Delicious Neapolitan Pound Cake recipe for Foodies!
Welcome to my Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe! Imagine a delicious, moist and flavorful pound cake with swirls of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is perfect for any occasion – from a cozy Sunday brunch with your family to a festive dessert table at a party.
As a chef, I’ve always loved the challenge of creating recipes that my clients and readers would love. And let me tell you, this Neapolitan Pound Cake is no exception. In fact, it’s become one of my personal favorites over the years.
I remember enjoying Neapolitan ice cream as a kid, a classic flavor combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry all in one bowl. And as an adult, I wanted to recreate that nostalgic feeling in the form of an irresistible cake. And so, after countless experiments in my kitchen, I managed to find the perfect balance of flavors and texture to elevate the classic Neapolitan combo into a stunning cake.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and easy to follow. You’ll love how simple it is to make, without any fancy equipment or complicated steps. Plus, you can customize it to your liking with different frosting options or even gluten-free versions.
So go ahead and indulge in some classic Neapolitan flavors with my Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe. It’s sure to be everyone’s favorite at your next gathering or party!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I know for a fact that once you try my Neapolitan Pound Cake recipe, it will become your new favorite cake. This classic Neapolitan bundt cake is moist, flavorful, and packed with a delicious combination of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate flavors.
The best part about this cake is that it’s incredibly easy to make using just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Not only is this cake delectable and visually stunning, but it also has a rich history. The famous Elvis Presley was known to be a big fan of the neapolitan pound cake, making it his all-time favorite dessert.
My recipe incorporates Nesquik powder mix to give it the traditional neapolitan flavors as well as cream cheese to add richness and creaminess to the batter. The result is a soft and tender cake with just the right amount of sweetness.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion – from birthdays to potlucks to holiday parties – and is sure to impress your friends and family. The beautiful three-layered bundt cake also makes for an elegant dessert centerpiece.
So why limit yourself to plain old vanilla or chocolate cakes? Step outside of your baking comfort zone and try this mouthwatering neapolitan pound cake recipe that will make everyone say “Wow!”
Ingredient List
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you need:
Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 (3 1/4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup Nesquik Neapolitan strawberry/vanilla/chocolate powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go before proceeding with the recipe instruction in section (4) The Recipe How-To.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all our ingredients ready and set up, it’s time to start making our Neapolitan Pound Cake! This recipe is based on a traditional pound cake recipe but with a twist of classic neapolitan flavors of strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate. The best thing about this recipe is that it looks impressive but is so easy to make. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
– Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Step 2: Prep the Bundt Pan
– Grease or spray a bundt pan generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
– In a large bowl, mix one package of white cake mix, one cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 2/3 cup of water, and one cup of milk until blended.
– Add in four large eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition.
– Lastly, stir in one tablespoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Divide the Batter into Three Parts
– Divide the cake batter into three equal parts using separate bowls.
– One bowl will be for the strawberry batter; add two tablespoons of Nesquik strawberry syrup and stir well.
– One bowl for vanilla batter; keep as is.
– One bowl for chocolate batter; add two tablespoons of Nesquik chocolate syrup and stir well.
Step 5: Layer the Batter into the Bundt Pan
1. Add spoonfuls of strawberry batter to cover the bottom surface of the bundt pan.
2. Scoop spoonfuls of vanilla batter on top of the strawberry layer but do not touch the sides.
3. Repeat for chocolate layer by adding spoonfuls on top without touching sides.
4. Keep alternating each flavor until you run out of batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake for 55-60 Minutes
– Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes.
– Check if the cake is ready by inserting a toothpick in the center of cake: it should come out clean.
– Leave the cake to cool for 15 minutes.
– Then, run a knife along the edges of the bundt pan before inverting gently onto a wire rack to finish cooling.
And there you have it – your delicious Neapolitan Pound Cake is ready to serve! With its beautiful striped pattern, it is sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy it plain or accompany with whipped cream, ice cream or fresh fruit!
Substitutions and Variations
This Neapolitan Pound Cake recipe is so versatile that you can easily make substitutions and variations based on your preferences or availability of ingredients. Here are some ideas:
– Gluten-free Neapolitan Pound Cake: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular white cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
– Zebra Bundt Cake: Make a zebra bundt cake by following Helen Goh’s recipe that alternates between the chocolate and white batter.
– Loaf cake: You can use a loaf pan instead of a bundt pan, but keep in mind that it will change the baking time.
– Different flavors: While this recipe calls for vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate variations, feel free to experiment with other flavors like lemon, orange, or raspberry by simply swapping out the Nesquik powder for another flavor.
– Ice cream pairing: For an extra special dessert, pair a slice of warm Neapolitan Pound Cake with your favorite ice cream. Yotam Ottolenghi pairs his pound cake with strawberry and creme fraiche ice cream for a luxurious treat.
Remember that substitutions may affect the texture and taste of the final product, so always use substitutions wisely. But don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize this already delicious Neapolitan Pound Cake recipe!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Neapolitan Pound Cake is fresh out of the oven, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This cake is so versatile and delicious that it pairs well with a variety of desserts and drinks.
For a classic Neapolitan experience, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or switch things up and add a scoop of strawberry or chocolate to create a Neapolitan sundae. The combination of sweet creaminess from the ice cream complement the cake’s soft texture and flavors perfectly.
If you’re looking for something more elegant, serve the cake with whipped cream and fresh berries such as strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries. This pairing not only adds freshness to your dessert but also adds a pop of color.
For a boozy twist, pair the Neapolitan Pound Cake with an espresso martini or coffee liqueur. The richness of the coffee flavor complements the subtle vanilla flavor in the cake.
