Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

Prepare to be delighted by this drool-worthy Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake! It features a moist chocolate cake layer, sweet strawberry ice cream, refreshing vanilla bean ice cream, and a light whipped cream topping. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or any special occasion, this dessert is sure to impress with its vibrant layers and delicious flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Layers: Enjoy the rich combination of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavors that create a delightful experience in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake without fuss.
• Versatile Delight: This Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake is perfect for any occasion—birthdays, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Visually Stunning: The beautiful layers of color make this cake not only tasty but also a showstopper for any dessert table.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt the flavors by swapping out the ice creams to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve fluffy batters and whipped cream quickly and effortlessly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to prepare various components simultaneously without confusion.
• Spatula: A good spatula ensures even mixing and smooth spreading of batters and frostings.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (207g) sugar
– 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (43g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
– 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
– 3/4 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water
– 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
– 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
– 2 tbsp milk
– 4 tsp strawberry extract
– 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
– about 20 drops red food coloring
– 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
– 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
– 2 tbsp milk
– 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
– 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
– 1/2 cup (58g) powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your cake pans beforehand will ensure your cake comes out easily.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
2. Add in the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and boiling water.
3. Mix until well combined using an electric mixer on medium speed for about two minutes.
4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Make Strawberry Layer

In another bowl:
1. Beat together room temperature cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add milk and strawberry extract; mix until well combined.
3. Fold in half of the Cool Whip gently until incorporated.

Step 5: Make Vanilla Layer

Repeat similar steps as above:
1. In another bowl, beat together room temperature cream cheese with sugar until creamy.
2. Add milk along with vanilla bean paste and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Gently fold in remaining Cool Whip.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled:
1. Place one chocolate layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread strawberry mixture evenly over it.
3. Top with second chocolate layer followed by vanilla mixture on top.

Step 7: Finish with Whipped Cream

Spread remaining Cool Whip over the top of your layered cake for a beautiful finish. Use red food coloring creatively if desired for decoration.

Step 8: Chill Before Serving

Allow your Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before slicing into it for best results!

How to Serve Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

Serving your Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake can be as fun as making it! This dessert is perfect for various occasions and can be enhanced with delightful accompaniments and creative presentation styles.

For Birthday Celebrations

• Colorful Plates: Use vibrant plates that match the colors of the cake for a festive look.
• Candles on Top: Add candles for a birthday touch, making sure to light them before serving.

As a Refreshing Summer Treat

• Chilled Slices: Serve each slice chilled for a refreshing summer dessert that cools you down.
• Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh strawberries or raspberries to enhance flavor and presentation.

During Family Gatherings

• Family-Style Serving: Place the whole cake in the center of the table for a communal feel.
• Ice Cream Scoops: Offer extra scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side for those who want more.

For Holiday Parties

• Festive Decorations: Decorate with seasonal sprinkles or edible glitter to match holiday themes.
• Hot Chocolate Sauce: Serve warm hot chocolate sauce alongside for drizzling over each slice.

How to Perfect Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

Perfecting your Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake requires attention to detail and some handy tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Choice of Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and real vanilla bean paste for richer flavors.
• Chill Between Layers: Allow each layer of ice cream to set properly in the freezer before adding the next layer.
• Whip Cream Properly: Ensure your whipping cream is cold before whipping it to achieve stiff peaks, making it easier to spread.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Decorate Creatively: Finish with colorful sprinkles or chocolate shavings on top for an eye-catching finish.

Best Side Dishes for Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

Pairing delicious side dishes with your Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake can elevate any gathering. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dessert beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These provide a sweet-salty crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy cake.
3. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes offer a delightful alternative texture while still being indulgent.
4. Coffee or Espresso Shots: The bitterness of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweetness of ice cream cake.
5. Homemade Cookies: Offer a selection of cookies like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin for added variety.
6. Nutty Granola Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruits in cups for a crunchy complement to the smooth ice cream cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the cooling step: Always allow your chocolate cake to cool completely before adding ice cream. This prevents melting and helps maintain layers.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Opt for good quality cocoa powder, ice cream, and cream cheese. This enhances flavor and texture in your Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science! Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts to ensure the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined when making the cake batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake that doesn’t rise well.
• Ignoring food coloring: If you want vibrant colors, add food coloring gradually. It’s easier to darken than to lighten your ice cream layers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It is best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a nonstick skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake.

How can I customize my Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake?

You can easily swap out flavors of ice cream or add mix-ins like nuts or sprinkles to personalize your cake!

Can I use homemade ice cream for my Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake?

Absolutely! Homemade ice cream can add a unique touch and flavor depth that complements your cake beautifully.

What should I do if my cake layers are too thick?

If your layers turned out thick, try slicing them horizontally to create thinner layers. This will help with layering the ice cream more effectively.

How long does it take to set after assembling?

Allow the assembled Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake to set in the freezer for at least 4 hours before serving. This helps keep everything intact while slicing.

Final Thoughts

The Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can experiment with different flavors or toppings based on your preferences. It’s perfect for birthdays or any special occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this amazing recipe and customize it to make it uniquely yours!

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Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful layers of our Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake, a perfect fusion of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla that will impress at any gathering. This cake features a rich chocolate base topped with creamy strawberry and vanilla ice cream layers, all finished off with a light whipped cream topping. It’s not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether it’s for birthdays, summer parties, or just a sweet treat at home, this Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake is sure to be a hit!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (207g) sugar
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (43g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 3/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 4 tsp strawberry extract
• 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
• about 20 drops red food coloring
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
• 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/2 cup (58g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Add egg, buttermilk, oil, vanilla extract, and boiling water; mix until well combined.
3. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 30–40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
4. For the strawberry layer: Beat cream cheese with sugar; add milk and strawberry extract; fold in half the Cool Whip.
5. For the vanilla layer: Repeat the process using vanilla bean paste and extract.
6. Assemble by layering chocolate cake with strawberry mixture, followed by another layer of chocolate cake topped with vanilla mixture.
7. Finish with remaining Cool Whip on top and chill for at least two hours before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg