Heavenly German Bee Sting Cake: A Sweet Homemade Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

The first hint of warmth in the air often brings to mind a sweet loaf of history: German Bee Sting Cake. This delightful dessert is a timeless treat that beautifully balances soft, yeast-risen cake with a rich custard and a glossy almond topping. I discovered this recipe during a cozy afternoon spent flipping through my grandmother s recipe books, each page whispering memories and flavors of our family gatherings.

This cake is a showstopper, destined to impress but surprisingly simple to make, taking you from pantry to plate with minimal fuss. With its delectable layers and nutty topping, the German Bee Sting Cake is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual brunch or a celebratory gathering. By using easy-to-find ingredients, this dessert invites you to explore your baking skills without the stress of complicated techniques. As the aroma of freshly baked cake wafts through your kitchen, you ll be transported to a charming café in Germany, leaving fast food behind for something truly special. So let s dive into making this irresistible treat that will have everyone buzzing for more!

Why is German Bee Sting Cake so special?

Delightful Layers: The combination of soft, yeast dough, luscious custard, and crunchy almond topping creates a textural experience that delights.
Rich Flavor: Enhanced by honey and vanilla, this cake offers a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to Germany.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive celebration, this cake fits right in, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.
Easy to Make: Don t let its impressive looks fool you; this recipe is uncomplicated, allowing both novice and seasoned bakers to shine.
A Family Tradition: Recreate the warmth and love of family gatherings with each slice, as this cake carries a lovely history that can be passed down.
For some extra baking inspiration, check out my favorite homemade desserts!

German Bee Sting Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

• Active dry yeast This key ingredient helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that airy texture.
• Warm milk Ensures the yeast activates properly for a delightful rise.
• Granulated sugar Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance flavors.
• Unsalted butter Use softened butter for a rich and moist cake.
• Salt Enhances all the flavors, creating a lovely depth.
• Large egg Provides structure and richness to the cake.
• All-purpose flour The base for the cake, yielding a tender crumb.

For the Almond Topping

• Unsalted butter Melted butter gives the topping a luscious texture.
• Granulated sugar Adds sweetness that complements the nutty almonds.
• Pure honey Infuses a delightful flavor that suits the German Bee Sting Cake perfectly.
• Heavy cream Ensures a creamy consistency for the topping.
• Sliced almonds Adds a satisfying crunch and a beautiful presentation.

For the Custard Filling

• Whole milk The base for a creamy and flavorful custard.
• Granulated sugar Sweetens the custard filling for a balanced taste.
• All-purpose flour Thickens the custard to achieve the perfect texture.
• Large egg yolks Adds richness and depth to the custard flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Unsalted butter Fold in softened butter at the end for a light and spreadable consistency.

How to Make German Bee Sting Cake

1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 10 minutes until frothy. This step is crucial for a lovely rise in your cake!

2. Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, softened butter, salt, and the large egg. Stir in the yeast mixture, then gradually add the all-purpose flour, kneading for 5 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. Let it Rise: Cover the dough with a clean cloth and set it in a warm place to rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This creates that airy texture we desire!

4. Prepare the Topping: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in granulated sugar, honey, and heavy cream until bubbling and golden (3 4 minutes). Then, remove from heat and mix in the sliced almonds. Let it cool.

5. Shape the Cake: Punch down the dough and press it evenly into a greased 9-inch round pan. Spread the cooled almond topping over the dough. Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for 25 30 minutes, or until golden and hollow-sounding. Cool completely on a wire rack.

6. Make the Custard Filling: Warm the whole milk in a saucepan (do not boil). In a bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add the warm milk, then return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (5 7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract. Cover with plastic wrap and chill until cool. Once chilled, beat in softened butter until light and spreadable.

7. Assemble the Cake: Slice the cooled cake horizontally in half using a serrated knife. Spread the custard on the bottom layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Place the top layer with the almond topping onto the custard, pressing gently to seal. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze German Bee Sting Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator. It can last up to 5 days, but be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: If you wish to enjoy your German Bee Sting Cake later, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw slices in the fridge overnight before enjoying. For the best texture, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

German Bee Sting Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful cake to suit your tastes!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake accessible for gluten-sensitive friends. A fantastic way to share the joy!

