Honey Cake
A wonderfully moist and fragrant honey cake, perfect for Rosh Hashanah or any special occasion. Spiced with cinnamon and ginger, with a deep, rich flavor from honey and coffee, this cake is a beloved classic that gets better with time.
For 12 servings
7 steps. 50 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- a.Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan or a 9x13 inch baking pan. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves. Whisking aerates the flour and distributes the leaveners and spices evenly.
- 3
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the room-temperature eggs until lightly beaten
- a.Then, add the vegetable oil, honey, brown sugar, cooled coffee, and orange zest. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- 4
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients
- a.Using a spatula or whisk, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and will ensure a tender cake.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Pour the batter into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- 6
Bake for 45-55 minutes
- a.The cake is done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be firm and spring back when lightly touched.
- 7
Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes
- a.This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove. Then, carefully invert it onto the rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1This cake's flavor deepens and the texture becomes moister after a day. It's an excellent make-ahead dessert.
- 2Use a mild-flavored honey like clover, orange blossom, or wildflower to let the spices shine through.
- 3The brewed coffee adds depth and richness without making the cake taste like coffee. You can substitute it with strong black tea or orange juice if you prefer.
- 4Do not overmix the batter. Mixing until just combined prevents the cake from becoming tough and dense.
- 5For a bundt pan, ensure every nook and cranny is greased and floured to prevent sticking. A non-stick baking spray with flour is also a great option.
- 6Ensure all your wet ingredients, especially the eggs and coffee, are at room temperature for a smoother, more uniform batter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Delight
Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.
Citrus GlazeCitrus Glaze
Whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of orange juice to create a simple glaze. Drizzle over the completely cooled cake.
Spice TwistSpice Twist
Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and a pinch of allspice along with the other spices for a more complex flavor profile.
Chocolate ChipChocolate Chip
For a modern twist, fold in 3/4 cup of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Quick Energy
The carbohydrates from flour and sugars in honey provide a quick boost of energy, making it a satisfying treat.
Comforting and Aromatic
The warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, combined with the sweetness of honey, create a comforting aroma and flavor that can be psychologically uplifting.
Frequently asked questions
Store the cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Its flavor and texture actually improve after the first day.