
To maintain freshness, store leftover Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze individual slices wrapped tightly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter that blends well together.
- Keep an eye on baking times; overbaking can lead to dry layers.
- Let each layer cool completely before frosting to avoid melting your beautiful buttercream.
I remember the first time I made this Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream; my friends devoured it in minutes! The smiles on their faces made all the flour-covered chaos worth it.
FAQs:
What is Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream?
Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a single cake. This cake features three layers, each representing one of the signature flavors. hearty casserole pairing The buttercream frosting adds a creamy texture and enhances the overall taste. perfect picnic chicken salad It’s perfect for celebrations or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something colorful and delicious.
How do I store Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream?
To store your Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream, first ensure it has cooled completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can keep the cake at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to three months. Make sure to thaw frozen slices in the fridge before serving.
Can I customize the flavors in my Neapolitan sheet cake?
Absolutely! While the traditional Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream features chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider using different fruit purees, such as raspberry or mango, for a unique twist. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut to create a one-of-a-kind cake that reflects your taste.
What occasions are best for serving Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream?
Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream is ideal for various occasions! It’s particularly popular for birthday parties, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations due to its vibrant colors and rich flavors. Additionally, this cake works well as a fun treat during summer picnics or potlucks. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser for both children and adults alike.
Conclusion for Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream:
In summary, Neapolitan sheet cake with buttercream is an enjoyable dessert that brings together three classic flavors in one delicious treat. Its colorful layers make it visually appealing while offering diverse tastes that satisfy any sweet tooth. banana pudding cheesecake recipe Whether you choose to stick with traditional flavors or customize them to your liking, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe; your friends and family will love it!
Neapolitan Sheet Cake with Buttercream
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Neapolitan sheet cake, featuring layers of moist vanilla, rich chocolate, and sweet strawberry, all generously covered with velvety buttercream frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a simple treat, this colorful cake is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this recipe simplifies the process while delivering fantastic results!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch baking pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually fold in half of the dry mixture followed by milk until smooth. Repeat with remaining dry ingredients.
- Divide batter into three bowls: keep one plain for vanilla flavor, mix cocoa powder into another for chocolate flavor, and fold strawberry puree into the last for strawberry flavor.
- Pour each batter into its respective pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool before preparing the buttercream by beating together softened butter and powdered sugar. Gradually add heavy cream until smooth.
- Once cooled, frost between layers and on top of the cake as desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Classic
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. Feel free to customize flavors; consider using raspberry puree instead of strawberry for a twist!