Follow these easy steps to create your perfect layered custard cake:
- Prepare the sponge cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Whisk the egg yolks: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ½ cup of sugar until pale and creamy. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined.
- Whisk the egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining ¼ cup of sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in egg whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter using a spatula. Be gentle to maintain the airy texture of the egg whites.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before removing them.
- Make the custard filling: While the cake is cooling, prepare the custard. In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens and starts to boil. Once it reaches a custard-like consistency, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated. Allow the custard to cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of custard filling over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down to seal. Spread the remaining custard filling over the top of the cake.
- Chill and serve: Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to allow the custard to set. Before serving, garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream if desired.
Serving and Storage
This layered custard cake is best served chilled, allowing the custard to set and the flavors to meld. It’s a great dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a special treat.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The cake will stay fresh for 2-3 days.
- Freezing: This cake can also be frozen if you want to make it ahead of time. After assembling, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your layered custard cake turns out perfectly:
- Make sure the cake layers are completely cool before assembling the cake. This helps prevent the custard from melting and makes it easier to cut.
- Don’t rush the custard process. Make sure to cook it gently and stir constantly to avoid any lumps. Once it thickens, remove it from the heat immediately to prevent curdling.
- Customize the filling: You can add flavors to the custard, such as a tablespoon of citrus zest (lemon or orange) or a splash of liqueur (like Grand Marnier) for an adult twist.
- For a lighter version: You can reduce the sugar in both the cake and custard, or use a low-fat milk substitute like almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use fresh fruit: Fresh fruit like berries, sliced strawberries, or kiwi can be used as a topping or layered into the custard for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
The layered custard cake is a delicious and elegant dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. Its soft sponge cake layers and creamy custard filling create the perfect balance of lightness and richness. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, this cake is sure to be a hit. With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can make this indulgent dessert at home and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite.
We hope you enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with your loved ones!
FAQ
- Can I use a store-bought custard mix instead of making it from scratch?
- Yes, you can use a store-bought custard mix to save time, but homemade custard adds a richer, fresher flavor to the cake.
- Can I make the cake ahead of time?
- Yes! You can bake the cake layers and prepare the custard a day ahead. Assemble the cake just before serving to keep the layers fresh and prevent the custard from getting too soft.
- Can I use a different flavor for the cake?
- Absolutely! You can experiment with different cake flavors, such as chocolate or coffee, to complement the custard. Just keep in mind that the custard works best with a neutral-flavored cake.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has the right texture and structure to mimic regular flour in sponge cake recipes.