Layered Custard Cake Recipe

Layered Custard Cake Recipe

Introduction

A Layered Custard Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that brings together the creamy decadence of custard with the softness and sweetness of a sponge cake. This dessert is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or as an impressive finish to any meal. The delicate layers of light, fluffy cake paired with silky smooth custard create a dessert that melts in your mouth and leaves you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe provides clear steps to help you create a memorable treat that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

This layered custard cake showcases the classic combination of cake and custard—a combination beloved by many across the globe. The smooth, velvety custard filling is the star, enveloping layers of tender sponge cake in its comforting embrace. With a few basic ingredients, you’ll be able to create an extraordinary dessert that will impress your friends and family.

History of Custard Cake

Custard has been used as a filling or topping in European desserts since the 14th century. Originally, custard was a simple dish made from eggs, milk, and sugar, and it has evolved into countless varieties over the years. The custard cake, a dessert that incorporates custard between layers of sponge cake or other types of cake, likely emerged as people became more inventive with desserts in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Layered cakes themselves have been a significant part of many Western baking traditions. The combination of a sponge or butter cake with a creamy filling made custard a natural addition. Cakes like this are especially popular in Europe, with countries like Italy, France, and Germany boasting their own variations. Whether it’s served during holidays or family gatherings, a layered custard cake continues to be a showstopper for dessert tables around the world.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Custard:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 large egg yolks
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Pinch of salt

For Assembly:

• 1/4 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh berries or fruit for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
   • Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Once done, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pans.
2. Prepare the Custard:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
   • While the milk is heating, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl until smooth and pale.
   • Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
   • Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Continue stirring until the butter is melted and the custard is smooth.
   • Let the custard cool for about 10-15 minutes before using.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once the cakes have cooled completely, use a serrated knife to slice each cake in half horizontally to create four layers of cake.
   • Place the first layer of cake on your serving platter. Spread a layer of custard over the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
   • Add the second layer of cake, followed by another layer of custard. Repeat until all the layers are stacked.
   • For the top layer, spread a thin layer of whipped cream or extra custard and garnish with fresh berries or powdered sugar, if desired.
4. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours, allowing the custard to set and the layers to meld together.
   • Once chilled, slice and serve. Enjoy!

Methods of Cooking Layered Custard Cake:

1. Baking the Cake: The cake layers are baked in the oven, creating a light and airy texture. The sponge cake is ideal for absorbing the custard and holding the layers together.
2. Making Custard: The custard is cooked on the stovetop and then cooled to a spreadable consistency. It’s essential to stir constantly to prevent it from curdling and to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
3. Assembling the Cake: The cake is assembled by layering custard between the soft sponge cake, making sure each layer is even and smooth to create a beautiful, neat finish.

Benefits of Layered Custard Cake:

1. Rich in Nutrients: The custard filling is a source of protein from the eggs and vitamins A and D from the milk. It also contains healthy fats from butter and cream.
2. Versatile and Customizable: You can make this dessert lighter by using skim milk or even a dairy-free version with almond or oat milk. The layers can also be flavored with different extracts or zest to add variety.
3. Satisfying Dessert: Due to the combination of cake and custard, this dessert is both filling and indulgent. It’s perfect for those who love sweet, creamy, and rich desserts.
4. Great for Special Occasions: The layered nature of the cake makes it an impressive dessert for celebrations, and the mild, creamy custard is usually a crowd-pleaser.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Fat: ~18g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugars: ~30g
• Sodium: ~150mg

(These values are estimates based on average serving sizes and ingredients used. Exact values may vary.)

Conclusion

The Layered Custard Cake is a showstopper dessert that combines simple ingredients to create an elegant and indulgent treat. From the soft, moist cake layers to the creamy custard filling, this dessert is perfect for anyone who enjoys classic, comforting sweets. Whether served at a family gathering, birthday celebration, or as an afternoon indulgence, this cake will surely be a crowd favorite.

Lovers of Layered Desserts

If you’re a lover of layered cakes, custard-based desserts, or rich, creamy sweets, then this cake is perfect for you. The combination of light sponge cake and luxurious custard makes this dessert irresistible for those who appreciate classic and indulgent treats. Additionally, this cake can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults, making it a versatile choice for gatherings and parties.

This dessert will delight those who enjoy making desserts that are both visually impressive and delicious. With a little patience in assembling the layers, you’ll have a stunning and scrumptious layered custard cake that everyone will love!

Give this recipe a try and experience the bliss of a homemade custard cake with a delightful custard filling!