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Classic Ukrainian Honey Medivnyk Spice Cake

Ukrainian Honey Medivnyk Spice Cake - featured image
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A moist, tender, and warmly spiced honey cake from Ukraine, perfect for cozy gatherings and simple indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (170g) honey (preferably mild, floral variety like acacia or clover)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or plain yogurt as substitute)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the honey and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold gently with a spatula after each addition without overmixing.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, starting to check at 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use softened butter (not melted) for best texture. Fold dry ingredients gently to avoid tough cake. Mild honey varieties work best to balance spices. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk plus vinegar. Adding nuts or dried fruits can enhance texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey cake, medivnyk, Ukrainian dessert, spice cake, moist cake, easy cake recipe, autumn dessert

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/classic-ukrainian-honey-medivnyk-spice-cake-recipe-easy-moist-tender-slices/