Neapolitan Cream Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Triple Flavor Delight: Enjoy three classic flavors in every bite.
• Impressive Layers: The layered design is visually stunning and perfect for entertaining.
• Customizable: You can adjust the flavors or colors to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, a party, or just a sweet treat, these cupcakes shine.
• Fun to Make: Great for involving kids or friends in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cupcake Batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup fresh strawberry puree (about 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, blended)

For the Neapolitan Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
• 1/3 cup melted dark chocolate
• 1/3 cup fresh strawberry puree

For Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Cupcake Batter:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

Create the Neapolitan Layers:

1. Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.
2. Stir cocoa powder into the first bowl for the chocolate layer.
3. Fold strawberry puree into the second bowl for the strawberry layer.
4. Leave the third bowl plain for the vanilla layer.
5. Layer 1 tbsp of chocolate batter, followed by vanilla, then strawberry batter in each cupcake liner, filling about 3/4 full.

Bake the Cupcakes:

1. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Neapolitan Frosting:

1. Beat softened butter until creamy in a large bowl.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy.
4. Divide frosting into three bowls:
   • Mix melted dark chocolate into one for chocolate frosting.
   • Fold strawberry puree into the second for strawberry frosting.
   • Leave the third plain for vanilla frosting.

Assemble the Cupcakes:

1. Using a piping bag, layer or swirl the three frostings on each cupcake.
2. Garnish with a fresh strawberry or chocolate shavings as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 12 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Colorful Twist: Add food coloring to enhance the strawberry and vanilla layers.
• Flavor Swaps: Substitute strawberry puree with raspberry or cherry puree.
• Mini Cupcakes: Make mini versions by adjusting baking time to 10-12 minutes.
• Single Frosting: Use one frosting flavor if you prefer simplicity.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
• Reheating: Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

FAQs

How do I make the strawberry puree?

Blend fresh or frozen strawberries until smooth. Strain for a finer texture if desired.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, but homemade frosting provides the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the layers from mixing?

Spoon each layer gently and evenly, and avoid overfilling the liners.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to substitute the regular flour.

What’s the best way to pipe the frosting?

Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a professional swirl effect.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake immediately after preparing the batter for optimal texture.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches as needed.

How do I achieve evenly baked cupcakes?

Ensure your oven is preheated and bake in the center of the oven.

Are these cupcakes suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Kids will love the fun layers and flavors.

Conclusion

Neapolitan Cream Cupcakes are a show-stopping treat that combines chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry in a beautifully layered cupcake. Easy to make, customizable, and bursting with flavor, they’re the perfect addition to any dessert table. Whether for a party or a cozy family night, these cupcakes are sure to impress and delight!

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