German Bee Sting Cake: A Deliciously Sweet Delight

German Bee Sting Cake is a delightful dessert that transports you straight to a cozy café in Germany. This classic recipe features a fluffy yeast cake topped with a crunchy honey-almond layer and filled with silky vanilla custard. It’s a treat that not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eyes, making it perfect for special occasions or a simple indulgent afternoon snack. Let me take you through the enchanting world of this traditional German pastry with honey and cream.

Why You’ll Love This German Bee Sting Cake

This German bee sting cake recipe has so much to offer! Here are just a few reasons to love it:

  • Perfect balance of flavors: The sweet, nutty topping complements the creamy filling beautifully.
  • Simple ingredients: You’ll find most bee sting cake ingredients in your pantry.
  • Impressive presentation: It slices beautifully, making it a showstopper for gatherings.
  • Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this traditional German bee sting cake.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert or with coffee as a delightful treat.
  • Rich history: This cake has roots in German culture, making it a meaningful choice.

With its authentic German bee sting cake charm, this recipe honors the culinary tradition and brings joy to any table.

Ingredients for German Bee Sting Cake

Gather these items:

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream (whipped)

How to Make German Bee Sting Cake Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Stir yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar; rest 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Step 2: Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla; knead until smooth.
  3. Step 3: Cover and let dough rise 60 minutes until doubled.
  4. Step 4: Simmer butter, sugar, honey, and cream. Stir in almonds and a pinch of salt until glossy.
  5. Step 5: Press dough into greased 9×13 pan. Spread almond topping evenly.
  6. Step 6: Rest 30 minutes while oven heats to 350°F.
  7. Step 7: Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized. Cool completely.
  8. Step 8: Heat milk until steaming. Whisk sugar + cornstarch + yolks; temper with hot milk, then cook until thick. Stir in butter + vanilla; cool fully.
  9. Step 9: Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold into chilled custard.
  10. Step 10: Carefully split cooled cake horizontally with a serrated knife.
  11. Step 11: Spread custard cream over bottom layer; replace top almond layer.
  12. Step 12: Refrigerate 2 hours before slicing and serving.

German Bee Sting Cake: A Deliciously Sweet Delight - German Bee Sting Cake - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect German Bee Sting Cake

Keep these in mind:

  • Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising.
  • Don’t skip the chilling step; it makes slicing easier.
  • Use high-quality honey for a richer flavor.
  • Consider using slivered almonds for a different texture.

Best Ways to Serve German Bee Sting Cake

This cake is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an authentic experience. For a festive touch, consider adding fresh fruit on the side or drizzling extra honey on top. This traditional German bee sting cake is sure to impress your guests!

How to Store and Reheat German Bee Sting Cake

To store your cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you might consider freezing individual slices. Just remember to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions About German Bee Sting Cake

What’s the secret to perfect German Bee Sting Cake?

The secret lies in allowing the dough to rise properly and ensuring the almond topping is caramelized just right. This gives the cake its delightful crunch and texture.

Can I make German Bee Sting Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and allow it to chill before serving, enhancing its flavors.

How do I avoid common mistakes with German Bee Sting Cake?

To avoid mistakes, always measure your ingredients accurately and ensure your yeast is active. Follow the rising times closely for the best results.

Variations of German Bee Sting Cake You Can Try

There are many ways to enjoy this classic dessert:

  • Try adding a fruit filling, such as raspberry or cherry, for a fresh twist.
  • Experiment with different nuts like pistachios for the topping.
  • For a chocolate lover’s delight, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the almond topping.
  • Use gluten-free flour to make this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Each variation brings its unique charm while honoring the essence of this beloved German dessert.

German Bee Sting Cake: A Deliciously Sweet Delight - German Bee Sting Cake - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Raspberry Amaretti Almond Cookies or Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting. You might also enjoy Creamy Stuffed Banana Pepper Soup for a savory option. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert, don’t miss White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake or Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies.

For more information on the history of German desserts, you can visit The Spruce Eats.

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German Bee Sting Cake

German Bee Sting Cake: A Deliciously Sweet Delight


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  • Author: Mina
  • Total Time: 275 min
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Classic German Bee Sting Cake (Bienenstich) with a fluffy yeast cake, crunchy honey-almond topping, and silky vanilla custard filling.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups sliced almonds
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy cream (whipped)

Instructions

  1. Stir yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar; rest 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla; knead until smooth.
  3. Cover and let dough rise 60 minutes until doubled.
  4. Simmer butter, sugar, honey, and cream. Stir in almonds and a pinch of salt until glossy.
  5. Press dough into greased 9×13 pan. Spread almond topping evenly.
  6. Rest 30 minutes while oven heats to 350°F.
  7. Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized. Cool completely.
  8. Heat milk until steaming. Whisk sugar + cornstarch + yolks; temper with hot milk, then cook until thick. Stir in butter + vanilla; cool fully.
  9. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold into chilled custard.
  10. Carefully split cooled cake horizontally with a serrated knife.
  11. Spread custard cream over bottom layer; replace top almond layer.
  12. Refrigerate 2 hours before slicing and serving.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 120 min
    • Cook Time: 35 min
    • Category: Dessert
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: German

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 slice
    • Calories: 430
    • Sugar: 24 g
    • Sodium: 150 mg
    • Fat: 22 g
    • Saturated Fat: 10 g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
    • Trans Fat: 0 g
    • Carbohydrates: 52 g
    • Fiber: 1 g
    • Protein: 8 g
    • Cholesterol: 120 mg

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