The Art of Honey Cake
Chris Isidore
| 26-11-2024
· Food Team
Layered Honey Cake, known as Medovik in some parts of Europe, is a stunning dessert featuring multiple layers of honey-infused cake and creamy filling.
Loved for its golden honey flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this cake is a perfect addition to any dessert spread.
Here's everything you need to know about Layered Honey Cake, from its recipe to top tasting spots, prices, and tips for serving, curated especially for Lykkers who enjoy a refined sweet treat.

The Rich History and Flavor of Honey Cake

Layered Honey Cake has long been cherished in Eastern European cuisine and is said to have royal roots. This cake has been beloved for centuries, thanks to its harmonious blend of sweet honey and rich cream. As the layers sit, the flavors deepen, making the cake even more delicious after a day of resting.
With each bite, the honey-kissed cake and the tangy, smooth cream filling create a balanced sweetness that delights the senses.

A Simple Layered Honey Cake Recipe

For Lykkers interested in baking at home, here's a straightforward recipe to make a classic Layered Honey Cake. Although it takes some time and patience, the result is a showstopping dessert.
Ingredients:
3/4 cup honey
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
3 cups sour cream
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Honey Layers: In a saucepan, combine honey, sugar, and butter over medium heat. Stir until melted, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Remove from heat, add flour and baking soda, and knead into a dough. Divide into 8–10 balls.
2. Bake the Layers: Roll each ball thinly and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 5–7 minutes or until golden. Trim edges to ensure even layers.
3. Make the Cream Filling: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream and powdered sugar until smooth.
4. Assemble the Cake: Layer cake rounds with a generous spread of cream filling in between each layer. Cover the top and sides with the remaining cream and sprinkle with cake crumbs.
5. Chill Overnight: Let the cake sit in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with a drizzle of honey or fresh berries for a finishing touch.

Medovik - Russian Honey Cake Recipe

Video by The Cooking Foodie

Top Spots to Enjoy Layered Honey Cake

For Lykkers who want to enjoy Layered Honey Cake without the baking, here are some top spots known for serving this delightful dessert:
Eastern European Cafés: Many Eastern European cafés and bakeries worldwide serve authentic Layered Honey Cake. Prices typically range from $6 to $10 per slice, depending on the location and café ambiance.
Balthazar Bakery (New York, USA): This well-known bakery offers a delicious Layered Honey Cake made with high-quality ingredients. Priced around $9 per slice, it's a popular choice for those seeking European-inspired desserts in New York City.
Little Georgia Café (London, UK): Known for Eastern European delicacies, this cozy café serves a rich, creamy Layered Honey Cake priced at about £5 per slice, offering a lovely treat to pair with tea or coffee.

Pairing Suggestions for Layered Honey Cake

Layered Honey Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments, adding to its appeal:
Hot Black Tea or Herbal Tea: The cake's honey flavors are balanced nicely with black tea, or for a different twist, try it with a light chamomile or mint tea.
Fresh Berries: Serve with raspberries or strawberries to add a touch of tartness, which complements the cake's rich sweetness and provides a vibrant color contrast.
Honey Drizzle: For a little extra indulgence, drizzle honey over each slice before serving. This enhances the honey flavor, adding a glossy finish that looks beautiful on the plate.

Tips for Perfecting Layered Honey Cake

Use Quality Honey: The flavor of honey is central to this cake, so select a high-quality, aromatic honey for the best taste.
Prepare in Advance: Layered Honey Cake improves with time. Make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Roll Layers Thinly: Thin layers help create the classic delicate texture of the cake, with a tender but satisfying bite.

Final Thoughts

Layered Honey Cake is a dessert that brings together the luxurious sweetness of honey and the creaminess of sour cream in a beautiful, multi-layered presentation. For Lykkers, trying this cake is not only about enjoying a delightful dessert but also experiencing a piece of European culinary tradition.
Whether you find it in a café or bake it at home, Layered Honey Cake is sure to impress with its elegant flavors and unforgettable texture.