Marlenka

Indulge in the decadent layers of Marlenka, a traditional Eastern European honey cake that combines irresistible flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This masterpiece is crafted with six delicate, golden-brown cake layers made from a honey-infused dough, baked to perfection. These layers are generously filled with a luscious, silky cream made from sweetened condensed milk, butter, and a hint of vanilla, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. A sprinkling of finely chopped walnuts adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Ideal for special occasions or as a gourmet dessert, Marlenka requires a bit of patience to prepare but rewards with an unparalleled flavor experience. Let the cake chill for hours as the flavors harmonize, and serve it slightly softened for a timeless treat that’s both indulgent and elegant. Perfect for lovers of honey recipes, walnut desserts, and layered cakes!

Nutriscore Rating: 42/100

Prep Time:45 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 600 grams All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 120 grams Butter
• 200 grams Granulated sugar
• 200 grams Honey
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 can (397 grams) Sweetened condensed milk
• 200 grams Butter (for filling)
• 100 grams Walnuts, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease and line the bottom of a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, melt 120 grams of butter over low heat. Add 200 grams of sugar and 200 grams of honey. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Slowly incorporate the warm honey mixture into the eggs, stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.

Step 4

Sift together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add this to the honey mixture, stirring to form a dough. The dough will be sticky.

Step 5

Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten each ball into a thin, round layer about the size of your cake pan. Use additional flour for rolling so the dough doesn't stick.

Step 6

Bake each dough layer separately in the prepared cake pan for about 7-9 minutes or until golden brown. Let each layer cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 7

For the filling, beat 200 grams of softened butter with the sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 8

To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of filling on top, then sprinkle with chopped walnuts.

Step 9

Repeat the process with the remaining layers and filling. Reserve a little filling and some walnuts for the cake's top.

Step 10

Spread the remaining filling over the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts.

Step 11

Refrigerate the marlenka for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 12

Before serving, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for optimal texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1925.8 grams (1925.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7967

Total Fat 378.80g	486%
Saturated Fat 189.60g	948%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.40g
Cholesterol 1226mg	409%
Sodium 2584mg	112%
Total Carbohydrate 1053.00g	383%
Dietary Fiber 23.00g	82%
Total Sugars 585.10g
Protein 124.80g	250%

Vitamin D 232IU	1158%
Calcium 1436mg	110%
Iron 34mg	191%
Potassium 2854mg	61%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.0%

Protein: 6.1%

Carbs: 51.9%