Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk (for the custard)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the custard)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for the custard)
- 4 egg yolks
For a twist, try substituting almond extract for vanilla in the custard for a nutty depth, or add a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter for a warm, spicy note.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cakes are baking, prepare the custard. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and sugar, heating over medium until the sugar dissolves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth. Slowly add a ladle of the warm milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the yolk mixture to the saucepan, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Let the cakes cool completely before assembling. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of custard on top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread more custard over the entire cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the custard to set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International