If you love soft, creamy desserts that melt in your mouth, this Creamy Vanilla Custard Cake is going to be your new favorite. This classic baked dessert combines the richness of custard with the lightness of sponge cake, resulting in perfectly layered squares dusted with powdered sugar. It’s the kind of recipe that looks impressive, tastes luxurious, and yet is surprisingly simple to make at home.
This dessert is popular across Europe and often goes by names like custard slice, vanilla pudding cake, or magic custard cake, depending on the technique used. What makes it special is the texture: a tender base, a thick creamy center, and a lightly golden top. It’s ideal for family gatherings, holidays, afternoon coffee, or as an easy make-ahead dessert.
Why This Custard Cake Recipe Works
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Uses simple pantry ingredients
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No complicated techniques or special equipment
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Perfect balance between cake and cream
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Great for beginners and experienced bakers
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Excellent shelf life for meal prep and entertaining
This is also one of those high-engagement dessert recipes that performs well on social media and food blogs because it’s nostalgic, visually appealing, and universally loved.
Ingredients for Vanilla Custard Cake Squares
For the Cake Batter:
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4 large eggs (room temperature)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
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1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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¾ cup all-purpose flour
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¼ teaspoon salt
For Topping:
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a rectangular baking pan (9×13 inches) with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment.
Step 2: Separate the Eggs
Separate the egg yolks from the egg whites. Place the whites in a clean bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Custard Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with granulated sugar until pale and creamy. Slowly add the melted butter while whisking continuously. Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until smooth.
Sift in the flour and salt. Whisk gently until the batter is lump-free. The mixture will be thin—this is exactly what you want.
Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is essential for creating the cake’s airy top layer.
Step 5: Fold and Combine
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the custard batter in three additions. Do not overmix; the batter should look slightly lumpy and airy.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center has a gentle jiggle.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set the custard layer.
Step 8: Serve
Lift the cake out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Texture and Flavor Description
This dessert delivers three distinct layers:
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A soft, slightly dense base
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A rich, creamy vanilla custard center
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A light sponge-like top
The flavor is mildly sweet, buttery, and deeply comforting—perfect for anyone who prefers desserts that aren’t overly sugary.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
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Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
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Best served chilled
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Do not freeze (custard texture may break)
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Dust with powdered sugar just before serving
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
What is the best homemade custard cake recipe?
The best homemade custard cake recipe uses whole milk, real eggs, and vanilla extract to create a creamy texture with natural flavor. Baking at a lower temperature helps achieve clean layers.
Can I make custard cake without cornstarch?
Yes, this recipe uses eggs and flour instead of cornstarch, making it more traditional and giving it a smoother, creamier mouthfeel.
Is custard cake the same as magic cake?
Magic cake and custard cake are similar, but magic cake forms layers naturally during baking, while custard cake focuses more on a pronounced creamy center.
How do you know when custard cake is done baking?
The top should be lightly golden, and the center should jiggle slightly when shaken. Overbaking will result in a firmer custard.
What desserts are best for family gatherings?
Creamy custard desserts, vanilla cakes, and easy homemade dessert recipes are ideal for family events because they appeal to all ages.
Can I add flavors to custard cake?
Absolutely. Popular variations include lemon zest, coconut milk, almond extract, or a light cinnamon dusting.
Why is custard cake popular for food blogs?
Custard cake recipes perform well due to high search volume for easy dessert recipes, homemade cake, and classic comfort desserts, which are high-CPM keywords in food niches.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Vanilla Custard Cake Squares recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or creating content for your food blog, this dessert delivers on taste, texture, and visual appeal. It’s timeless, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser.
