why make this recipe
The Neapolitan Drip Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a showstopper! With its layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, it brings a taste of classic ice cream treats to your table. Perfect for birthday celebrations, family gatherings, or just a sweet craving, this cake impresses everyone with its charming appearance and delightful flavors. Plus, it’s a fun and creative baking project that allows you to play with colors and tastes!
how to make Neapolitan Drip Cake
Creating the Neapolitan Drip Cake is a rewarding experience. With three layers and luscious dripping ganache, anyone will be excited to have a piece. Follow the steps below to make this delicious cake.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- ½ cup strawberry puree
- ½ teaspoon strawberry extract
- Red food coloring
- 100g bittersweet chocolate
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (for chocolate buttercream)
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (for chocolate buttercream)
- 3 tablespoons natural unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate buttercream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for chocolate buttercream)
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream or water (for chocolate buttercream)
- Pinch of salt (for chocolate buttercream)
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (for vanilla buttercream)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (for vanilla buttercream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for vanilla buttercream)
- 2-3 tablespoons cream or water (for vanilla buttercream)
- ¼ cup strawberry puree (for strawberry buttercream)
- ½ teaspoon strawberry extract (for strawberry buttercream)
- Pinch of salt (for strawberry buttercream)
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream (for ganache)
Directions:
Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
Make the Cake Batter: In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
Divide and Flavor Batter: Split the batter into three equal parts by weight. Leave one part plain for the vanilla layer. Color the second part with cocoa powder for chocolate and mix in the chocolate. For the strawberry layer, add strawberry puree, strawberry extract, and red food coloring to the third part.
Bake the Layers: Pour each batter into its own prepared cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
Prepare the Frostings: For each frosting (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry), beat the respective butter, powdered sugar, flavor, and a bit of milk or cream until smooth.
Assemble the Cake: Place one layer on your serving plate and spread a layer of chocolate frosting on top. Place the second layer, apply vanilla frosting, and then top with the third layer. Frost the entire cake with more vanilla buttercream.
Make the Ganache: Heat heavy cream and pour it over semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Drip the Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then drip it over the edges of the cake for a beautiful finish.
how to serve Neapolitan Drip Cake
Slice the Neapolitan Drip Cake and serve it on individual plates. Garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings if desired. This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
how to store Neapolitan Drip Cake
Store any leftovers of the Neapolitan Drip Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices for up to 2 months.
tips to make Neapolitan Drip Cake
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate division of batter.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, use fresh strawberries in place of strawberry puree.
- Ensure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Adjust the ganache consistency by adding more cream or letting it cool longer for a thicker drip.
variation
You can customize the Neapolitan Drip Cake with different flavors. Try using lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist in the vanilla layer. You can also use different colored frostings to create a rainbow effect.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them. Frost and assemble when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How can I prevent the cake from being dry?
A: Be careful not to overbake the cake. Using room temperature ingredients also helps in creating a moist cake.
Q: What if I don’t have all the different extracts?
A: You can simply leave out the extracts, or substitute them with others you have on hand. Vanilla extract is essential, but the rest can be adjusted to taste.
