Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
- Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together for about 5-7 minutes until thick and pale.
- In a separate bowl, mix honey, warm milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this mixture to your egg mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Flour time! Sift in the bread flour bit by bit, folding it gently into the batter until well incorporated.
- Pour the fluffy batter into your prepared pan and give it a light tap to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and cover it with plastic wrap to cool completely. This helps keep it moist.
- Once cooled, slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving suggestions for your Japanese castella cake can be quite creative. Slice it into squares and serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with matcha green tea or a light herbal tea, enhancing the complex flavors of the cake. For a special touch, drizzle a little more honey over the top before serving.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your castella cake stays fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Make sure to wrap each slice individually to maintain freshness. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar again if you like.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, follow these expert tips:
- Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs to achieve better volume when beating, which helps create that characteristic fluffiness.
- Sifting Flour: Always sift your flour before adding it to ensure there are no lumps and to incorporate air for a lighter cake.
- Gentle Folding: When mixing the batter, use a gentle folding technique to preserve the air you’ve incorporated; this is key to creating a light, airy texture.
Creative twists
Feel free to get playful with your castella cake! You can add flavor variations such as matcha powder for a subtle earthy taste, or incorporate lemon zest for a bright, refreshing hint. For a fun topping, try a thin layer of cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Gluten-free eaters might experiment with rice flour, though texture may differ.
Common questions
How long does it take to make Japanese castella cake?
The total time to make Japanese castella cake is roughly 1 hour, although you should allow additional time for cooling.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
While bread flour gives the cake a chewier structure, all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute, though the texture may be slightly denser.
Can I store leftovers in the fridge?
It’s advisable to store castella cake at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain its stunning texture. The fridge can dry it out; however, if you prefer it chilled, consume it within a day.
