Medovník (Traditional Slovak and Czech Honey Cake)

Layered honey cake with cream filling, a sweet and aromatic treat.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the cake layers:

• 250 g honey

• 100 g sugar

• 100 g butter

• 2 eggs

• 400 g all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

For the cream filling:

• 400 ml heavy cream or sour cream

• 100 g powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Optional: finely chopped walnuts or hazelnuts

To Finish:

• Crushed nuts or cookie crumbs for topping

Preparation

1. Prepare the dough:

   • In a saucepan, melt butter with honey and sugar.

   • Let cool slightly, then whisk in eggs.

   • Combine flour, baking soda, and cinnamon, and mix into the honey mixture to form a smooth dough.

2. Bake the layers:

   • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

   • Divide dough into 4–5 equal portions. Roll each portion thinly and bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 5–7 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Prepare the cream:

   • Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

   • Optional: fold in finely chopped nuts for added texture.

4. Assemble the cake:

   • Spread cream between each baked layer.

   • Stack layers evenly, then coat the top and sides with remaining cream.

   • Sprinkle crushed nuts or cookie crumbs over the top.

   • Refrigerate for several hours or overnight to let flavors meld.

Cooking Tips

• Roll dough thinly to ensure tender, delicate cake layers.

• Chill the assembled cake to allow the cream to set and the honey layers to soften for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled, cut into small slices, with coffee or tea.

• Pair with fresh berries or fruit compote for a festive touch.