Medovik

Medovik (Russian: Медовик, from мёд – 'honey') is a layer cake popular in countries of the former Soviet Union. The identifying ingredients are honey and smetana (sour cream) or condensed milk.[1]

Medovik

Medovik cake with powdered sugar
Place of origin	Former USSR
Main ingredients	Flour, eggs, sugar, honey, smetana or condensed milk
Cookbook: Medovik   Media: Medovik

It is a dessert which is known for its lengthy preparation time. It consists of layers of sponge cake with a cream filling and is often covered with nuts or crumbs made from leftover cake. While the thin layers harden shortly after coming out of the oven, the moisture of the filling softens it again over time.[2] There are many recipes and variations of this cake, but, the main ingredient is honey, giving it the characteristic taste and flavor.[3]

The cake was created in the 19th century in the Russian Empire by a young chef who sought to impress Empress Elizabeth Alexeievna, wife of Alexander I.[4] Empress Elizabeth couldn’t stand honey, and any dish made with it drove her mad. One day, however, a young new confectioner in the Imperial kitchen didn’t know the Empress' dislike, and he baked a new cake with honey and thick sour cream. Surprisingly, and unaware of the honey content, Empress Elizabeth immediately fell in love with it.[5] Medovik gained its intense popularity during the Soviet era.[6][7] Today, there are numerous variations of medovik: with condensed milk, buttercream or custard.