German Bee Sting Cake With Creamy Filling
German Bee Sting Cake is one of those desserts that feels special without being hard to make. It has a soft yeast cake base, a sweet honey almond topping, and a creamy filling that melts into every bite. The cake looks fancy when sliced, but the steps are simple and friendly even if you do not bake often.
I first made this cake for a weekend family dinner. Everyone asked for seconds. The mix of fluffy cake, crunchy topping, and smooth cream makes it hard to resist. If you enjoy classic layered desserts, you might also love my Russian Napoleon Cake or the rich Strawberry Shortcake Tres Leches Cake. Both have that soft creamy feel people enjoy.
This cake works well for birthdays, holidays, or any day when you want something a little extra without stress.

What Makes German Bee Sting Cake So Special
This cake stands out because of its texture. The base is light and soft, almost like a pillow. It is made with yeast, which gives it a gentle rise and a tender crumb.
The topping is another reason people love it. Butter, honey, sugar, and sliced almonds cook together until golden and sticky. Once baked, the topping turns crisp on the outside but stays slightly chewy underneath.
The filling brings it all together. A smooth vanilla cream sits between the cake layers and balances the sweetness. Every bite has soft cake, creamy filling, and a bit of crunch.
This cake has been baked in German homes for many years. It feels cozy, familiar, and comforting.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Cake
- All purpose flour
- Warm milk
- Active dry yeast
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Unsalted butter
- Salt
- Vanilla extract

For the Honey Almond Topping
- Unsalted butter
- Honey
- Granulated sugar
- Heavy cream
- Sliced almonds
For the Cream Filling
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla pudding mix or cornstarch and sugar
- Vanilla extract
These ingredients work together to create a cake that is soft, rich, and balanced without being too sweet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Pour warm milk into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and add a small spoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about five to ten minutes. The mixture should look foamy on top. This means the yeast is awake and ready.
Step 2: Make the cake dough
Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, salt, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Stir until blended. Slowly add the flour a little at a time. Mix until a soft dough forms. The dough should feel slightly sticky but smooth.
Step 3: Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it using your hands for about eight to ten minutes. Push it away from you, fold it back, and repeat. The dough will become elastic and soft. If it sticks too much, dust lightly with flour.
Step 4: First rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until doubled in size. This step builds the soft texture of the cake.

Step 5: Prepare the topping
While the dough rises, make the topping. Add butter, honey, sugar, and cream to a saucepan. Heat on medium and stir until everything melts together. Remove from heat and stir in the sliced almonds. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 6: Shape the dough
Once the dough has risen, press it gently to release air. Place it into a greased round baking pan. Use your hands to spread it evenly. Let it rest for another fifteen minutes.
Step 7: Add the topping
Spoon the honey almond mixture over the dough. Spread it gently so it covers the top. Be careful not to press too hard.
Step 8: Bake the cake
Preheat the oven. Bake the cake until the top is golden and bubbly. The almonds should look toasted and the center should feel set when lightly pressed. Remove and let cool completely.
Step 9: Make the cream filling
Whip the heavy cream until thick. Prepare the vanilla pudding according to directions or cook the cornstarch mixture until thick. Fold the whipped cream into the cooled pudding gently. This creates a light but stable filling.
Step 10: Slice the cake
Once the cake is fully cooled, carefully slice it in half horizontally. Use a long serrated knife and move slowly. Keep the almond topping intact.
Step 11: Fill the cake
Spread the cream filling evenly over the bottom half. Place the top layer back on gently. Press lightly to set.

Step 12: Chill before serving
Place the cake in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Always let the cake cool before slicing.
- Do not rush the rising time.
- Use sliced almonds for the best texture.
- Chill the cake before serving for clean slices.
These small steps make a big difference in the final result.
How to Store German Bee Sting Cake
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days. The cream filling needs cold storage to stay safe and smooth.
If you want to make it ahead, bake the cake base one day early and fill it the next day.
Variations You Can Try
- Use pastry cream instead of pudding filling.
- Add a touch of almond extract to the cream.
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Bake the cake in a square pan for easier slicing.
Each version keeps the heart of the cake while offering a new twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Bee Sting Cake?
The name comes from the honey topping. Some say the sweetness is sharp like a bee sting.
Can I make it without yeast?
Yeast gives this cake its classic texture. A non yeast version will be more like a regular sponge cake.
Can I freeze Bee Sting Cake?
Freezing is not recommended because the cream filling can change texture when thawed.
Is this cake very sweet?
It is balanced. The cake is mild and the cream softens the honey topping.
A Sweet Cake Worth Sharing
German Bee Sting Cake is one of those desserts that feels warm and welcoming. It brings soft cake, creamy filling, and a golden topping together in a way that feels homemade and special. Whether you serve it for a celebration or a quiet afternoon treat, it always feels like a good choice.
If you enjoy layered desserts with soft textures and rich flavor, this cake deserves a spot in your kitchen.
