There’s something truly magical about the holiday season in Austria. The air fills with the sweet aromas of freshly baked treats, and one beloved recipe that captures the essence of Austrian Christmas baking is the Bienenstich Honey Cream Cake. This delightful dessert is a true showstopper, featuring a golden, buttery dough filled with a luscious honey cream layer. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a cozy afternoon indulgence, this Bienenstich Honey Cream Cake is sure to impress with its irresistible taste and charming presentation.
Bienenstich Honey Cream Cake
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet dry yeast
– 1/2 cup milk, lukewarm
– 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Honey Cream Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
For the Almond Topping:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
5. Roll out the dough to fit the cake pan and transfer it to the pan. Prick the dough with a fork and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
6. Make the Honey Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Slowly stream in the honey, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Mix until well combined.
7. Spread the honey cream filling over the cooled baked dough evenly.
8. Prepare the Almond Topping: In a saucepan, melt the butter, sugar, and honey over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
9. Add the sliced almonds to the butter mixture, stirring until the almonds are well coated.
10. Spread the almond mixture over the honey cream filling and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the almonds are golden and caramelized.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing into wedges and serving.
Enjoy a slice of this exquisite Bienenstich Honey Cream Cake with a cup of warm tea or coffee. The delicate balance of tender dough, luscious honey cream, and crunchy almond topping will surely transport your taste buds to the enchanting world of Austrian Christmas delights. Embrace the holiday spirit and savor each delightful bite of this irresistible treat that is perfect for sharing with loved ones during the most wonderful time of the year.