• Nut-Free: Replace sliced almonds with toasted coconut for a different flavor twist while keeping that desirable crunch. The tropical aroma will transport you to paradise!

• Vegan: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use a non-dairy milk and butter substitute to create a compassionate version of this delicious classic. Everyone deserves a slice!

• Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a rich, chocolatey base. Pairing chocolate with the almond topping is simply divine!

• Fruit-Infused: Layer fresh berries or ripe sliced peaches between the custard and cake layers for a refreshing fruity twist. Bursting with flavor, it s summer on a plate!

• Spiced Delight: Incorporate cinnamon or cardamom into the custard filling for a warm spice profile that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness. Your taste buds will sing!

• Loaded with Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce on top of the baked cake before chilling for an indulgent touch that takes it to the next level. A sweet surprise awaits!

• Cream Cheese Whip: Whip cream cheese into the butter for the custard filling for a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness beautifully. It elevates the cake with an unexpected twist!

What to Serve with German Bee Sting Cake?

Imagine a warm afternoon gathering where each bite of rich, custard-filled cake is perfectly balanced with delightful accompaniments that elevate the experience.

• Fresh Berries: The bright, tart flavors of raspberries or blueberries contrast beautifully with the sweet creaminess of the cake.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious touch alongside the dense cake.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or aromatic tea enhances the flavors, creating a comforting pairing that feels indulgent.
• Crème Fraîche: The subtle tang of crème fraîche complements the sweetness, offering a creamy texture that enriches each slice.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate provides a rich contrast, creating a decadent finish to the already delightful cake.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or honey-flavored ice cream adds a creamy, cool element that pairs wonderfully with the cake s warmth.
• Candied Nuts: Crunchy candied almonds can mirror the topping while adding an enticing sweetness that enhances the whole dessert experience.
• Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly or sweet sparkling wine can uplift the occasion, making every bite feel celebratory and special.
• Light Fruit Salad: A refreshing salad with melons and citrus can cleanse the palate between bites, balancing the richness of the cake nicely.
• Dessert Wine: A sweet dessert wine, like Riesling, complements the honey notes in the cake, adding depth to the tasting experience.

Tips for the Best German Bee Sting Cake

Yeast Activation: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, when dissolving the yeast. This activates it effectively for the perfect rise.

Measuring Flour: Spoon and level your flour rather than packing it into the cup. This prevents a dense cake and ensures the right texture.

Custard Thickness: Stir the custard continuously while cooking to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling. If it s too thin, cook a bit longer until thickened.

Cooling Time: Don t rush the cooling process! Let the cake cool completely before assembling; this prevents the custard from melting and ensures clean layers.

Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

Presentation Tip: For an elegant finish, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top just before serving your German Bee Sting Cake.

Make Ahead Options

German Bee Sting Cake is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and topping up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the risen dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its quality. The almond topping can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. When you re ready to serve, bake the cake and prepare the custard filling; it can be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before spreading on the cake. By prepping these elements ahead of time, you ll enjoy a delightful homemade dessert with minimal effort!

German Bee Sting Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is fresh?
Absolutely! To check if your yeast is still active, dissolve it in warm milk with a bit of sugar. If it bubbles and froths after 5-10 minutes, your yeast is good to go!

What s the best way to store leftovers?
I recommend covering the leftover German Bee Sting Cake with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. This way, it stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze German Bee Sting Cake?
Yes, indeed! Slice the cake, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw slices in the fridge overnight!

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Very! A dense cake can happen if the dough wasn t kneaded enough to develop gluten or if the yeast wasn t activated properly. Be sure to knead until smooth and elastic, and always check that your yeast is frothy before proceeding!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you re baking for someone with allergies, be cautious with the ingredients. This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. For a gluten-free version, consider using gluten-free flour blended with vital wheat gluten, and for a dairy-free option, substitute with almond or coconut milk and non-dairy butter.

How long should I chill the custard?
Great question! After preparing the custard, cover its surface with plastic wrap to avoid a skin from forming, and chill it in the fridge until cool. This usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once chilled, beat in softened butter until it s light and spreadable. Enjoy your baking!