Ingredients
Eggs
- 4 eggs (separated)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
- 2 cups 2% milk (warmed)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Line an 8-inch x 8-inch pan with parchment paper or coat liberally with cooking spray. Set aside to ensure the pan is ready for the batter.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for creating the airy custard layer in the cake. Set aside.
- Combine Egg Yolks and Other Ingredients: In another large bowl, beat the egg yolks, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt until well combined and the mixture turns pale yellow, indicating it is properly aerated and mixed.
- Add Milk, Vanilla, and Flour: Slowly drizzle the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture while mixing on low speed to avoid curdling. Then add the vanilla extract and flour, mixing gently until fully combined.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the egg yolk mixture a little at a time. Take care not to overmix as this will deflate the air bubbles and affect the cake's texture.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 40-50 minutes or until set. The center should remain slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven to ensure the custard sets perfectly during cooling.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely before cutting into 9 slices. Sprinkle the top liberally with powdered sugar for an elegant finish before serving.
Notes
- The key to the cake's magic is folding the egg whites gently into the batter to maintain the airy texture.
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot when adding to prevent curdling the eggs.
- Allow the cake to cool fully to let the custard layers set properly.
- Use an 8x8 inch pan for even baking and perfect thickness.
- Storing leftovers covered in the refrigerator can help maintain the custard's texture for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American