Description
This traditional 8-Layer Honey Cake, known as Medovik, features thin, honey-infused cake layers stacked with a rich sour cream and whipped cream filling. The cake is delicately sweet with a balanced honey flavor, perfect for celebrations or dessert lovers seeking a classic Eastern European treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Layers
- 4 Tbsp honey (1/4 cup)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs (room temperature, beaten with a fork)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (unbleached, organic recommended)
Filling & Frosting
- 32 oz sour cream
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Optional Garnish
- 1/2 lb strawberries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Mixture and Dough: In a saucepan, gently melt together honey, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter over low heat until fully combined and smooth. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Beat the eggs in a bowl, then gradually add to the honey mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Once combined, sprinkle baking soda over the mixture and stir; the mixture will foam slightly. Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour until a soft, elastic dough forms.
- Roll and Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, roughly 8-inch round layer on a lightly floured surface. Place each layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 3 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the layers to cool completely before assembling.
- Make the Cream Filling and Assemble the Cake: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Separately, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the sour cream mixture to create a light, fluffy filling. Spread a generous amount of cream between each cake layer, stacking them carefully as you go. After assembling all layers, frost the top and sides with the remaining cream. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the cake to set. Optional: garnish with fresh sliced strawberries before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the honey mixture.
- Rolling the dough very thin ensures delicate, tender cake layers.
- The cake benefits from resting in the refrigerator overnight to fully develop flavor and texture.
- Fresh strawberries add a nice tart freshness but can be omitted for a classic version.
- Ensure the sour cream is thick for the best filling consistency.
