If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that boasts the classic trio of flavors—chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla—you absolutely must try this Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe. It brings together layers of rich chocolate, sweet strawberry, and creamy vanilla cheesecakes all nestled in a buttery Oreo crust. Every bite offers a delightful combination of smooth, tangy, and sweet that feels like a hug on a plate. This cheesecake isn’t just beautiful to look at, it’s decadently delicious and perfect for any special occasion or when you simply want to treat yourself and your friends to something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a slice of cake with three layers on a white plate, which is on top of another white plate. The bottom layer is dark brown and looks dense and chocolaty with a slightly rough texture. Above that is a bright pink layer, smooth and creamy in texture. The top layer is a creamy off-white color and looks soft and light. In the background, the rest of the cake is visible, showing the same three layers and placed on parchment paper inside a dark pan. The setting includes a white marbled surface underneath and blurred books and green leaves in the background for a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role—whether it’s building a firm base, creating a velvety texture, or delivering those signature flavors and colors that make this cheesecake unforgettable.

3 ½ cups Oreo crumbs: These crushed cookies form a rich, chocolatey crust that adds crunch and depth.
4 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the Oreo crumbs into a sturdy and flavorful base.
2 tablespoons sugar: Enhances the sweetness in the crust for a balanced flavor.
4 bricks (32 oz) cream cheese, softened: The creamy heart of the cheesecake, providing that smooth, luscious texture.
1 2/3 cups sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake batter just right without overpowering it.
4 large egg yolks: Adds richness and helps set the cheesecake as it bakes.
2/3 cups heavy cream: Boosts creaminess for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
2/3 cups sour cream: Gives the cheesecake a slight tang that balances sweetness beautifully.
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch: Stabilizes and firms up the cheesecake layers.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors and deepens the taste.
1/3 of the cheesecake batter: To be divided for flavor layering.
1/3 cup melted chocolate chips: Infuses the chocolate layer with luscious cocoa flavor.
1/4 cup cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate goodness.
2 teaspoons strawberry flavoring: Adds that unmistakable sweet strawberry essence.
Pink food coloring: Brings the strawberry layer to a joyful rosy hue.

How to Make Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Mix the Oreo crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until you get a wet, sandy texture. Then, press this mixture into the pan bottom and a bit up the sides to form a ½ centimeter thick crust. Bake for 15 minutes, then set the crust aside to cool slightly—this will ensure a firm and flavorful base that holds the luscious cheesecake layers perfectly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar on medium-high speed for about 5 to 6 minutes until silky smooth—this is the creamy canvas for your Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe. Add in the egg yolks and keep mixing for another minute, then stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until well combined. Finally, add cornstarch and salt, mixing just until incorporated to give your cheesecake the perfect balance of creaminess and firmness.

Step 3: Divide and Flavor the Batter

Separate the batter into three equal bowls. In the first bowl, fold in the melted chocolate chips and cocoa powder until velvety and uniform. For the second bowl, stir in the strawberry flavoring and a few drops of pink food coloring to achieve that signature light pink hue of the strawberry layer. The third bowl remains plain, showcasing the classic vanilla layer that completes the trio.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Once the crust is cool, spoon the chocolate batter evenly on the bottom and smooth it out gently. Next, pour in the strawberry layer as evenly as possible and smooth its surface. Finally, top everything with the plain vanilla batter and smooth the top. This tri-layered masterpiece is what sets this cheesecake apart, blending those iconic Neapolitan flavors with elegance.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking with a Water Bath

Wrap the bottom and sides of your springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place it inside a larger pan and fill the larger pan with water halfway up the sides of the springform pan—this water bath keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents cracking. Bake at 350°F for 1 ½ hours. If you notice the top beginning to brown too much, tent it with foil. After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door closed for one hour to finish setting gently.

Step 6: Chill and Final Touches

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on a rack until it reaches room temperature. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least three hours or preferably overnight. When fully chilled and firm, carefully undeframe the springform pan, transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate or stand, slice, and get ready to indulge in the flavors of this irresistible Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe.

How to Serve Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe

The image shows a three-layer cheesecake slice on two stacked white plates with a white marbled surface underneath. The bottom layer is thick, dark brown and looks rich and dense. The middle layer is bright pink and creamy, sitting evenly on the bottom layer. The top layer is a light yellowish cream with a smooth surface and some tiny spots. In the background, the rest of the cheesecake is on a white plate with parchment paper, showing the same three layers clearly. A spoon with a bite of cake is held above the slice, showing all three layers in smaller form. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate your Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe even further. Try topping each slice with fresh strawberries for a natural sweetness that enhances the strawberry layer. You can also sprinkle a light dusting of cocoa powder on the chocolate section or pipe dollops of whipped cream around the edges for that extra fluff and flair.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich espresso or a fruity dessert wine to complement the trio of flavors. If you want to keep things lighter, serve it alongside a fresh berry salad to echo the strawberry layer and provide a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, consider serving your Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe on a tiered cake stand surrounded by mini neapolitan macarons or decorative chocolate curls. You can also slice the cheesecake into mini portions and serve in clear glasses layered with whipped cream and berries for a fancy, individual dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Neapolitan Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and creamy for up to five days. Covering it well prevents the cake from absorbing fridge odors and keeps the textures just right.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cheesecake slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight to preserve their luscious texture.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. Instead, bring it to room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to unlock its creamy, velvety flavors.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust instead of Oreo?

Absolutely! While the Oreo crust adds a delicious chocolate twist, you can substitute with graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits mixed with butter and sugar for a classic cheesecake crust.

Is it possible to use fresh strawberries instead of flavoring?

Yes, you can blend fresh strawberries into a puree and fold it into the batter, but keep in mind it may alter the texture and moisture content slightly. Adjust sweetness accordingly.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer? Can I use a hand mixer?

A hand mixer works just fine! Just make sure to beat the cream cheese and sugar until very smooth and lump-free for the best results.

Why is the cheesecake baked in a water bath?

The water bath helps the cheesecake to bake evenly and gently, preventing cracks and creating a silky texture by regulating the oven’s heat and moisture.

Can I make this Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free Oreo-style cookies or gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this dessert without worry.

Final Thoughts

This Neapolitan Cheesecake Recipe is truly a labor of love that rewards you with stunning layers of flavor and irresistible creaminess. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or just because you deserve a sweet treat, this cheesecake will quickly become a beloved classic in your dessert lineup. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you’ll enjoy devouring it—happy baking and even happier eating!