Who said baking has to be complicated?
In a world obsessed with intricate desserts and dazzling presentations, have you ever thought about a cake that defies the laws of dessert physics, creating three distinct layers in one simple bake? Enter the Magic Custard Cake, a dessert that not only delights the eye but also tantalizes the taste buds. With a fluffy top layer, creamy custard center, and a firm base, this treat challenges what you know about cake-making. Could this be the simplest yet most impressive dessert to serve at your next gathering?
Ingredients List
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Whole Milk – The foundation of our cake, whole milk contributes to a rich flavor and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using 2% milk, but the custard might be less creamy.
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Butter – Unsalted butter adds depth and richness. It’s best to use high-quality butter for a more pronounced flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free version, coconut oil can be a great substitute.
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All-Purpose Flour – This is the structural backbone of the cake. It gives the dessert its necessary form. Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
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Sugar – Granulated sugar enhances sweetness and balances the flavors. For a slightly different taste, you could use coconut sugar, though it might add a subtle caramel flavor.
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Eggs – Eggs are crucial for creating that airy texture. Use large eggs for consistent results. If you’re vegan, flaxseed eggs could work, but the texture may vary.
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Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
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Salt – A pinch of salt elevates the flavors. This is especially important in desserts, where it brings sweetness to the forefront.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
This quick preparation and baking time makes the Magic Custard Cake a fantastic option for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 320°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure an easy release.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine whole milk, melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Gently fold them in with a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the cake’s texture.
Step 4: Divide the Mixture
At this stage, the batter will look runny. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Don’t worry; it will magically form layers during baking.
Step 5: Bake
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out slightly moist—this means your custard is perfectly set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the dish for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.
Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
- Calories: Approximately 200 calories per serving. This dessert can be a satisfying treat without being overly indulgent.
- Protein: Eggs provide around 6 grams of protein per serving, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium: The combination of milk and butter contributes to the calcium content, which is vital for bone health.
- Fiber: While it’s not high in fiber, you can increase this slightly by adding oats or substituting some of the flour with whole grain equivalents.
Overall, this cake combines sweetness and textures while providing some beneficial nutrients.
Healthier Alternatives
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Milk: Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk for a lower calorie option that also caters to lactose intolerance.
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Butter: Use unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat alternative. This will create a slightly denser texture.
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Sugar: Reducing sugar by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener can significantly lower the calorie count without compromising flavor.
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Eggs: Flax or chia eggs can serve as a plant-based substitute, offering omega-3 fatty acids without cholesterol.
Serving Suggestions
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Dusting with Powdered Sugar: A simple touch that adds aesthetic appeal.
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Berry Compote: Pair your cake with a homemade berry compote for a burst of flavor and color.
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Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic presentation.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate this dessert to new gourmet heights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overmixing: This can create a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture. Gently folding in ingredients is key.
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Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to verify accuracy.
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Not Cooling Before Slicing: Waiting for your cake to cool allows the custard to set properly. This is crucial for achieving the layered effect.
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Using Fresh Eggs: Older eggs are preferable in baking since they whip better, but make sure they are still safe to use.
Storing Tips
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Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: You can freeze slices for easy later use. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a zip-top bag. Frozen slices should be consumed within 2 months.
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Serve Refrigerated: This dessert is often better that way, as the cooler temperature intensifies the flavors.
Conclusion
The Magic Custard Cake is an easy, delightful dessert that combines simplicity with impressive presentation. With a few key techniques and upgrades, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out – don’t forget to leave a review, comment or subscribe for more delicious recipes!
FAQs
- A: Q: Can I use gluten-free flour for this cake?
- A: Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent for the best results.
- B: Q: What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
- A: You can substitute with almond extract or leave it out entirely; however, note that the flavor will differ slightly.
- C: Q: Can I make this in advance?
- A: Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead. Just ensure it is stored properly in the refrigerator.
Magic Custard Cake
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An easy yet impressive dessert that creates three distinct layers in one simple bake, combining a fluffy top, creamy center, and firm base.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 4 large Eggs
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine whole milk, melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
- Sift in the flour and salt, then gently fold until just combined.
- Pour the runny batter into the prepared dish.
- Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out slightly moist.
- Let the cake cool in the dish for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a lighter cake, substitute whole milk with 2% or a non-dairy alternative. Use high-quality unsalted butter for richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: cake, custard cake, dessert, baking, easy dessert