Ukrainian Honey Cake

Written by on in Lunch

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This time of year is both exciting and dreary. Fluffy, soft snow has been replaced with rain, sleet, and sloppy mud. I find myself looking forward to the warm, summer days just around the corner. Until then, I take solace in curling up on the couch with a nice, hot cup of tea and a piece of one of my favorite cakes.

I first had this cake over five years ago when a friend of mine brought it to a potluck. She’s Ukrainian and wanted to share a traditional dessert with the group. It was love at first bite! The sweet, honey flavor of the cake layers combines with a rich cream cheese and sour cream frosting, creating a splendidly sweet treat. This cake is a popular dessert in Ukrainian and Russian households here in the U.S. If you don’t want to make it, you can find it in most Russian food stores. It’s a common staple at Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s dinners, and if you do try this recipe you’ll discover why this decadently delicious confection is reserved for special occasions. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ukrainian Honey Cake is a delightful blend of sweetness and texture that will transport you straight to a cozy kitchen in Eastern Europe. Its delicate layers are infused with honey, offering a warm, inviting aroma, and the creamy filling is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this cake is a treat you won’t want to miss.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Four 9×13 inch cake pans
  • Aluminum foil
  • Bread knife
  • Cooking spray

Ingredients

Batter:

  • 3 tsp. white vinegar
  • 2 tsp. baking soda
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 1/4 cups sugar
  • 4 Tbs. honey
  • 6 eggs

Filling:

  • 2 – 8 oz packages of cream cheese
  • 16 oz container of sour cream
  • 16 oz container of whipped cream
  • Powdered sugar to taste (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter:

  1. Preheat your oven to 320 degrees.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mix 2 tsp. baking soda and 2 tsp of vinegar together. Allow it to bubble, then add the remaining tsp. of vinegar.
  3. Add the flour, sugar, honey, and eggs to the mixture and mix well.
  4. Line four 9×13 inch cake pans with aluminum foil and spray them with cooking spray to coat.
  5. Pour 1/4 of the batter into each pan and bake for about 10 minutes.

Preparing the Filling:

  1. Using an electric mixer, mix sour cream and cream cheese until completely smooth.
  2. Add the whipped cream and continue mixing until well blended.
  3. If desired, add powdered sugar to taste for a sweeter frosting.

Assembling the Cake:

  1. Allow the cake layers to cool completely.
  2. Carefully peel the aluminum foil off each layer and stack them together.
  3. Using a bread knife, slice about 1 inch off each side of the cake for even edges.
  4. Spread the filling between each layer, reserving enough to cover the top and sides of the cake.
  5. Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before assembly to prevent the filling from melting.
  • Use a serrated bread knife for clean, even cuts when trimming the cake edges.
  • Add a dash of cinnamon on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

  • For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or almonds between the layers.
  • Try substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream in the filling for a lighter option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While the exact nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes, this cake is a rich source of energy and contains a moderate amount of protein and fat from the cream cheese and eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze the cake? Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I use instead of honey? Maple syrup can be a substitute, but it will change the flavor slightly. Honey is recommended for the authentic taste.

Conclusion

This Ukrainian Honey Cake is a beautiful blend of tradition and flavor that will surely become a favorite in your home. Its delightful layers and creamy filling make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Give it a try and share your experience with friends and family. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out!

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