Homemade Neapolitan Millionaire Cake 🍓🍫🍰

Ingredients:

For the Vanilla Cake Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Chocolate Cake Layer:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Strawberry Cake Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup strawberry puree (from fresh or frozen strawberries)

For the Fillings and Frostings:

• 1 batch of your favorite caramel sauce
• 1 batch of your favorite chocolate ganache
• 1 batch of your favorite strawberry frosting

For Assembly:

• Fresh strawberries, for garnish (optional)
• Chocolate shavings or sprinkles, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vanilla Cake Layer:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layer:

Follow the same instructions as for the vanilla cake layer, but also add the cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Cake Layer:

Follow the same instructions as for the vanilla cake layer, but also add the strawberry puree to the wet ingredients.

4. Assemble the Neapolitan Cake:

1. Once all the cake layers are cooled, level them if necessary to ensure even layers.
2. Place the vanilla cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over the top.
3. Carefully place the chocolate cake layer on top of the caramel layer. Spread another thin layer of caramel sauce over the chocolate layer.
4. Place the strawberry cake layer on top of the caramel layer. Spread a thin layer of strawberry frosting over the strawberry layer.
5. Repeat the process, alternating layers and fillings, until all the cake layers are stacked.
6. Once assembled, frost the outside of the cake with strawberry frosting.
7. Drizzle chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
8. Garnish with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings or sprinkles, if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice and serve this homemade Neapolitan millionaire cake, and savor the delicious combination of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry flavors in every bite!

Note: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.