Custard Almond Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• For the cake base:
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• For the custard filling:
  • 2 cups (500ml) milk
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the topping:
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the custard:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
   • Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not boil).
   • Slowly whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper it, then return the mixture to the saucepan.
   • Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract, remove from heat, and let it cool.
2. Preheat the oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a rectangular baking pan (9×13 inches) with parchment paper.
3. Make the cake batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and baking powder, alternating with the milk, until the batter is smooth.
4. Assemble the cake:
   • Spread the cake batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
   • Transfer the cooled custard to a piping bag or use a spoon, and pipe or spread lines of custard on top of the batter.
   • Sprinkle sliced almonds generously over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake (not the custard) comes out clean.
6. Cool and serve:
   • Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Add fruit: Layer slices of pear, apple, or berries between the custard lines for extra flavor.
• Flavor the custard: Add a touch of almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist.
• Serve warm or chilled: This cake tastes great slightly warm or chilled from the fridge.

This Custard Almond Cake is soft, creamy, and perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!