Vanilla Custard Cake Recipe

Name: Vanilla Custard Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

Indulge in the creamy and rich flavors of this Vanilla Custard Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:30:20.548Z

This Vanilla Custard Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a soft sponge cake with a rich custard filling. It's a timeless classic that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor that comforts the soul
Creamy custard center that adds a delightful twist
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dessert

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

This Vanilla Custard Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece for any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party, holiday celebration, or a cozy family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. Its elegant appearance and delightful flavors make it the perfect choice for those who want to elevate their dessert game. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

The combination of a fluffy vanilla cake and a creamy custard filling creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Each bite is a sweet reminder of home and comfort. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as your friends and family savor each mouthful, asking for seconds and thirds!

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Vanilla Custard Cake turns out perfectly, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small discrepancies can affect the final product. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.

While baking, resist the urge to open the oven door frequently. This can cause the temperature to fluctuate, potentially leading to uneven baking. Instead, use the oven light to check on your cake. Lastly, allowing the cake to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This will help maintain the integrity of the custard filling and keep your layers beautifully intact.

Serving and Storing Your Cake

Once assembled, your Vanilla Custard Cake can be served immediately or stored for later. If you're preparing it ahead of time, consider assembling it just before serving to keep the cake layers fresh. Lightly dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a chocolate glaze for an elegant touch that enhances its visual appeal.

When it comes to storage, keep the cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. However, be mindful that the custard filling can soften the cake as it sits. If you plan to enjoy it over several days, you might prefer to store the layers and custard separately and assemble them as needed.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Custard Filling

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

Make the Custard Filling

In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the hot milk mixture to the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.

Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, slice it horizontally to create two layers. Spread the custard filling generously on the bottom layer, then place the top layer back on. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Custard Cake!

Variations to Try

While the classic Vanilla Custard Cake is delightful on its own, there are countless variations to explore. Consider adding a hint of citrus by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the batter or custard for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, you can infuse the custard with flavors like almond or coconut extract for a unique taste experience.

For a more decadent treat, layer fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries between the cake layers and custard. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color that makes the cake visually appealing. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Vanilla Custard Cake experience, consider pairing it with a complementary beverage. A warm cup of coffee or tea works wonderfully, as the rich flavors of the cake harmonize beautifully with these drinks. For a festive touch, serve it with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne at celebrations.

If you're looking for something more adventurous, try serving the cake with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm, soft cake, creating a delightful treat that is sure to please.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and assemble it just before serving.

→ How should I store the Vanilla Custard Cake?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the milk in the custard?

Yes, you can use almond milk or another dairy-free alternative, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is it possible to freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unassembled cake layers for up to 2 months. Just thaw and assemble when ready to serve.