Custard Cake Recipe

The Custard Cake is a beloved Filipino dessert that effortlessly combines the silky smoothness of homemade custard with the light, airy fluffiness of a golden sponge cake. Every bite is a celebration of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth layers and subtle vanilla sweetness—a treat that’s just as perfect for cozy family gatherings as it is for impressing at potlucks or parties. Making Custard Cake from scratch is a truly rewarding experience, and once you taste how the two layers come together in perfect harmony, you’ll understand why this dessert holds a special spot in so many hearts.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity: each ingredient pulls its weight to create an unforgettable texture and flavor. Don’t let the short list fool you—choosing the right basics is the secret to that signature Custard Cake magic!

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing just the right amount of structure without being too dense.
• Baking powder: Adds the essential lift, making the sponge cake fabulously light and fluffy.
• Salt: A small pinch, but it magnifies all the other flavors in the cake and custard.
• Eggs (separated): Whites give volume and airiness, while yolks enrich both the cake and the custard.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and the custard layers, giving a clean, pure sweetness.
• Whole milk (lukewarm): Moistens the cake for a tender crumb; it’s also the creamy base for the custard layer.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and a lovely, subtle flavor that pairs so well with vanilla.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses both cake and custard with those warm, classic notes everyone loves.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the custard to a luscious, spoonable consistency that stays put between the layers.
• Powdered sugar (optional): For that elegant, bakery-style finishing touch on top of your Custard Cake.

How to Make Custard Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take a moment to thoroughly grease and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial for ensuring your Custard Cake lifts cleanly out of the pan—no sticking, no crumbling, just perfectly smooth layers.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl and whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking aerates the flour and evenly distributes the leavening and salt, so your cake rises beautifully and every bite tastes just right.

Step 3: Whisk the Yolks and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This not only adds air for lightness but also helps dissolve the sugar for a delicate cake crumb in your Custard Cake.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Blend in the vanilla extract, lukewarm milk, and melted butter, stirring just until everything is smooth and combined. The warmth of the milk helps the batter come together seamlessly and keeps the cake extra tender.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Carefully fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture in batches. The trick is to mix gently to preserve as much air as possible, which will give your Custard Cake its signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 6: Whip and Fold Egg Whites

With a clean bowl and beaters, whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped whites into the batter in three additions—this keeps your cake incredibly light while still maintaining structural integrity so it holds up to the custard layer.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top as evenly as possible. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake will smell absolutely heavenly at this stage!

Step 8: Make the Custard Layer

While the cake bakes, turn your attention to the custard. In a saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth, then gradually blend in the milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Off heat, stir in the vanilla extract for one last pop of flavor.

Step 9: Assemble the Custard Cake

Once the cake is cool enough to handle, slice it horizontally to create two even layers. Spread the slightly cooled custard generously over the bottom half, then carefully place the top layer back on. A gentle touch here keeps your Custard Cake beautiful and keeps the custard from spilling over the sides!

Step 10: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least two hours so the custard completely sets. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of elegance—it’s worth the wait for that perfectly sliceable, creamy Custard Cake!

How to Serve Custard Cake

Garnishes

For a classic finish, dust your Custard Cake with a light snowfall of powdered sugar right before serving. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle a few delicate slivers of toasted almonds, add a handful of berries, or a thin drizzle of chocolate—each adds color, texture, and just the right amount of flair.

Side Dishes

This cake is wonderfully rich, so it pairs best with something cool and bright. Try serving with fresh fruit salad, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a lively citrus sorbet. The contrast balances the creamy richness of your Custard Cake and makes each bite pop.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, slice the Custard Cake into small squares or elegant bars and arrange them on a pretty platter. Or, layer slices into dessert cups, topped with extra fruit and a dollop of whipped cream for a trifle-style treat that’s both whimsical and decadent!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Custard Cake at its best, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay moist, and the custard will hold its creamy texture for up to three days—just be sure it’s tightly sealed to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

While the sponge cake layer freezes well, the custard layer can be a bit tricky. If you do want to freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Note that the texture of the custard may change slightly, becoming a bit softer than when fresh.

Reheating

Custard Cake is best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge. If you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before eating, but avoid reheating in the microwave as it can cause the custard to separate.

FAQs

What makes Custard Cake so special compared to regular sponge cake?

It’s all about the dreamy contrast of textures! The soft, airy cake layers soaked in vanilla flavor are paired with a silky, rich custard—every forkful gives you the best of both worlds and a delightful surprise if you’re expecting just cake.

Can I make Custard Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can! In fact, Custard Cake tastes even better after a night in the fridge, as the flavors meld and the custard fully firms up for clean, beautiful slices the next day.

Is Custard Cake suitable for special occasions or just everyday dessert?

It’s perfect for both! The elegant layers and creamy filling make it a showstopper for birthdays or holidays, but it’s also simple enough to whip up whenever you need a little comfort or want to celebrate the everyday.

How do I stop the custard from spilling out when cutting the cake?

Chilling is the secret! Allow your Custard Cake to refrigerate for at least two hours before slicing. Use a sharp serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfectly smooth, neat slices every time.

Can I add a twist to the classic Custard Cake?

Absolutely! Layer sliced mango, bananas, or berries between the custard and cake, add a splash of rum or espresso to the custard, or sprinkle cinnamon on top for a seasonal spin. You can truly make this recipe your own!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a showstopping dessert that’s as comforting as it is impressive, Custard Cake should be at the top of your list. Gather these simple ingredients and treat yourself (and everyone you love) to the creamy, dreamy indulgence of a homemade Filipino favorite—you’ll be so glad you did!

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