Vanilla Custard Cake is a magical dessert that feels light as air yet rich and creamy at the same time. With its delicate layers, silky custard center, and soft sponge top, this cake quite literally melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that looks simple, tastes luxurious, and leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Often described as a “magic custard cake,” this recipe transforms a very thin batter into distinct textures as it bakes—thanks to gently folded egg whites and slow, low-temperature baking. The result is a soft, tender cake with a creamy vanilla custard heart that’s absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Custard Cake
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Soft, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture
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Light vanilla flavor that isn’t overly sweet
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Simple ingredients, elegant result
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Perfect make-ahead dessert
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Delicious served chilled or at room temperature
Ingredients
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4 large eggs, separated
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150 g granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon vanilla sugar or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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125 g butter, melted and slightly cooled
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115 g all-purpose flour
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500 ml warm milk
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Pinch of salt
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
How to Make Vanilla Custard Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
Line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
Place the egg whites in a clean bowl with a pinch of salt. Whip until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Yolk Batter
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar and vanilla until pale and creamy.
Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until smooth and free of lumps.
Step 4: Add the Milk
Slowly pour in the warm milk while mixing gently. The batter will be very thin and liquid—this is exactly what you want.
Step 5: Fold in the Egg Whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in 2–3 additions.
Do not overmix. The batter should look airy, slightly lumpy, and light.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until:
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The top is lightly golden
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The center is soft and slightly jiggly
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the custard layer and achieve the best texture.
Step 8: Serve
Cut into squares and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Perfect Custard Cake
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Warm milk helps create smooth custard layers
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Do not overmix after adding egg whites
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Bake low and slow for proper separation
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Chill before slicing for clean layers
Texture & Flavor Breakdown
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Top layer: Soft, sponge-like cake
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Middle: Creamy vanilla custard
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Bottom: Dense, pudding-like base
Each bite delivers a gentle contrast of textures that feels rich yet light.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
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Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
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Make-Ahead: Even better the next day
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Freezing: Not recommended due to custard texture
Variations to Try
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Lemon Custard Cake: Add lemon zest
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Coconut Version: Replace some milk with coconut milk
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Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate before baking
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Vanilla Bean: Use real vanilla bean seeds
Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Custard Cake is soft, creamy, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and gentle vanilla flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for gatherings, holidays, or quiet moments with coffee or tea.