Honey Cake (Medovik)

Step 2: Roll Out the Layers

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough: Once chilled, divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
3. Roll out the dough: Take one dough ball at a time and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a thin circle (about 1/8-inch thick). The size of the circle will depend on how large you want each cake layer to be, but try to keep them roughly the same size for even layers. You can roll out the dough directly on the parchment paper to make it easier to transfer.
4. Bake the layers: Place each rolled-out dough circle onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Watch closely, as the dough can quickly burn due to the honey content.
5. Cool the layers: Once baked, remove the layers from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. You may notice some of the layers may shrink or puff up slightly during baking—that’s perfectly fine. If you want perfectly even layers, you can trim the edges after cooling.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Combine the filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar (if using). Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but still spreadable. If you prefer a firmer filling, you can refrigerate the filling for a little while before using it.
2. Taste and adjust: Taste the filling and adjust sweetness if necessary. You can add more powdered sugar for extra sweetness or more vanilla for additional flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of the filling over the top of the first layer. Repeat the process for each of the remaining cake layers, spreading the filling between each layer as you go.
2. Crumb coat: Once all the layers are stacked, apply a thin layer of filling over the entire cake, ensuring that the sides and top are covered. This is your “crumb coat” to help smooth out any rough edges.
3. Crush extra cake scraps: If you have leftover scraps from trimming the edges of the cake layers, crush them into small crumbs and sprinkle them over the top and sides of the cake for a rustic look.
4. Chill the cake: Once the cake is assembled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight. Chilling the cake allows the layers to soften and the flavors to meld together, resulting in the perfect texture.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish and serve: Before serving, you can garnish the cake with chopped nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added flavor and texture.
2. Slice and enjoy: Slice the cake into generous portions and serve! The cake will have a slightly dense yet soft texture, with each layer melting in your mouth, and the creamy filling adding a luscious sweetness. It’s best enjoyed with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Why Medovik (Honey Cake) is So Special

• A Honey-Lover’s Dream: The honey in both the cake and filling provides a rich, natural sweetness that isn’t overpowering. Instead of using refined sugar, the honey gives the cake a deeper flavor and complexity, making each bite delightful.
• Layered Texture: The thin layers of cake are tender but hold their structure, while the filling binds everything together with its creamy smoothness. Each forkful offers a perfect balance of soft cake, sweet cream, and subtle honey flavor.
• Versatility: While Medovik is a classic in Russian and Eastern European households, it has universal appeal. It’s a showstopper at holiday gatherings, but it’s also simple enough for an afternoon tea or birthday celebration. The cake can be easily customized with different fillings, flavors, or toppings, allowing you to make it your own.
• Time-Tested Tradition: Medovik has stood the test of time as a family favorite. Passed down from generation to generation, this cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of cultural heritage that brings people together, often shared during special moments and celebrations.

Final Thoughts

Medovik is a dessert that is as comforting as it is delicious. The combination of honey and cream, with the delicate layers of sponge cake, makes it a treat that’s hard to forget. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this traditional Honey Cake is sure to impress. With a bit of patience and care, you can create this decadent dessert in your own kitchen and enjoy a slice of Russian tradition with every bite!