Perfect Bee Sting Cake Recipe from Germany

If you’re a fan of rich, nutty desserts with a touch of caramelized sweetness, Germany’s Bee Sting Cake (Bienenstich) is a must-try. This classic German treat combines a soft, fluffy yeast cake base with a creamy filling and a honey-almond topping that’s irresistibly crunchy. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake never fails to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast

• ¼ cup warm milk

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup honey

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup sliced almonds

For the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup milk

• ½ cup sugar

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, butter, and the yeast mixture.

3. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Topping

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter, honey, and sugar together over medium heat.

2. Stir in sliced almonds and let the mixture bubble gently for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and place it in a greased baking pan.

3. Spread the almond topping evenly over the dough.

4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add milk and cook over medium heat until thickened.

2. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract, and let it cool slightly.

3. Whip the heavy cream and fold it into the cooled mixture to create a creamy filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake is completely cool, carefully slice it horizontally in half.

2. Spread the creamy filling evenly over the bottom layer and place the almond-topped cake layer on top.

3. Chill for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

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Tips for the Perfect Bee Sting Cake

• Yeast activation: Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

• Almond topping: Toasting the almonds slightly beforehand enhances their nutty flavor.

• Cream filling: For a lighter texture, fold whipped cream gently to maintain its airiness.

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With its delicate cake, creamy filling, and caramelized almond topping, this Bee Sting Cake is a true German classic that brings a little bit of European bakery magic to your kitchen. Perfect for celebrations, tea time, or simply indulging your sweet tooth!