Ingredients

For the Cake

• 3 eggs
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 10 g vanilla sugar
• 70 g sugar
• 200 ml milk
• 50 ml vegetable oil
• 200 g flour
• 12 g baking powder
• 100 g walnuts, finely chopped

For the Creamy Custard Filling

• 2 egg yolks
• 5 g vanilla sugar
• 30 g sugar
• 800 ml milk
• 70 g corn starch
• 20 g butter

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 slices

Steps to Make Vanilla Walnut Cake with Creamy Custard Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round or rectangular baking pan.
2. Beat the eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This takes about 5 minutes with a hand or stand mixer.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Gradually mix in the milk and vegetable oil.
4. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Incorporate the walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts for a nutty texture.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling

1. Heat the milk: In a medium saucepan, heat 700 ml of the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not boil.
2. Mix the egg yolks and starch: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla sugar, corn starch, and the remaining 100 ml of milk until smooth.
3. Combine and cook: Gradually pour the egg yolk mixture into the hot milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth custard. This takes about 5–7 minutes.
4. Add the butter: Remove the custard from heat and stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Cool the custard: Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and let it cool completely at room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Slice the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, slice it horizontally into two equal layers.
2. Spread the custard: Place the bottom layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of custard over it.
3. Add the top layer: Place the top layer of the cake over the custard and spread the remaining custard evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set and the flavors to meld.
2. Garnish with chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Vanilla Walnut Cake with Creamy Custard Filling is a dessert that transcends time and trends for several reasons:

1. Classic Flavor Profile: The combination of vanilla, walnuts, and custard creates a universally appealing flavor that feels both nostalgic and elegant.
2. Texture Harmony: The fluffy cake, crunchy walnuts, and smooth custard provide a delightful contrast in every bite.
3. Versatility: This cake can be dressed up for celebrations or kept simple for a casual tea-time treat.
4. Approachable Yet Elegant: Despite its sophisticated appearance, the recipe is easy to follow and accessible for home bakers.
5. Comforting and Familiar: Custard-based desserts are loved across cultures, making this cake a familiar yet special indulgence.

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 150 mg

FAQs

Can I Use a Different Nut Instead of Walnuts?

Yes, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts make great substitutes for walnuts.

Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Corn Starch for the Custard?

While all-purpose flour can be used, corn starch gives the custard a smoother, silkier texture.

How Do I Store the Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance, and the custard can also be prepared ahead. Assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

Can I Use Store-Bought Custard?

While homemade custard provides the best flavor, store-bought custard can be used in a pinch.

Tips for Making the Best Vanilla Walnut Cake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and custard.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
3. Custard Consistency: Cook the custard over medium heat, stirring constantly, to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture.
4. Cool Completely: Allow the cake and custard to cool fully before assembling to prevent sliding layers.
5. Chill for Stability: Refrigerating the assembled cake helps the custard set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator:

Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent the custard from drying out.

Freezer:

While freezing the custard-filled cake isn’t recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze the baked cake layers (without custard) for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before assembling.

Conclusion

The Vanilla Walnut Cake with Creamy Custard Filling is more than just a dessert—it’s a culinary experience that combines the best of baking traditions with a touch of elegance. From the nutty richness of the walnuts to the velvety custard, every bite offers a moment of indulgence.

This recipe’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as an everyday treat, it brings a sense of comfort and joy to any table. It’s a reminder that the best desserts often come from combining humble ingredients with a little creativity and care.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a cake that’s sure to become a cherished part of your baking repertoire. The Vanilla Walnut Cake with Creamy Custard Filling is not just a recipe—it’s a tradition waiting to be shared and enjoyed. Bon appétit!