Magic Custard Cake (Vanilla Custard Cake)

Yield

8–10 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480 ml) lukewarm milk
  • Pinch of salt

Optional

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Lemon zest for extra flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) round baking dish.

Step 2: Separate Eggs

  1. Separate egg yolks and egg whites.
  2. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  3. Set aside.

Step 3: Make Batter

  1. Beat egg yolks and sugar until pale.
  2. Add melted butter and vanilla.
  3. Mix in flour and salt.
  4. Gradually pour in milk while mixing.

Step 4: Fold

  1. Gently fold whipped egg whites into the batter.
  2. Batter will look thin and lumpy—this is normal.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Pour into prepared dish.
  2. Bake 50–60 minutes until golden brown on top.
  3. Center should still jiggle slightly.

Step 6: Cool

  1. Cool completely.
  2. Refrigerate 2–3 hours before slicing.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (1/10 of recipe)

Nutrient Amount
Calories ~185
Protein 5 g
Carbohydrates 18 g
Sugars 15 g
Fat 10 g
Saturated Fat 6 g
Cholesterol 90 mg
Sodium 70 mg
Calcium 90 mg

Values are estimates and vary by ingredients used.


Common Questions & Answers

Q1: Why is my custard cake watery?

Answer: It may be underbaked or not chilled long enough. Refrigerate at least 2 hours after cooling.

Q2: Why did it sink in the middle?

Answer: Slight sinking is normal because the custard layer settles as it cools.

Q3: Can I use low-fat milk?

Answer: Yes, but whole milk gives a richer, creamier texture.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?

Answer: Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Q5: How long does it last?

Answer: 3–4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Q6: Can I freeze it?

Answer: Yes, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Q7: Why are there layers?

Answer: During baking, the batter naturally separates into:

  • A light cake-like top
  • A creamy custard center
  • A denser bottom layer

Q8: Can I add flavors?

Answer: Yes:

  • Chocolate (2 tbsp cocoa powder)
  • Lemon zest
  • Coconut extract
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg

Allergen Information

Contains:

  • Eggs
  • Milk (dairy)
  • Wheat (gluten)
  • Butter

May contain traces of nuts if ingredients are processed in facilities handling nuts.


Tips for Best Results

✓ Use room-temperature eggs.
✓ Do not overmix the egg whites.
✓ Use lukewarm milk.
✓ Chill before slicing for clean, smooth pieces.
✓ Bake until the top is deeply golden but the center still slightly wobbles.

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