This Gluten-Free Neapolitan Cake is a delightful twist on the classic tricolor dessert we all know and love. Combining the nostalgic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in gorgeous layers, this Swiss Cake inspired creation delivers all the traditional taste without the gluten. Perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or whenever you want to impress your guests with something both beautiful and accommodating to dietary needs.
Nutritional Benefits
Before diving into the recipe, let’s look at what makes this Gluten-Free Neapolitan Cake a better option for those with dietary restrictions. By using alternative flours and carefully selected ingredients, we’ve created a dessert that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture.
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
Creating the perfect Neapolitan Cake starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and potential alternatives if you’re working with different dietary restrictions:
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Flour Blend | Base for cake structure | Cup-for-cup GF blend, almond flour + tapioca starch blend |
| Xanthan Gum | Binding agent | Guar gum, psyllium husk |
| Unsalted Butter | Moisture and richness | Coconut oil, dairy-free butter |
| Granulated Sugar | Sweetness and structure | Coconut sugar, monk fruit sweetener |
| Eggs | Structure and binding | Flax eggs (for each egg: 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water) |
| Vanilla Extract | Flavor for vanilla layer | Vanilla bean paste, almond extract |
| Cocoa Powder | Chocolate layer flavor | Carob powder, cacao powder |
| Freeze-dried Strawberries | Natural strawberry flavor | Strawberry extract + red food coloring, strawberry jam |
| Cream Cheese | Frosting base | Dairy-free cream cheese, mascarpone |
| Heavy Cream | Frosting lightness | Coconut cream, whipped aquafaba |
Equipment Needed
Gathering the right tools will make creating this beautiful Vintage Cakes inspired design much easier:
– 3 8-inch round cake pans
– Parchment paper
– Stand mixer or hand mixer
– Mixing bowls (at least 3)
– Rubber spatula
– Offset spatula for frosting
– Cake turntable (optional but helpful)
– Food processor (for pulverizing freeze-dried strawberries)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cooling racks
– Serrated knife for leveling (if needed)
– Piping bags and tips for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cake Layers
1. Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of gluten-free flour blend, 1 tsp xanthan gum (if your flour doesn’t already contain it), 1 tbsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In your stand mixer, beat 1 cup unsalted butter with 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry: Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with 1 cup of milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Divide Batter: Separate the batter equally into three bowls (about 2 cups each).
7. Flavor Each Layer:
– Vanilla layer: Add 2 tsp vanilla extract to one bowl
– Chocolate layer: Mix 1/3 cup cocoa powder with the second bowl
– Strawberry layer: Fold in 1/3 cup pulverized freeze-dried strawberries and a few drops of pink food coloring (optional) to the third bowl
8. Bake: Pour each batter into its own prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Cool: Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Making the Frosting
1. Beat Cream Cheese: In your stand mixer, beat 12 oz softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Incorporate Cream: With mixer on low, slowly add 1½ cups heavy cream. Once incorporated, increase speed and whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Divide: Separate frosting into three bowls. Leave one white, add cocoa powder to the second, and add pulverized freeze-dried strawberries to the third.
Assembly
1. Level Cakes: If needed, use a serrated knife to level the tops of each cake layer.
2. First Layer: Place the chocolate layer on your cake plate. Spread a thin layer of chocolate frosting on top.
3. Middle Layer: Add the vanilla layer and spread with vanilla frosting.
4. Top Layer: Finish with the strawberry layer.
5. Crumb Coat: Apply a thin coat of frosting around the entire Gluten-Free Neapolitan Cake to seal in crumbs. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Final Decoration: Using your remaining frosting, create a beautiful Trending Cake Designs inspired finish. You can do a simple smooth finish or create a more elaborate design with piping techniques for a true Fancy Cakes effect.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Cake too dry? Gluten-free cakes can sometimes be drier than traditional cakes. Add an extra egg or 1/4 cup of applesauce to the batter for more moisture.
– Layers not even? Use a kitchen scale to ensure equal amounts of batter in each pan.
– Frosting too soft? If your frosting isn’t holding its shape, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before continuing.
– Colors not vibrant enough? For a more dramatic appearance, consider adding a small amount of food coloring to each layer.
– Pro tip: Freeze your cake layers for 30 minutes before frosting – this makes them easier to work with and reduces crumbs.
– Creating clean slices: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut for picture-perfect slices of your Ribbon Cake.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Make ahead: Cake layers can be baked up to 2 days in advance. Wrap cooled layers in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.
– Freezing unfrosted layers: Wrap well and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
– Storing the finished cake: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
– Freezing slices: Individual slices can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Conclusion
This Gluten-Free Neapolitan Cake brings together the nostalgic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a stunning dessert that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply want to try something new, this Swiss Cake inspired creation delivers on both flavor and presentation. The beautiful layered effect makes it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion where you want to impress with your baking skills. Don’t be intimidated by the multiple components—by following the steps carefully, you’ll create a showstopper that tastes as good as it looks!
FAQ
Can I make this cake dairy-free as well as gluten-free?
Yes! Replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free butter, and use coconut cream for the frosting instead of heavy cream and cream cheese.
How far in advance can I make this cake?
The complete cake can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Individual layers can be made up to a month ahead and frozen.
Why use freeze-dried strawberries instead of fresh?
Freeze-dried strawberries provide intense flavor without adding excess moisture, which can affect the cake’s structure. They also give a more vibrant color to the cake and frosting.
Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake?
Absolutely! Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and reduce baking time to 18-20 minutes. You can even do a small amount of each batter in each cupcake liner for a true Neapolitan Cake effect in each cupcake.
My cake seems dry. What happened?
Gluten-free flours absorb moisture differently than traditional flour. Make sure you’re not overbaking, and consider adding an extra egg or a bit of applesauce for moisture in your next attempt.
How do I achieve those perfect cake layers?
For even layers, use a kitchen scale to divide your batter equally. Bake all layers on the same rack if possible, or rotate halfway through baking time if using multiple racks.
Can I use this recipe for a child’s birthday? Is it a good choice for a February Cake celebration?
This makes an excellent Girly Cakes option for birthdays any time of year, including February celebrations. The colorful layers are always a hit with children!
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