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A traditional Bee Sting Cake with honey-almond topping.

Traditional German Bee Sting Cake

Bee Sting Cake, or Bienenstich, is a beloved German dessert that combines a light, yeasted cake base, a rich vanilla custard filling, and a crispy, honey-caramelized almond topping. Its origins date back to the 15th century, with a fascinating legend of bakers defending their village with beehives—hence the name! This cake is delicately sweet, slightly crunchy, and creamy, making it the perfect treat for afternoon coffee, celebrations, or even breakfast indulgence.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: German
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Yeasted Cake Base:
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup warm milk 100°F or 38°C
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Honey-Almond Topping:
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • ¾ cup sliced almonds
  • For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup heavy cream whipped, optional for a lighter texture

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (for dough and custard preparation)
  • Whisk (for mixing custard and dough ingredients)
  • Saucepan (for making the honey-almond topping and custard)
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk (for whipping cream, optional)
  • Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring custard and dough)
  • 9-inch round cake pan (for baking the cake)
  • Knife or cake slicer (for cutting the cake horizontally)
  • Cooling rack (for cooling the cake before assembling)
  • Plastic wrap or cake cover (for refrigerating the cake)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Yeasted Dough
  2. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
  4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth. If sticky, add a little flour.
  5. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  6. Step 2: Make the Honey-Almond Topping
  7. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in sugar, honey, and heavy cream, and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  8. Add sliced almonds, stir, and let cool while you prepare the cake.
  9. Step 3: Bake the Cake
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  11. Punch down the risen dough and place it into the prepared cake pan. Spread evenly.
  12. Carefully spoon the honey-almond mixture over the dough.
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and caramelized. Allow to cool completely.
  14. Step 4: Prepare the Custard Filling
  15. In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm.
  16. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  17. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  18. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
  19. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. For a lighter texture, fold in whipped cream.
  20. Step 5: Assemble the Cake
  21. Once the cake is cool, carefully slice it horizontally into two layers.
  22. Spread the custard filling evenly over the bottom layer.
  23. Place the top layer back on and refrigerate for 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Notes

Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Variations: Try adding a splash of rum or kirsch to the custard for a Bavarian twist.
Mini Version: Make individual cupcakes instead of one large cake.
Enjoy this authentic German Bee Sting Cake—a delightful balance of soft, creamy, and crunchy textures! 🍯✨