
Capture creamy goodness in this layered dessert. This easy vanilla custard cake recipe turns one simple batter into delicious layers! You'll get a soft cake layer and creamy vanilla custard in one slice. Anyone who wants something impressive without making separate fillings or layers will enjoy this fun dessert!
For more comforting flavors, have some Nutella mug cake or s’mores cupcakes next!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You'll definitely love the texture! The cake is soft, and the custard is creamy. Also, the recipe is beginner-friendly. With just simple ingredients, you can make a batter that separates into both. After baking, check with a toothpick.
The light vanilla flavor makes it easy to serve for many occasions. Enjoy it plain or with powdered sugar, berries, or fresh fruit!
Ingredients
Listed below are all the ingredients you will need:
- unsalted butter
- milk
- eggs
- powdered sugar
- water
- flour
- vanilla extract
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Make the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then set them aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.

Then add the water and melted butter. Mix again until combined.
Next, pour in the lukewarm milk and vanilla extract. Add the flour and mix until the batter is smooth.
After that, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the thin batter. Do not overmix; it is completely fine if a few small, fluffy pieces of egg white remain visible.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is mostly set.

Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. For the best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator after it cools to achieve an even firmer, richer custard texture

Substitutions & Variations
- Ingredient Swap
Use whole milk for the richest custard texture. - Variation
Add a small amount of almond extract or honey along with the vanilla for extra flavor. - Mistake to Avoid
Don't completely mix away the whipped egg whites. Fold them gently into the batter so some fluffy pieces remain. This helps the cake form its signature layers.
Storage Tips
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing may change its creamy texture. This is because the custard layer is delicate. For the best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

FAQs
Vanilla Custard Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 eggs separated
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tablespoon water
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 cups milk lukewarm
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup flour
Instructions
Make the Batter
- First, lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking pan. Then preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Add the egg whites to a large bowl.
- Beat until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
- Next, add the egg yolks and powdered sugar to another large bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Then add the water and melted butter. Mix again until combined.
- Next, pour in the lukewarm milk and vanilla extract. Add the flour and mix until the batter is smooth.
- After that, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the thin batter. A few small fluffy pieces of egg white are fine.
Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is mostly set.
Cool and Serve
- Lastly, let the cake cool completely before slicing. Chill it for an even firmer custard texture if desired.
Watch The Recipe Video!
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Recipes for Every Moment
Craving something creamy but don't want to prepare separate custard and cake layers? This Vanilla Custard Cake recipe gives you both from one simple batter!





Lanie says
Love the recipe's...
Nice voice...
Lainey says
Hey Lanie! Thank you so much! I appreciate your kind words.
Cath says
Awesome recipe! Yumminess and goodness in one!
Lainey says
Thank you so much for swinging by my blog Cath! I appreciate it!
Marilyn says
Hi Lainey
Can I use gluten free flour for this recipe?
Mikayla says
Hi I was wondering if I can use a 9x9 baking pan ? Thanks !
Queenie says
This looks amazing and so easy to follow! Can't wait to try it.