Vanilla Custard Cake Recipe

Name: Vanilla Custard Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup granulated sugar; 4 large egg yolks; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

Indulge in the delightful layers of our Vanilla Custard Cake, where each bite offers a creamy custard flavor enveloped in a moist cake.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:26:20.859Z

This Vanilla Custard Cake is a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion. The combination of fluffy cake layers and luscious custard filling will surely impress your family and friends.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Creamy custard filling that adds a delightful texture
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

A Vanilla Custard Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday dinner, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. Its elegant appearance and rich flavors make it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Imagine slicing into a beautifully layered cake, revealing a luscious custard filling that complements the moist cake. This dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself and your family to something special. The combination of textures and flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Tips for Baking Success

Baking a Vanilla Custard Cake may seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you'll be a pro in no time. First, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps the butter to cream more effectively and allows for a more uniform batter, leading to a fluffier cake.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and airy one. Lastly, always use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake. These simple steps will ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

Storing and Serving Your Cake

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Vanilla Custard Cake, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator, especially due to the custard filling. Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It should stay fresh for up to three days, though we doubt it will last that long!

When it comes time to serve, consider garnishing the cake with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an added touch of elegance. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the vanilla custard beautifully. Enjoy every slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

For the Custard

2 cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
4 large egg yolks
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp unsalted butter

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the recipe for a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until fully combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Prepare the Custard

In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar over medium heat until just simmering. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter. Let it cool.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, cut it in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of custard over the bottom half, then place the top half back on. Pour any remaining custard over the top of the cake.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Vanilla Custard Cake!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're wondering whether you can make this cake in advance, the answer is yes! You can bake the cake a day before and assemble it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dessert.

Another common question is about substitutions. If you’re looking to make a dairy-free version, you can replace the milk with almond milk or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the classic Vanilla Custard Cake, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! You can add lemon or orange zest to the custard for a refreshing citrus twist. Alternatively, try infusing the milk with chai spices for a cozy, spiced version of this cake.

For chocolate lovers, consider making a chocolate ganache to pour over the top of the cake instead of the custard. This adds a rich chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the vanilla. The possibilities are endless, making this cake a versatile base for your creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor extract?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

→ How long can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute, but the texture may differ slightly.