While this cake satisfies any sweet tooth, it’s also versatile enough to go well with tea or coffee for a light afternoon snack. Whichever way you choose to serve this dessert; don’t forget its excellent ability to impress any guest by its voluptuous appearance and indulgent flavors.
Now that you have found the perfect way to best enjoy your Neapolitan Pound Cake, indulge yourself in this tasty dessert with just enough sweetness to make everybody sing like Elvis Presley.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Neapolitan Pound Cake is a great make-ahead dessert option. You can prepare it up to three days in advance, and it will still taste just as delicious as when it’s freshly baked. Once you’ve made the pound cake, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it.
Storing Neapolitan Pound Cake is easy. Simply wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. This will keep the cake fresh and moist for several days.
When reheating your pound cake, first remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will ensure that the cake has time to come up to room temperature and will taste its best when served. If you prefer your cake warm, you can also pop individual slices into the microwave or toaster oven for a few seconds to warm them up.
Finally, don’t forget that Neapolitan Pound Cake is a versatile dessert that can be served on its own or paired with other delicious treats. Try serving it with ice cream or whipped cream, or use it as a base for a fancy trifle dessert. Whatever you decide to do with your leftovers, they’re sure to be just as delicious as the original cake!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the ingredients ready for your Neapolitan Pound Cake recipe, it’s time to ensure the perfect outcome of your bake. Here are some tips for you to follow to avoid any flaw or mistake while baking this classic dessert.
1. Stick to the measurements
To achieve the perfect texture and taste, it is vital to measure each ingredient carefully and accurately. Use measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients accordingly.
2. Use room temperature ingredients
Make sure that all dairy ingredients like milk, cream cheese, and unsalted butter are at room temperature before you start baking. Room temperature ingredients blend much better, giving optimal results for your neapolitan pound cake.
3. Preheat the oven correctly
Preheat the oven to the recommended temperature mentioned in the recipe before you start preparing the batter. This allows for even baking throughout and prevents undercooked or overcooked spots.
4. Don’t over mix your batter
Mixing your batter too much can create a dense cake, so be cautious not to overdo it. Beat your mixture slowly and gently until well-combined; this will ensure a lighter texture in your final cake.
5. Let it cool entirely
Once out of the oven, allow your neapolitan pound cake to cool entirely in its bundt pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before turning it out of the pan. This will help prevent it from falling apart or crumbling when taken out of the pan.
By following these tips, you can surely make a beautiful and delicious Neapolitan Pound Cake with precision and perfection in no time!
FAQ
Now that you know how to make a delicious Neapolitan Pound Cake, it’s time to address some common questions that may come up during the cooking process. These frequently asked questions cover topics such as ingredient substitutions, variations on the recipe, and storage and reheating instructions. By addressing these concerns upfront, you can ensure that your pound cake comes out perfectly each and every time. So let’s dive into the FAQs!
What was Elvis Presley’s favorite cake?
There is a story that goes way back in time about a cake that was beloved by none other than the famous musician, Elvis Presley. This cake is said to have been made by his grandmother and was an incredibly delicious mix of juicy pineapple and crunchy pecans. It was a special treat reserved only for Elvis’ visits.
What is the difference between pound cake and bundt cake?
Have you ever wondered about the variance between a Pound Cake and a Bundt Cake? Contrary to Bundt cake, which can be any cake baked in a Bundt pan, Pound cakes have a unique distinction. Historically, they are markedly solid and typically contain a pound of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour.
Why is it called Elvis Presley pound cake?
According to food historians Jane and Michael Stern, who wrote for Saveur magazine, Elvis Presley’s love for traditional, home-style foods was widely recognized. Despite his wealth and ability to indulge in fancier cuisine, he never lost his appreciation for down-to-earth comfort food.
Why is my pound cake not moist?
When cakes turn out dry, there are a few possible reasons that could have caused it. It could be due to over-baking, or when there is an insufficient amount of butter or sugar provided, or when an excessive amount of flour is added. In such situations, it’s best to lower the baking temperature or remove the cake from the oven a bit earlier to make sure it stays moist and tender.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Neapolitan Pound Cake is the perfect dessert to satisfy any sweet tooth. It’s a classic cake recipe that we all know and love, but with a unique twist that will leave you wanting more. The combination of the strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate flavors creates a cake that truly stands out from the rest. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also looks stunning with its beautiful swirls of color.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking with different substitutions and variations. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be served at any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a fancy dinner party. This cake has even been known to be one of Elvis Presley’s favorite cakes, so you know it’s a recipe worth trying.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this Neapolitan Pound Cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. So why not give it a try? It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe book!
Neapolitan Pound Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 4 eggs
- 1 (410 g) package white cake mix
- 3/4 cup milk or 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup nesquik strawberry milk mix
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3/4 cup quick powdered chocolate milk mix
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° (325° for coloured fluted tube pan).
- Using solid shortening or margarine (not oil), grease and flour 12-cup fluted tube pan (non-stick finish pan, too).
- In large bowl, blend cream cheese and eggs until smooth.
- Blend in cake mix and milk.
- Beat 2 minutes at highest speed.
- Add strawberry milk drink mix to 2 cups batter; pour into prepared pan.
- Stir vanilla into 2 cups batter; pour over strawberry batter.
- Add chocolate milk drink mix to remaining batter; pour over vanilla batter.
- Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Cool upright in pan 45 minutes.
- Loosen edges; remove from pan.
- Cool completely.
- If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar or serve with ice cream and chocolate sauce.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.