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As summer fades and the back-to-school season approaches, families everywhere begin to prepare for a fresh start filled with new routines, learning experiences, and, of course, the joy of preparing special treats. The excitement of the first day of school often calls for a celebratory dessert that not only delights children but also brings a sense of nostalgia to adults. This year, consider whipping up a batch of Neapolitan Cake Bites—an irresistible blend of flavors and colors that are perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or as a festive treat for family gatherings.

Back-to-School Neopolitan Cake Bites

Get ready for a sweet back-to-school treat with Neapolitan Cake Bites! These vibrant mini cakes combine the classic flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into bite-sized bliss, perfect for lunches or after-school snacks. Easy to make and visually appealing, they capture the excitement of new beginnings. With layered colors and irresistible taste, these cake bites are sure to bring joy and nostalgia to kids and adults alike! Enjoy baking and bonding with family as you create this delightful dessert.
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Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 large eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

For the Neapolitan Layers:

1/3 cup cocoa powder (for the chocolate layer)

1/3 cup strawberry puree (for the strawberry layer)

1/3 cup vanilla cake batter (from above)

For the Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 cups powdered sugar

2 tbsp milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

Red and brown food coloring (optional, for tinting frosting)

For Garnish:

Chocolate sprinkles (for the chocolate layer)

Fresh strawberries, sliced (for the strawberry layer)

Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan well to ensure easy removal of the baked cake.

    Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet batter, alternating with the milk. Stir until just blended; be careful not to overmix.

        Divide the Batter: Take the cake batter and divide it equally into three separate bowls. In the first bowl, add the cocoa powder to create the chocolate layer; in the second bowl, mix in the strawberry puree for the strawberry layer. Leave the third bowl as your original vanilla batter.

          Layer the Batter: Begin by pouring the vanilla layer into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Carefully add the chocolate layer on top of the vanilla, followed by the strawberry layer. For a marbled effect, take a knife and gently swirl through the layers without fully mixing them.

            Bake the Cake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

              Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. If desired, divide the frosting into three smaller bowls, tinting one red for the strawberry, one brown for the chocolate, and leaving one plain for vanilla.

                Cut the Cake: After cooling, carefully lift the cake out from the pan and set it on a cutting board. Cut into bite-sized squares, approximately 1-2 inches each.

                  Frost the Bites: Dip the top of each cake bite into the appropriate frosting. Half of the bites should be dipped in the red strawberry frosting, half in the brown chocolate frosting, and some should remain unfrosted for the vanilla option.

                    Garnish: Enhance the chocolate bites with chocolate sprinkles and the strawberry bites with fresh strawberry slices. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side, if desired.

                      Serve and Enjoy: Arrange your beautifully decorated Neapolitan Cake Bites on a platter and enjoy them as a delightful and colorful after-school treat!

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 1 hr | 24 cake bites