Bee Sting Cake, or Bienenstich, is a delightful German dessert that combines a soft, buttery yeast cake with a luscious pastry cream filling and a crunchy caramelized almond topping. The cake’s name comes from the legend that a baker was once stung by a bee while making it—likely drawn in by the irresistible honey-almond topping!
This classic dessert is perfect for special occasions or a cozy afternoon tea. The contrast between the tender cake, silky cream, and nutty crunch makes it an all-time favorite. Whether you’re new to German baking or a seasoned pro, this Bee Sting Cake is sure to impress!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp salt
For the Almond Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup honey
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 cup sliced almonds
For the Pastry Cream Filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Directions:
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Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and yeast mixture, then knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Prepare the Almond Topping: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in honey, sugar, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, then stir in the sliced almonds. Set aside to cool.
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Bake the Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Punch down the risen dough and press it evenly into the pan. Spread the almond topping over the dough. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
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Make the Pastry Cream: In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm. In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Slowly pour the warm milk into the mixture while whisking, then return it to the pan. Cook until thickened, then stir in vanilla. Cool completely, then fold in whipped cream.
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Assemble the Cake: Slice the cooled cake in half horizontally. Spread the pastry cream evenly on the bottom half, then place the top half back on. Chill before serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The History of Bee Sting Cake (Bienenstich)
Bee Sting Cake, or Bienenstich, is a beloved German dessert with a fascinating history. The name “Bienenstich” translates to “bee sting,” which is believed to originate from a legendary tale. According to folklore, bakers from the German town of Andernach defended their village from an attack in the 15th century by throwing beehives at their enemies. In celebration of their victory, they created a sweet honey-topped cake, which became known as Bee Sting Cake.
Over time, this cake became a staple in German households and bakeries. It combines a tender, yeasted cake base with a caramelized almond topping and a creamy filling, making it a unique and irresistible treat. Whether enjoyed as a casual afternoon snack or served at special gatherings, Bee Sting Cake remains a symbol of German baking excellence.
What Makes Bee Sting Cake Special?
Unlike traditional sponge or butter cakes, Bee Sting Cake is made with a yeast-based dough. This gives it a slightly chewy, yet soft texture that holds up well against the luscious pastry cream filling. The topping is another standout feature—sliced almonds are coated in a caramelized honey-butter glaze, creating a crispy, golden crust.
The contrast of textures makes every bite a delightful experience. The bottom layer is light and airy, the middle is smooth and creamy, and the top is crunchy and sweet. These elements come together to form a dessert that is both rich and well-balanced, making it a favorite for many.
Why You Should Try Making Bee Sting Cake at Home
Many people assume that traditional European cakes are difficult to make, but Bee Sting Cake is surprisingly approachable. While it does require several steps, each one is simple and rewarding. Making the yeast dough from scratch allows you to enjoy the freshness and authenticity of homemade baking. Plus, the satisfaction of slicing into a perfectly baked Bee Sting Cake, with its caramelized almond top and creamy center, is worth the effort.
Another reason to make Bee Sting Cake at home is its versatility. You can customize the filling by adding flavors such as vanilla, almond, or even coffee. Some variations also include whipped cream for an extra light texture.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even though Bee Sting Cake is a straightforward recipe, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you perfect it:
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Not letting the dough rise properly: Since this cake is made with yeast, it’s important to give the dough enough time to rise. If rushed, the texture may turn out dense rather than soft and fluffy.
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Overcooking the almond topping: The caramelized honey-almond layer can burn quickly, so it’s essential to keep an eye on it. If it turns too dark, it may become overly bitter.
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Filling the cake while it’s still warm: The pastry cream must be completely cooled before assembling the cake. If the cake is too warm, the cream may melt and lose its texture.
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Cutting the cake too soon: Allowing the cake to chill before slicing ensures that the layers hold together, making it easier to serve.
Pairing Bee Sting Cake with Drinks
Bee Sting Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. Its sweet and nutty flavor complements both hot and cold drinks. Here are some great pairing ideas:
- Coffee: A strong espresso or cappuccino balances the cake’s sweetness and enhances its nutty notes.
- Tea: Black tea, such as Earl Grey, pairs well with the honey flavor, while herbal teas like chamomile or rooibos add a gentle contrast.
- Milk: A glass of cold milk is a simple yet perfect match for the creamy filling and caramelized top.
- Dessert Wines: A sweet Riesling or a late-harvest wine complements the honey and almond flavors, making it a great choice for a formal dessert pairing.
Storing and Serving Bee Sting Cake
If you have leftovers, Bee Sting Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake is best enjoyed slightly chilled, but you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften the texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake without the filling. Simply wrap the baked cake layers in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the layers, prepare the filling, and assemble the cake fresh.
Variations of Bee Sting Cake
While the traditional recipe is the most well-known, there are several ways to put a creative twist on Bee Sting Cake:
- Chocolate Bee Sting Cake: Adding cocoa powder to the dough or using a chocolate pastry cream filling creates a delicious variation for chocolate lovers.
- Fruit-Infused Bee Sting Cake: Some recipes incorporate fruit preserves, such as raspberry or apricot jam, into the filling for a refreshing contrast.
- Mini Bee Sting Cakes: Instead of making one large cake, you can bake smaller, individual-sized cakes, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.
- Vegan Bee Sting Cake: Using plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and a coconut-based pastry cream allows vegans to enjoy this classic treat.
Conclusion
Bee Sting Cake is a German classic that stands out for its unique texture and rich flavors. With its soft yeast cake, creamy filling, and crunchy caramelized almond topping, it is a dessert that impresses both visually and in taste. Though it may seem complex at first, following the steps carefully ensures a rewarding baking experience.
This cake is perfect for sharing with family and friends, whether for a casual afternoon treat or a festive occasion. Once you master the basic recipe, you can experiment with different fillings and flavors to create your own version. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Bee Sting Cake is a timeless dessert that continues to bring joy to many.
Would you try making this cake at home? Let us know how it turns out!