Classic Anthill Cake
An original, beautiful, and affordable cake - perfect for any celebration! Thanks to its unique shape and name, this “Anthill Cake” delighted children for generations. Like many dishes from that era, it’s made from simple everyday ingredients.
Updated : 28 October, 2025
Easy
About 45 min.
Ingredients
Dough
400 grams
Wheat flour
200 grams
Butter
4 tablespoon
Sour cream
3 tablespoon
Sugar
2 teaspoon
Baking powder
to taste
Vanillin
to taste
Salt
Cream
380 grams
Boiled condensed milk
180 grams
Butter
Table
Table of volume measurements:
- teaspoon - 5 ml
- dessert spoon - 10 ml
- tablespoon - 20 ml
- glass - 200 ml
Preparation
Step 1
Prepare all ingredients. Use high-quality natural butter and sour cream with 20-25% fat. Add just a pinch of vanilla and a bit of salt to enhance the flavor.
Step 2
Make the shortcrust dough. Melt the butter (about 1 cup or 230 g) in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, then let it cool.
Step 3
While it cools, sift the flour (about 3 cups or 400 g) into a bowl - this aerates it for a lighter texture.
Step 4
Add the vanilla and baking powder, mixing well.
Step 5
Combine the cooled butter with ½ cup (100 g) sugar, a pinch of salt, and ½ cup (120 g) sour cream. Mix until smooth.
Step 6
Gradually add the butter mixture into the flour, stirring first with a spoon, then kneading by hand until soft, pliable, and non-sticky. Adjust flour as needed.
Step 7
Divide the dough into 2-4 portions, wrap in plastic, and freeze for 30 minutes - this makes it easier to grate.
Step 8
After 30 minutes, grate the dough on a large grater.
Step 9
Spread the grated dough evenly on a baking sheet (12×16 in / 30×40 cm) lined with parchment. It should form a thin layer.
Step 10
Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden. Adjust baking time based on your oven.
Step 11
Remove, cool slightly, then break into small pieces to make crumbs. Set aside.
Step 12
Prepare the cream. Use soft butter (¾ cup or 180 g) and 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) of boiled condensed milk.
Step 13
Beat the softened butter with a mixer for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 14
Add the condensed milk and beat until smooth and uniform in color.
Step 15
Combine the butter cream with the baked crumbs, mixing thoroughly until all pieces are coated.
Step 16
Transfer the mixture to a serving plate, shaping it into a mound resembling an anthill.
Step 17
Decorate the top with grated chocolate, poppy seeds, or sprinkles.
Step 18
Chill for several hours before serving to let the flavors blend. Enjoy this soft, nostalgic dessert!