Description
Delight in this Classic Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake), a traditional German dessert featuring a soft, yeasty cake, a creamy custard filling, and a caramelized almond topping. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
- 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (70g) sliced almonds
For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) whole milk
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, whipped
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Knead until a smooth dough forms (about 5–7 minutes).
- Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Topping:
- In a saucepan, melt butter, sugar, honey, and cream over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add sliced almonds and cook for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Punch down the risen dough and press it evenly into the prepared pan.
- Spread the almond topping evenly over the dough.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a saucepan, heat milk and sugar over medium heat until steaming (do not boil).
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch. Gradually add the hot milk mixture while whisking. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla and let the custard cool completely. Fold in whipped cream.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Slice the cake horizontally into two layers. Spread the custard filling over the bottom layer.
- Place the top layer with the almond topping over the filling.
- Serve:
- Chill the cake for 1–2 hours before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the custard filling.
- Ensure the custard is completely cool before assembling to avoid melting the whipped cream.