This enchanting dessert starts as a single batter but transforms in the oven into three distinct layers: a creamy flan base, a smooth custard middle, and a light, crispy sponge on top. It's pure baking magic, made with just eggs, milk, flour, sugar, and a touch of vanilla. No fancy techniques required—the oven does the work. As a seasoned baker, I've perfected this foolproof recipe that's always a crowd-pleaser.
Follow this straightforward recipe for a stunning vanilla magic cake that serves 8.
General Information
Preparation time: 20 min
Cooking time: 50 min
Ingredients for 8 people
Ingredients
Preparation
1. Heat the milk with the split vanilla pod. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Whisk the yolks with the sugar and water until pale and creamy.
2. Preheat the oven to 150°C (use conventional heat, not convection, to avoid over-browning).
3. Melt the butter and let it cool before adding to the yolk mixture. Sift in the flour and salt, then gradually whisk in the warm milk and vanilla.
4. Whip the egg whites to stiff peaks and gently fold them into the batter using a whisk. The mixture will be thin and lumpy—don't overmix, as this preserves the layers.
5. Pour into a deep mold (20-24 cm diameter max) and bake at 150°C for 50 minutes.
For variations, try the magic raspberry cake or white chocolate version. Recipe adapted from Christelle Huet-Gomez's book The Magic Cake (Marabout) and her blog iletaitunefoislapatisserie.com.