Inipit - Filipino Custard-Filled Cake

Ingredients

• For the cake layers: For the cake layers:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• For the custard filling: For the custard filling:
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 28g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
7. 7.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   While the cake is baking, prepare the custard filling. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
9. 9.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
10. 10.
    Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
11. 11.
    Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
12. 12.
    Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
13. 13.
    Once the cake has cooled, spread the custard filling evenly over the top.
14. 14.
    Place another layer of cake on top of the custard filling and gently press down.
15. 15.
    Refrigerate the Inipit for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
16. 16.
    Cut into squares or rectangles and serve chilled.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. This will ensure a smooth and fluffy cake batter.
• Cornstarch — When adding cornstarch to the custard filling, make sure to whisk it with the sugar and egg yolks until well combined to avoid lumps in the custard.
• Milk — Use whole milk for a richer and creamier custard filling. Skim or low-fat milk may result in a less creamy texture.
• Vanilla extract — Choose a high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of both the cake layers and the custard filling.
• Baking pan — Grease and flour the baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more vibrant flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the custard filling.
• To achieve a lighter texture in the cake layers, sift the dry ingredients before incorporating them into the batter.
• If you prefer a sweeter custard filling, you can increase the amount of sugar to your taste.
• Allow the Inipit to chill in the refrigerator for a longer time, preferably overnight, to enhance the flavors and make it easier to slice.
• Serve the Inipit with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant presentation.

Serving advice

Serve the chilled Inipit squares or rectangles on a dessert plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a fresh mint leaf for an attractive presentation. Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or tea to complement the flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Inipit squares or rectangles on a serving platter in an alternating pattern, showcasing the layers of cake and custard. Drizzle a thin layer of caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of elegance. Serve with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.