Bienenstich: A Sweet Slice of German Tradition with Almonds and Honey

Ingredients You’ll Need for Bienenstich

For the Cake:

• 500 grams (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 100 grams (½ cup) sugar
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 250 ml (1 cup) whole milk, warm
• 100 grams (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Almond-Honey Topping:

• 150 grams (1 ½ cups) sliced almonds
• 200 grams (1 cup) sugar
• 60 grams (¼ cup) unsalted butter
• 150 ml (⅔ cup) honey
• 1 tbsp whole milk

For the Filling:

• 500 ml (2 cups) heavy whipping cream
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 250 grams (1 cup) mascarpone cheese (or soft cream cheese)

The Dough: The Foundation of Your Cake

Step 1: Activating the Yeast

To start making the dough, first, you’ll need to activate your yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and gently stir it. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes bubbly and foamy. This is a key step to ensure your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Preparing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center, and pour in the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Kneading the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead. Once you have a soft, elastic dough, place it back into the bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

The Almond-Honey Topping: A Caramelized Dream

Step 4: Making the Almond Topping

While your dough is rising, prepare the honey-almond topping. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the sugar, honey, and milk, stirring occasionally. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and cook it for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Adding the Almonds

Once the mixture has thickened, add the sliced almonds to the pan. Stir everything together until the almonds are fully coated in the honey syrup. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Assembling the Cake

Step 6: Shaping the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Grease a round cake pan (about 9 inches in diameter) and line the bottom with parchment paper. Roll the dough out into a circle that fits the pan, and then place it inside, pressing it into the edges gently.

Step 7: Adding the Almond-Honey Topping

Spread the almond-honey mixture evenly over the top of the dough. Ensure the almonds are spread out in a thin, even layer. This topping will become golden and crisp while baking, creating the signature texture and flavor of Bienenstich.

Step 8: Baking the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is cooked through. If you’re unsure whether the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Preparing the Creamy Filling

Step 9: Making the Filling

To make the creamy filling, whip the heavy cream with the sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone, creating a light and fluffy filling.

Assembling the Final Cake

Step 10: Cutting and Filling

Once the cake has cooled, carefully cut it in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Spread the mascarpone cream filling evenly over the bottom half of the cake.

Step 11: Assembling the Layers

Place the top half of the cake (the one with the almond-honey topping) gently onto the filling. Press down slightly to ensure the layers stick together. Slice and serve!

A Sweet Slice of Heaven

Now that you’ve crafted your own Bienenstich, it’s time to savor this beautiful German cake. Each bite is a delightful combination of soft, fluffy cake, sweet honey, and crunchy almonds, with a creamy, smooth filling to top it off. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or as a dessert for a special occasion, this German classic is sure to impress everyone at the table.

With its unique combination of flavors and textures, Bienenstich offers a perfect dessert for any gathering. The rich filling paired with the crunchy honey-almond topping makes it an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Making it at home may take some time, but the results are well worth it. Serve it to friends and family, and you’ll be the star of any occasion. With just the right balance of sweetness and texture, this cake brings a slice of German tradition to your table.

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