Go Back
To achieve that delightful strawberry flavor in your Lazy Sunday Neapolitan Cake, the first step is to prepare the strawberries. Start by washing about 1 cup of fresh strawberries thoroughly, removing the green tops. Cut them into halves or quarters to make pureeing easier. Place the strawberries in a blender or food processor and pulse until you reach a smooth puree. If desired, you can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any seeds, but this is optional.

Lazy Sunday Neapolitan Cake

Indulge in the vibrant world of desserts with the Lazy Sunday Neapolitan Cake, a delightful layered masterpiece that combines the classic flavors of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Perfect for celebrations or cozy family gatherings, this cake pleases both the eyes and the palate. With a simple preparation process, bakers of all levels can create a stunning treat. Explore the joy of baking and impress your guests with this colorful showstopper at your next event!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Vanilla Layer:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

For the Chocolate Layer:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

2 tsp baking powder

¼ cup cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

For the Strawberry Layer:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 cup pureed strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen)

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

½ cup cocoa powder

2 tbsp milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream (for whipped topping)

For Decoration:

Fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

    Vanilla Layer Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and mix well. Gradually add 1 ½ cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth. Pour the batter into one of the prepared cake pans.

      Chocolate Layer Preparation: In a separate bowl, repeat the creaming process with butter and sugar. Mix in eggs, milk, and vanilla. Combine the cocoa powder with the flour, then add to the wet mixture along with baking powder and salt. Pour into the second prepared pan.

        Strawberry Layer Preparation: In another mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Then add in eggs and pureed strawberries. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until everything is well combined. Carefully pour the batter into the last pan.

          Bake the Layers: Place all three pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow all layers to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

            Frosting Preparation: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well. Add milk and vanilla, and mix until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. For a lighter texture, whip the heavy cream separately until peaks form and fold it into the frosting mixture.

              Assemble the Cake: Place the vanilla layer on a cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Next, add the chocolate layer, spread more frosting, and finish with the strawberry layer. Use the remaining frosting to frost the sides and top of the cake.

                Decorate: Top the cake with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.

                  Chill & Serve: Let the cake chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing; this helps the layers set. Cut into slices and serve with a side of fresh fruit or ice cream, if desired.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 12 servings