Russian Honey Cake, or Medovik, is a traditional layered dessert known for its delicate honey-flavored cake layers and luscious sour cream frosting. This cake has a rich history and remains a favorite across Eastern Europe. With its soft, tender texture and perfectly balanced sweetness, Medovik is an elegant and flavorful treat that only gets better with time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and flavorful – The deep honey flavor is complemented by a light, creamy frosting.
- Soft, tender layers – The thin cake layers absorb the cream filling, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Traditional and authentic – A beloved Russian dessert with a history dating back over a century.
- Perfect for special occasions – An elegant centerpiece for celebrations, holidays, or tea time.
- Tastes better with time – Allowing the cake to sit overnight enhances its flavor and texture.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ½ cup honey
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Directions
- Prepare the dough: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the honey and sugar together until smooth.
- Incorporate eggs: Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs quickly to prevent scrambling.
- Form the dough: Stir in baking soda and gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms.
- Roll and bake: Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin round layer and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Repeat with all layers.
- Make the frosting: In a large bowl, whip the sour cream, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Assemble the cake: Layer the baked cake rounds with generous amounts of frosting, stacking them evenly.
- Let it rest: Cover the cake and let it sit overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to develop and the layers to soften.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 5-7 minutes per layer
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour (plus overnight resting time)
Variations
- Caramelized honey flavor – Cook the honey longer for a deeper, more intense taste.
- Nut topping – Sprinkle crushed walnuts or almonds between layers for added texture.
- Chocolate drizzle – Add a thin layer of melted chocolate on top for a unique twist.
- Berry-infused – Spread a thin layer of raspberry or strawberry jam between cake layers.
- Gluten-free option – Use a gluten-free flour blend for a wheat-free version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: Medovik is best served chilled or at room temperature; no reheating is required.
FAQs
What makes Medovik different from other layer cakes?
Medovik has thin honey-infused cake layers that soften over time, creating a unique melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, Medovik tastes best when left to rest overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.
How do I get evenly thin cake layers?
Roll the dough out between parchment sheets and use a round template or cake ring for consistent sizing.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be substituted for a slightly tangier taste.
Why does the cake need to rest overnight?
The cream filling absorbs into the cake layers, softening them and enhancing the flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with mascarpone or whipped cream cheese for a thicker consistency.
Can I add spices to the cake?
Yes, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the honey flavor.
Can I use store-bought dulce de leche in the frosting?
Yes, replacing some of the sour cream with dulce de leche adds a caramel-like richness.
What’s the best way to cut Medovik?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices for a neat presentation.
Can I bake all the layers at once?
If you have multiple baking trays, you can bake several layers at a time, rotating them for even baking.
Conclusion
Russian Honey Cake (Medovik) is a beautifully layered dessert that combines the warm, deep flavors of honey with a light and creamy frosting. This classic cake is simple to prepare yet sophisticated in taste, making it perfect for any special occasion. The longer it sits, the better it tastes, so take your time and enjoy this elegant treat at its best.
