If you’ve never tried Crinkle Cake, get ready to fall in love with this crispy, buttery, and custard-filled dessert. Made with layers of flaky phyllo dough, soaked in a sweet and creamy custard, then baked until golden and finished with a drizzle of syrup, this cake is a unique and delightful twist on traditional pastries.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering, brunch, or just indulging in a sweet treat, this crinkle cake is easy to make and absolutely delicious. With its perfect balance of crispiness and rich, creamy flavor, every bite is a heavenly experience.
Why This Recipe Works
- Crispy, buttery texture – The phyllo dough creates light, airy layers with a golden crunch.
- Rich custard filling – The milk and egg mixture soaks into the layers, making them soft inside.
- Sweet and satisfying – A drizzle of simple syrup or honey adds the perfect finishing touch.
- Easy to make – No complicated steps, just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6-8 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Bake Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 55 mins)
For the Crinkle Cake:
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 16-20 sheets)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Custard:
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Syrup:
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or orange blossom water (optional)
How to Make Crinkle Cake
1. Preheat & Prep the Phyllo Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Roll up each sheet of phyllo dough loosely like an accordion and place it in the baking dish side by side.
2. Bake the Phyllo for Crispiness
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the phyllo layers.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the phyllo is lightly golden and crispy.
3. Prepare the Custard
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the custard evenly over the baked phyllo, letting it soak into the layers.
4. Bake Until Golden
- Return to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
5. Make the Syrup
- In a small saucepan, heat sugar, water, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Simmer until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in honey or orange blossom water (if using).
6. Drizzle & Serve
- Once the cake is out of the oven, drizzle the warm syrup over the top.
- Let it soak in for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Pro Tips & Variations
🔹 Want extra crunch? Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds on top before serving.
🔹 Make it chocolatey – Add mini chocolate chips between the phyllo layers before baking.
🔹 Prefer a richer flavor? Use sweetened condensed milk instead of sugar in the custard.
🔹 Dairy-free option – Swap milk for almond or coconut milk and use plant-based butter.
🔹 Want a stronger citrus flavor? Add a bit of orange zest to the syrup for a bright, zesty finish.
What to Serve with Crinkle Cake
This dessert is delicious on its own, but pairs beautifully with:
- A scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream – Adds a creamy contrast.
- A cup of hot tea or coffee – Perfect for a cozy treat.
- Fresh berries – Strawberries or raspberries complement the sweet flavors.
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt – A lighter topping to balance the richness.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Crinkle cake stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature. Just reheat slightly before serving for the best texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze crinkle cake?
A: Yes! Wrap the baked and cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Q: Do I have to use syrup?
A: No, but it adds an extra layer of sweetness! You can drizzle it with honey or dust with powdered sugar instead.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crinkle Cake is the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and sweet, making it a unique and unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! What’s your favorite way to enjoy crinkle cake? 🍰✨
Crinkle Cake: The Flaky, Buttery Dessert You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or orange blossom water (optional)
- 8 sheets of phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a greased baking dish, brushing it lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 4 more sheets, layering and buttering each one.
- Pour half of the custard mixture over the layered phyllo.
- Add another layer of 4 sheets of phyllo, again brushing each with butter.
- Pour the remaining custard mixture over the top layer of phyllo.
- Finish with any remaining phyllo sheets, brushing with butter, and tuck the edges in.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then drizzle with honey or syrup before serving.
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