Bienenstich - Bee Sting Cake

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 2 pieces large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of warm milk (about 110°F) with the active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, remaining milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.

3. 3

   Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. 4

   While the dough is rising, prepare the almond topping. In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, honey, and water. Bring to a simmer, then add the sliced almonds. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the almonds are coated and slightly toasted. Remove from heat.

5. 5

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out to fit a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Spread the almond mixture evenly over the top of the dough.

6. 6

   Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. 7

   While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Once the cake is completely cool, slice it in half horizontally.

8. 8

   Spread the whipped cream filling between the two layers of the cake. Place the top half back on and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

9. 9

   Slice and serve your Bienenstich with coffee or tea. Enjoy!