Print

Layered Honey Cake: Croatian Medena Pita Recipe

Layered Honey Cake: Croatian Medena Pita Recipe

4.7 from 5 reviews

Indulge in the rich flavors of Croatian cuisine with this delicious Layered Honey Cake, known as Medena Pita. This traditional Balkan dessert features tender cake layers sandwiched between a luscious vanilla custard filling, creating a decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the cake layers:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk

For the filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

For topping:

  • powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking pans with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the cake layers: Mix butter, sugar, honey, eggs, and milk. Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Divide into parts, roll out, and bake.
  3. Make the filling: Cook milk, sugar, cornstarch, and flour until thickened. Mix in vanilla. Cream butter and powdered sugar, then combine with the custard.
  4. Assemble the cake: Layer cake and filling, ending with a cake layer on top. Refrigerate overnight.
  5. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • This cake improves with time—let it rest 24 hours for best texture and flavor.
  • Slice into squares or bars for serving. Keep refrigerated.

Nutrition