Neapolitan Drip Cake Recipe

There is nothing quite like the magic of a Neapolitan Drip Cake to transform a family gathering or a special occasion into an unforgettable event. With its harmonious layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, encased in lush buttercream and adorned with a glossy chocolate ganache drip and fresh berries, this cake is a visual and culinary masterpiece. Perfect for celebrations, this cake brings together the timeless flavors that everyone loves, evoking childhood memories and creating new ones. Gather your loved ones and embark on this delightful baking adventure—it’s creativity, elegance, and indulgence all in one!

Ingredients

• For the Cake Layers:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder (for chocolate layer)
• 1/4 cup strawberry puree (for strawberry layer)
• Pink food coloring (optional, for strawberry layer)
• For the Buttercream Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• For the Chocolate Ganache:
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• For Garnish:
• Fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 6-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly into three bowls. Add cocoa powder to one bowl, mixing well to create the chocolate layer.
6. In another bowl, mix in the strawberry puree and a few drops of pink food coloring, if desired, to create the strawberry layer.
7. Pour each batter into the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream frosting by beating the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, followed by the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
9. Once the cakes are cool, level the tops if needed. Place the chocolate cake layer on a serving platter and spread an even layer of buttercream on top. Repeat with the vanilla and strawberry layers, spreading buttercream between each layer.
10. Crumb coat the entire cake with a thin layer of buttercream and chill for 20 minutes. Apply a final, smooth layer of buttercream over the cake.
11. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
12. Once the ganache has cooled slightly, gently pour it over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
13. Decorate with fresh berries and serve.

Helpful Tips

• For beginners, use separate piping bags to apply the drip ganache for better control.
• To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• If you don’t have fresh strawberries, strawberry jam can be used instead for the strawberry layer.

Storage Instructions

Store the Neapolitan Drip Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Pairings

Enjoy this cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé. Complementary dishes include a light garden salad or a savory charcuterie board to balance the sweetness of the cake.

The Neapolitan Drip Cake is not just a cake; it’s a towering tribute to timeless flavors and family traditions. We invite you to try this recipe and add your personal touch to it. When you do, share your beautiful creations with us by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging us on Instagram. Your feedback is cherished, so please leave your thoughts at www.zynahz.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow us on social media for more culinary inspiration. Happy baking!