The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

Discover the vibrant flavors of The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe, featuring vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry delights, perfect for any occasion. These cookies are not only visually striking but also a treat for your taste buds. With their colorful layers and delicious flavors, they are ideal for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Colorful Presentation: The three-layer design makes these cookies a showstopper at any event.
• Delicious Flavor Combo: Enjoy the delightful blend of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have fresh cookies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for birthdays, holidays, or just because—everyone will love them!
• Fun for Kids: Involve the little ones in rolling the dough; it’s a fun activity for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To create The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools for an easy baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Food processor
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ideal for achieving a creamy texture when mixing butter and sugar.
• Food processor: Perfectly pulverizes freeze-dried strawberries into powder for vibrant color.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution while baking the cookies.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy on the bottom.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 2 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (364 g)
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt

For Strawberry Layer

• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (measured before pulsing)

For Chocolate Layer

• 2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder

Other Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature, about 227 g)
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar (350 g)
• 1 large egg
• 1 large yolk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 or 3 drops red food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles or granulated sugar (for rolling)

How to Make The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Adjust an oven rack to the middle of the oven and preheat to 350F [180C]. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Strawberries

In a food processor, pulverize the freeze-dried strawberries into a powder.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy, about 1 minute. Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the egg, yolk, and vanilla extract; beat until combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the flour mixture gradually while beating on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Divide Dough

Dump the dough onto a work surface and divide it into three equal portions.

Step 7: Make Strawberry Dough

Add one-third of the dough back into the mixer. Incorporate the powdered strawberries and optional food coloring. Mix on low speed until well combined. Remove this layer of dough from the mixer and wipe out the bowl.

Step 8: Make Chocolate Dough

Add another third of the dough to the mixer. Mix in cocoa powder on low speed until combined.

Step 9: Shape Cookies

Pinch a small portion (about 1/2 oz [15 g]) from each dough color. Press them together gently to form layered shapes. Roll each piece into a cookie scoop or ball, then roll in sprinkles or granulated sugar.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Place 6 or 7 cookies on each sheet pan. Bake one pan at a time while rotating halfway through cooking. The cookies should be set around the edges and puffed up after about 10 to 11 minutes.

Step 11: Cool Cookies

Transfer each sheet pan to a wire rack. Let cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before removing them to cool completely on the wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious creations!

How to Serve The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

These colorful cookies are not only a treat for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Milk

• A classic choice, serving these cookies with cold milk enhances their flavors and provides a delicious contrast.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy your Neapolitan cookies with a warm cup of coffee. The richness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• For an indulgent dessert, sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This creates a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.

Gift Packaging

• Present these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as gifts. They make for a charming and thoughtful treat for friends and family.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside fruit or nuts for a beautiful dessert spread at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for baking success.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to sit out before mixing. This helps achieve a better texture in your dough.
• Measure flour accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method to avoid too much flour, which can make cookies dry.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This helps enhance flavor and shape.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake to prevent over-baking, which can lead to hard cookies.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

Complementing your Neapolitan cookies with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Berries: Serve mixed berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies, making it an excellent side dish.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits. This adds creaminess and crunch that pairs well with cookie sweetness.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Melt dark or white chocolate for dipping fruits or even chunks of cookie. It’s fun and interactive!
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crunchy cookie exterior.
6. Nut Medley: Offer a mix of roasted nuts like almonds and cashews for added crunch and flavor diversity alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Neapolitan cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Skipping the chilling step can result in flat cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
• Using Old Ingredients: Stale baking soda or expired ingredients can affect your cookie’s rise and flavor. Always check expiration dates for freshness.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature Accuracy: An inaccurate oven temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

• Freeze individually wrapped cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain freshness.

Reheating The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350F (180C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covered, for around 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What makes The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe unique?

The combination of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry flavors makes these cookies visually appealing and deliciously diverse.

Can I customize the flavors in The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap out the strawberry powder for other freeze-dried fruits or use different flavored extracts.

How do I ensure my cookies are soft?

To achieve soft cookies, avoid overbaking them and consider underbaking slightly. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

How long do The Best Neapolitan Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week at room temperature or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe is not only visually stunning but also offers a delightful mix of flavors that cater to everyone’s taste buds. This recipe is perfect for celebrations or just as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize with your favorite flavors or toppings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 41 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of The Best Neapolitan Cookies Recipe, where vibrant layers of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry come together to create a visually stunning and delicious treat. These colorful cookies are perfect for any occasion—be it birthdays, holidays, or simply a sweet snack at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily whip up these treats that will surely impress your family and friends. The fun of layering flavors makes this recipe not just a joy to bake but also an engaging activity to share with kids. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or packaged as gifts—this cookie recipe is versatile and sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large yolk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
• 2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
3. Pulverize freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until powdered.
4. Cream butter and sugar in a stand mixer until light and fluffy; add egg, yolk, and vanilla.
5. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until combined.
6. Divide dough into three equal portions; add strawberry powder to one portion, cocoa powder to another.
7. Shape each color into small rounds, layering them together before rolling in sprinkles or sugar.
8. Bake for about 10-11 minutes until edges are set; cool on wire racks.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 66
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 32mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 11mg