Description
Honey Layer Cake, also known as Medena Pita, is a traditional cake featuring thin, tender honey-infused layers baked to golden perfection. These layers are generously filled and assembled with a rich, creamy vanilla custard buttercream, then chilled overnight to develop deep flavors and a luscious texture. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Layers
- 100 g butter
- 150 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 4 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 450 g all-purpose flour
Cream Filling
- 1 l milk
- 200 g sugar
- 100 g flour
- 200 g butter, softened
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Honey Butter Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter with sugar and honey, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before whisking in the eggs and baking soda to activate the leavening.
- Make and Bake Layers: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture and knead to form a soft dough. Divide the dough into 4 to 5 equal parts. Roll each portion into a thin rectangular shape and bake each layer in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 6 to 7 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cook Custard Filling: In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and sugar with a small amount of cold milk to create a smooth paste. Slowly add the remaining milk, then cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the custard thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Filling: Whip the softened butter with vanilla extract until fluffy. Gradually add the cooled custard into the butter, mixing continuously until the filling becomes smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Cake: Spread the creamy filling evenly between each baked honey layer. Stack the layers carefully and gently press down to even out the cake.
- Chill for Best Flavor: Refrigerate the assembled cake overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set. Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder as desired.
Notes
- Ensure the custard filling is completely cooled before mixing with butter to prevent melting the butter.
- Roll layers thinly and evenly for best results and uniform baking.
- The cake tastes even better the next day due to flavor development during chilling.
- Use fresh honey for a richer flavor profile.
- Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder just before serving for elegance.
