This Bee Sting Cake is a soft, buttery yeast cake layered with creamy vanilla filling and topped with golden caramelized almonds and honey. It’s that perfect mix of light and indulgent — a dessert that feels homemade yet elegant, with every bite offering a hint of honey sweetness and a creamy, cloudlike texture. Serve it chilled for a smooth, refreshing treat or at room temperature for a cozy afternoon coffee pairing.
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, divided), 2 cups whole milk (divided), 2 large eggs, a pinch of salt, ¼ cup honey, ⅔ cup granulated sugar, 1 ½ cups sliced almonds, 1 package (3.4 oz) vanilla pudding mix, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened), 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, butter for greasing the pan.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, 3 tablespoons of the softened butter, sugar, eggs, salt, and yeast dissolved in warm milk. Knead until smooth and elastic, then let the dough rest for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly butter a rectangular baking pan. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with ⅔ cup sugar and the honey. Stir until smooth, then add the almonds and let the mixture simmer gently for a minute. Set aside to cool slightly.
Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface and place it in the prepared pan. Spread the honey–almond topping evenly over the top and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and set in the center. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Meanwhile, prepare the pudding according to the package directions, using 2 cups of milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let it cool, then beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy. Gradually add the cooled pudding, one spoonful at a time, until smooth and fluffy.
Cut the cooled cake into squares, then carefully slice each square in half horizontally. Spread the pudding cream over the bottom layers and replace the tops. Lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving.
