Description
Delight in the irresistible trio of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry with these Neapolitan Cream Cupcakes. Featuring stunning layers and a luscious swirl of Neapolitan frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for celebrations or sweet indulgences.
Ingredients
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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Create the Neapolitan Layers:
- Divide the batter into three bowls.
- Mix cocoa powder into one bowl for the chocolate layer.
- Fold strawberry puree into the second bowl for the strawberry layer.
- Leave the third bowl plain for the vanilla layer.
- Layer and Bake:
- Layer 1 tbsp of chocolate batter, followed by vanilla, then strawberry batter in each cupcake liner, filling about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for 5 minutes in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream until fluffy.
- Divide frosting into three bowls. Mix melted dark chocolate into one, fold strawberry puree into another, and leave the third plain.
- Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Using a piping bag, layer or swirl the three frostings on each cupcake.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings as desired.
Notes
- To enhance the colors, add a drop of food coloring to the strawberry and vanilla batters.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
