Muraveynik: The Soviet funnel cake
Every Russian family has its own version of muraveynik. This cake, whose name translates as “anthill,” was created during the Soviet era by quick-witted housewives who needed to make something sweet when there was little to be had on store shelves. Muraveynik could be made from inexpensive, available ingredients and didn’t require a great deal of skill, making it a go-to dessert.
In its simplest form, a muraveynik consists of crumbled cookies mixed with cream and piled into a hill shape. Our recipe requires a few more steps, but will be sure to delight and surprise your guests.
How to make it:
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 200 g butter
- 100 g sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 pinch salt
- 700 g flour
For the cream:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 150 g butter
1. Make the cream: boil a can of sweetened condensed milk for 2.5-3 hours. Make sure the can is is completely submerged in the water the entire time. Blend the boiled sweetened condensed milk with the butter.
2. Make the dough: Combine the butter and sugar. Add milk, salt, baking soda and flour. Knead the dough, roll it out and cut it into pieces.
3. Place the cookie pieces on a baking tray. Bake at 180º Celcius (360º Farenheit) for 25-30 minutes.
4. When the cookies are cool, break them in pieces (not too small - they shouldn’t be crumbs).
5. Mix the crumbled cookies into the cream and form into a hill.
Refrigerate for at least three hours or overnight. You can top the cake with powdered sugar, poppy seeds or chocolate chips, depending on your preference and imagination.
Bon Appétit!
