Dream Cake recipe

Dream Cake is a rich and indulgent Pakistani dessert, layered with soft

sponge, creamy custard, and a decadent chocolate topping. Perfect for special

occasions, this cake melts in your mouth and lives up to its dreamy name!

Dream Cake—A Pakistani Dessert to Fall in

Love With

When we talk about desserts that leave a lasting impression, Dream Cake tops

the list for many dessert lovers across Pakistan. This luscious layered treat

has taken social media and home kitchens by storm, becoming a staple at

family gatherings, Eid celebrations, and even casual tea parties. What makes

Dream Cake so special because of its soft sponge base, silky vanilla custard center,

and glossy chocolate ganache topping—a combination that is simply

irresistible.

Though Dream Cake may look fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make with

everyday kitchen ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced

baker, this dessert offers the perfect balance between effort and reward.

Let’s dive into the magic behind this dreamy Pakistani dessert.

What is Dream Cake?

Dream Cake is a layered dessert consisting of three primary components:

1. Soft vanilla sponge cake

2. Creamy vanilla custard filling

3. Rich chocolate ganache topping

Unlike traditional cakes that are often frosted and decorated, Dream Cake is

usually served in trays or bowls and eaten chilled with a spoon.

Its pudding-like texture and creamy richness make it a favourite, especially

during hot summer months.

The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and

Let the flavours blend beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make a classic dream cake at home. The ingredients

are divided into three parts for clarity

For the Sponge Cake:

4 large eggs

1 cup powdered sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp baking powder

¼ cup milk (optional, for moistness)

For the custard layer:

2 cups milk

3 tbsp vanilla custard powder (or cornflour with vanilla essence)

4 tbsp sugar

½ cup cream (optional, for extra richness)

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

100 g dark or semi-sweet chocolate (chopped or chips)

½ cup fresh cream

1 tbsp butter (for gloss)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down the process to make it foolproof:

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Grease and line a rectangular baking tray or deep dish (8x8 inches works

well).

3. In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light, fluffy, and tripled in

volume. This will take 5–7 minutes with an electric beater.

4. Add vanilla extract.

5. Sift in flour and baking powder gradually. Fold gently with a spatula to

maintain the airy texture.

6. If the batter feels thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time.

7. Pour into the prepared tray and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick

inserted comes out clean.

8. Let the cake cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard Layer

1. Mix custard powder with a few tablespoons of milk to form a smooth paste.

2. In a saucepan, bring the rest of the milk and sugar to a boil.

3. Lower the heat and gradually add the custard paste while stirring continuously.

ly.

4. Cook until it thickens into a creamy pudding consistency.

5. Turn off the heat and stir in cream (if using) for extra richness.

6. Let it cool slightly before layering.

1. Once the cake has cooled, poke a few holes gently using a fork. This helps

the custard seeps in slightly, making the cake moister.

2. Pour the warm custard evenly over the sponge layer. Spread it with a

spatula.

3. Chill the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30–40 minutes before adding the ganache.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer. Do not boil.

2. Turn off the heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let it sit for a

minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.

3. Let it cool slightly, then pour it over the custard layer. Spread evenly.

4. Refrigerate the assembled Dream Cake for at least 4–6 hours

(Overnight is best).

Serving Tips

Dream Cake is best served chilled with a spoon.

Sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or even sliced strawberries on top

before serving for an extra touch.

You can also layer it in individual dessert cups for a fancy presentation at

parties.

For a caramel twist, drizzle some caramel sauce between the custard and

ganache layers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Make-Ahead Friendly:

Perfect for busy days and dinner parties.

Kid-Friendly:

Sweet, soft, and mess-free—children love it!

Customisable:

You can play around with the flavours—try coffee custard or white chocolate

ganache for a twist.

No Fancy Equipment Needed:

Just basic kitchen tools and a baking tray.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbeating the batter:

Fold gently after adding flour to keep the sponge airy.

Hot custard on hot cake:

Let both cool slightly before assembling to avoid sogginess.

Thin ganache:

Use good-quality chocolate and the right cream-to-chocolate ratio.

Rushing the chill time:

Dream Cake tastes best when given time to set.

❄ Freezing Tips for Dream Cake

You can freeze dream cake for up to 2 months.

Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil, or store them in an

airtight

container.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

For best texture, avoid freezing the cake with custard or cream topping already applied.

Freeze the cake layers separately and add custard when serving.

🧊 Storage Tips for Dream Cake

Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.

Keep it in an airtight container to prevent the custard topping from drying out.

Avoid storing at room temperature due to the perishable ingredients like milk.

cream, and custard.

🔥 Reheating Instructions

Dream cake is best served chilled or at room temperature.

If you want to slightly warm it, microwave for 10–15 seconds, but be careful

not to melt the custard or topping.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Can I make dream cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the sponge and prepare the custard a day before. Assemble

the layers and refrigerate overnight for best flavour.

Q. Why is my custard runny?

The custard might be undercooked or not properly chilled. Make sure to cook

it until thick and let it set fully in the fridge.

Q. Can I use store-bought custard?

Yes, but homemade custard gives a fresher and more authentic flavour.

Q. Can I skip the topping?

Yes, but the topping adds the signature dreamy texture and taste.

You can reduce it if you want a lighter version.

Q. Is it okay to serve dream cake warm?

It’s typically served chilled, but a slightly warm sponge with chilled custard

also tastes good.

Final Thoughts