Layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake is the dessert of my childhood dreams, all grown up and ready to impress. This gorgeous Neapolitan cake recipe isn’t just a treat; it’s a memory, a warm hug, and a celebration all rolled into one. I’ve always loved the combination of flavors, and this layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake takes the classic combination to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready to indulge in a slice of pure bliss!
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake is more than just a pretty face. It’s unbelievably moist, bursting with flavor, and relatively simple to make. The vanilla layers are light and airy, the chocolate layers rich and decadent, and the strawberry layers are fresh as sunshine. This cake brings comfort, offers incredible flavor, and becomes a cherished family favorite in no time.
This recipe is special because it uses a simple cake base that we divide into three portions and adapt into the trio of flavors. The fresh strawberry puree in the pink layer really makes it pop! It’s also a great way to use up those gorgeous summer berries.
Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious baking adventures! This helps support my passion.
Ingredients Needed for This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
For the Vanilla Layer:
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Chocolate Layer:
- Same base ingredients as vanilla layer
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Strawberry Layer:
- Same base ingredients as vanilla layer
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1/4 teaspoon pink food coloring (optional, for enhanced color)
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
How to Make This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
- Prepare the Vanilla Layer: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9 inch round cake pan. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add milk, oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat until well combined. Pour one third of the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer: In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Add milk, oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat until well combined. Prepare another 9 inch round cake pan. Pour one third of original vanilla batter in separate bowl and add cocoa mix. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Strawberry Layer: In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add milk oil, vanilla extract, pink coloring, and eggs. Beat until well combined. Fold in the strawberry puree gently. Prepare another 9 inch round cake pan. Pour one third of vanilla batter in separate bowl and add strawberry puree. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: In a large bowl, beat softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake: Once cakes are completely cool, trim the tops to level them if needed. Place the vanilla layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread with a layer of buttercream frosting. Carefully place the chocolate layer on top of the vanilla layer and frost. Finally, top with the strawberry layer and remaining frosting.
- Decorate: Garnish with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles, as desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve and enjoy this beautiful Strawberry Chocolate Cheesecake inspired treat.
How to Serve This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
Serve this layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake chilled. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh strawberries makes a lovely presentation. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat. Consider offering a selection of fresh berries on the side for guests to add to their slice. If you’re feeling ambitious, try a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
How to Store This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze individual slices of cake for longer storage. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. Frozen cake will last for up to 2 to 3 months.
- Reheating (Thawing): Thaw frozen cake slices in the refrigerator overnight.
- Shelf Life: Due to the fresh strawberries and buttercream frosting, this cake is best consumed within a few days.
Tips to Make This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: You could use almond extract instead of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Greek yogurt can replace some of the milk in the cake batter for added moisture.
- Success Tips: Ensure your butter is softened for the frosting for a smooth, creamy texture. Measure flour accurately, spooning and leveling instead of scooping, to avoid dry cake.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Overbaking the cakes can result in a dry texture. Be careful not to overmix the batter, which can lead to a tough cake.
- Pro Tips: For a more intense strawberry flavor, macerate the strawberries with a little sugar before pureeing. Chill the cake layers before frosting for easier handling. If you enjoy chocolate, also consider trying recipe for Chocolate Cherry Layer Cake 2!
Helpful Notes for This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
- Strawberry Details: Using a high quality vanilla extract makes a difference in flavor.
- Equipment Recommendations: A stand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar easier, but a hand mixer works well too. Ensure the cake pans are well greased to prevent sticking.
- Extra Clarifications: The pink food coloring is optional but helps to enhance the color of the strawberry layer, especially if your strawberries are not deeply colored.
Variation of This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: Adapt the fruit layer with other seasonal berries like raspberries or blueberries.
- Optional Versions: Add chocolate chips to the vanilla or strawberry layers for added texture and flavor.
- Creative Modifications: Incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting for a tangier taste. Try making mini layered cakes for individual servings with Easy Strawberry Cake.
How do I keep my layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake from drying out?
Make sure not to overbake the cake layers. You can also brush the layers with a simple syrup before frosting for added moisture and wrap tightly before serving.
Can I use frozen strawberries in my layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Be sure to thaw and drain them well before incorporating them into the cake or frosting to avoid a soggy texture. Fresh strawberries will have a better flavor and texture, though.
What kind of frosting works best for this layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake?
A light and fluffy frosting like whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or a Swiss meringue buttercream pairs perfectly with the cake. The combination complements the lightness of the vanilla and strawberry layers while balancing the richness of the chocolate.
How long will leftover layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored, layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Conclusion
This layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake is a showstopper that is surprisingly simple to create. Its vibrant colors, moist texture, and irresistible combination of flavors will make it a hit at any gathering. Don’t be intimidated; bake up this delightful layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake today and experience a slice of homemade happiness. I’d love to hear what you think – drop a comment below and share your baking adventures!
Layered Vanilla Chocolate Strawberry Cake: The BEST Neapolitan Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A stunning layered vanilla chocolate strawberry cake recipe combining the classic Neapolitan flavors into a moist and delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1/4 teaspoon pink food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9 inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Vanilla Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together 2/3 of the flour, 2/3 of the sugar, 2/3 of baking powder and 2/3 of the salt. Add 2/3 of the milk, 2/3 of the oil, 2/3 of the vanilla extract, and 2/3 of the eggs. Beat until well combined. Pour one third of the batter into one prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer: In a bowl, whisk together 2/3 of the flour, 2/3 of the sugar, 2/3 of the baking powder, 2/3 of the salt, and the cocoa powder. Add 2/3 of the milk, 2/3 of the oil, 2/3 of the vanilla extract, and 2/3 of the eggs. Beat until well combined. Pour another third of vanilla batter in a separate bowl and add cocoa mix. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Strawberry Layer: In a bowl, whisk together 2/3 of the flour, 2/3 of the sugar, 2/3 of the baking powder and 2/3 of the salt. Add 2/3 of the milk, 2/3 of the oil, 2/3 of the vanilla extract, pink coloring, and 2/3 of the eggs. Beat until well combined. Fold in the strawberry puree gently. Pour the last third of the original vanilla batter in a separate bowl and add strawberry puree. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: In a large bowl, beat softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake: Once cakes are completely cool, trim the tops to level them if needed. Place the vanilla layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread with a layer of buttercream frosting. Carefully place the chocolate layer on top of the vanilla layer and frost. Finally, top with the strawberry layer and remaining frosting.
- Decorate: Garnish with fresh strawberries, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles, as desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Neapolitan cake, strawberry, chocolate, vanilla, layer cake