Cake (Layered Custard Spice Cake)

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The Cake is a beautifully layered dessert that combines warm aromatic spices, a moist crumb texture, and a rich creamy custard filling. Often made with breadcrumbs for its signature texture and finished with a stunning cinnamon lattice design, this cake is perfect for special occasions or an elegant coffee break treat.

🛒 INGREDIENTS

For the Cake Layers:

  • 2 cups fine breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 large eggs (separated)
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Custard Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp butter

For Decoration:

  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon (for lattice pattern)
  • Powdered sugar (optional)

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
  3. In another bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar until light and creamy.
  4. Add milk, oil (or butter), and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  5. Gradually fold in dry ingredients.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  7. Gently fold egg whites into the batter to keep it airy.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Divide batter evenly between pans.
  2. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  3. Let cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

  1. In a saucepan, heat milk until warm (not boiling).
  2. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  3. Slowly pour warm milk into egg mixture while whisking.
  4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook on medium heat until thickened.
  5. Stir in butter and vanilla.
  6. Let custard cool completely (cover surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin).

Step 4: Assemble

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
  2. Spread a thick layer of custard evenly.
  3. Top with the second cake layer.

Step 5: Decorate

  1. Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar.
  2. Use a stencil or knife edge to create a classic cinnamon lattice pattern on top.

💡 TIPS FOR PERFECT INDIAN CAKE

  • Use fine breadcrumbs for a smoother texture.
  • Make sure custard is fully cooled before spreading to avoid sliding layers.
  • Refrigerate for 1–2 hours before serving for cleaner slices.
  • Add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra richness.
  • For a stronger spice flavor, slightly increase cinnamon and cardamom.

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