Bienenstich

Bienenstich

Bienenstich, also known as "bee sting cake," is a traditional German dessert that is loved for its sweet and nutty flavors. This article will provide you with a detailed overview of the Bienenstich cake, including its history, ingredients, preparation method, and variations.

History

The origins of Bienenstich can be traced back to the 15th century in Germany. The cake got its name from the honey glaze on top, which often attracts bees. Legend has it that a baker in the town of Andernach was stung by a bee while making a cake, and the resulting creation became a local favorite. Since then, Bienenstich has become a popular dessert across Germany and has gained international recognition.

Ingredients

The traditional Bienenstich cake consists of two main components: a yeast-based dough and a creamy filling. The dough is made using flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and yeast. The filling typically consists of a rich vanilla custard or a sweetened whipped cream. The cake is then topped with a honey and almond glaze, which gives it a distinctive flavor and texture.

Preparation

To prepare Bienenstich, start by making the dough. Combine flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and yeast in a mixing bowl and knead until a smooth dough forms. Allow the dough to rise for about an hour until it doubles in size. Once the dough has risen, roll it out and place it in a greased baking pan. Bake the dough in a preheated oven until it turns golden brown.

While the dough is baking, prepare the filling. If using a vanilla custard, cook the custard mixture on the stovetop until it thickens. Let it cool before spreading it over the baked dough. Alternatively, whip the cream until stiff peaks form and spread it over the dough.

For the honey and almond glaze, combine honey and sliced almonds in a saucepan and heat until the mixture becomes syrupy. Pour the glaze over the cake, allowing it to seep into the filling and dough. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Variations

While the traditional Bienenstich recipe remains popular, there are several variations of this cake. Some recipes incorporate different flavors into the filling, such as chocolate or fruit preserves. Others may use different types of nuts or add a layer of marzipan between the dough and filling. These variations allow for personalization and experimentation with flavors.

See Also

• German Cuisine
• Cake
• Honey