Honey cake is a classic dessert known for its rich, sweet flavor and moist texture. It's often enjoyed during Jewish holidays like Rosh Hashanah, but it's delicious year-round. Here’s a recipe for a traditional honey cake:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (240ml) honey
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or water
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (120ml) orange juice
- 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Glaze (optional):
- ¼ cup (60ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, vegetable oil, and granulated sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the hot coffee or water until combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt.
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Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the orange juice and chopped nuts (if using).
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Glaze (optional):
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Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water. Heat over low heat, stirring until the honey is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
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Apply the Glaze: Brush the warm glaze over the cooled cake for a shiny, sweet finish.
3. Serve:
- Slice and serve the honey cake at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with a cup of tea or coffee.
Enjoy your honey cake! Its sweet, spiced flavor and moist crumb make it a comforting and satisfying dessert.