Lithuanian Honey Cake, also lovingly known as Meduolis, is a true Baltic treasure. This layered cake, with its delicate honey aroma and subtle spice notes, is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a cake that speaks of warmth, tradition, and the magic of homemade baking.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this guide will walk you through each step to create your own delicious Lithuanian Honey Cake. Get ready to discover the secrets of this captivating cake and add a touch of Lithuanian charm to your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake Layers:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey
For the Honey Cream Filling:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools of the Trade:
- 2 mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Serrated knife
- Spatula
Baking Up a Storm: Your Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparing the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the honey. Make sure the honey is well incorporated into the batter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
2. Baking the Layers:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Whipping Up the Honey Cream:
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the honey cream filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the sour cream, heavy cream, honey, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
4. Assembling the Lithuanian Honey Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to carefully level the tops if necessary.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread half of the honey cream filling evenly over the cake layer.
- Top with the second cake layer and spread the remaining honey cream filling over the top and sides.
5. The Final Flourish:
- For a rustic look, crumble some of the cake scraps and sprinkle them over the top of the cake. You can also decorate with chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate if you wish.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Lithuanian Honey Cake Layers
Tips and Tricks from My Grandmother’s Kitchen:
- For a richer flavor, use dark honey instead of light honey.
- If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain yogurt.
- To prevent the cake from becoming too dense, don’t overmix the batter.
- This cake is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving.
FAQs About Lithuanian Honey Cake:
Q: Can I freeze Lithuanian Honey Cake?
A: Absolutely! This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What can I serve with Lithuanian Honey Cake?
A: This cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a cup of coffee or tea.
Q: I can’t find cloves. Can I make this cake without them?
A: Yes, you can omit the cloves if you don’t have them or prefer a milder flavor. The cake will still be delicious!
Slice of Lithuanian Honey Cake
A Taste of Tradition You’ll Cherish
Lithuanian Honey Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a taste of history and heritage. Baking this cake is like taking a step back in time, connecting with generations past who cherished this recipe.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a baking adventure. And while you’re at it, why not explore more delightful recipes from around the world? Check out our guide on How to Make Lithuanian Cake Napoleon for another taste of Lithuanian baking. Happy baking!
