Delicious Creamy German Bee Sting Cake (Bienenstich)

German Bee Sting Cake, known as Bienenstich, is a classic European dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. It features a light, fluffy yeast cake base topped with a caramelized honey-almond layer and filled with silky vanilla cream. The contrast of textures — soft cake, crunchy topping, and creamy center — makes this cake unforgettable.

Legend says the cake earned its name after bakers were stung by bees attracted to the honey topping, but today it’s beloved for much sweeter reasons. It’s a staple in German bakeries and a show-stopping dessert for celebrations, coffee tables, and special gatherings.

This homemade version delivers authentic flavor with simple ingredients and step-by-step ease.

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Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Authentic German bakery flavor
• Creamy vanilla filling
• Crunchy honey almond topping
• Soft, fluffy yeast cake
• Perfect for celebrations

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Ingredients

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

Almond Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup honey
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ cups sliced almonds

Cream Filling:

• 1½ cups whole milk
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped

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Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar; let foam.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add eggs, butter, and yeast mixture; knead until smooth.
4. Cover dough and let rise until doubled.
5. Press dough into a greased springform pan.
6. For topping, melt butter, honey, and sugar; stir in almonds.
7. Spread almond mixture evenly over dough.
8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden.
9. Cool completely, then slice cake horizontally.
10. Cook milk, sugar, cornstarch, and yolks until thick.
11. Stir in vanilla and cool.
12. Fold whipped cream into custard.
13. Spread cream filling on bottom layer.
14. Replace top layer and chill before serving.

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Texture & Flavor

This cake is soft and airy with a rich vanilla cream center and a crunchy, buttery almond topping. The honey adds floral sweetness that balances the cream perfectly.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with coffee
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar
• Garnish with extra almonds
• Pair with espresso or tea

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Pro Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients
• Chill before slicing for clean layers
• Don’t overbake — keep cake soft
• Slice topping gently with serrated knife

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Storage

Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 24 hours.

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