Description
This naturally sweetened Honey Cake is an incredibly tender and melt-in-your-mouth dessert that is easy to make in a round cake pan. Moist, flavorful, and topped with sliced almonds, this honey cake is perfect for any occasion and highlights the beautiful blend of honey, orange juice, and zest for a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature
- ⅔ cup honey
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 pinch orange zest
Topping
- ⅓ cup sliced almonds for cake top
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Generously grease an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan with nonstick cooking spray, baking spray, or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
- Cream butter and honey: In a separate larger bowl, cream the softened butter and honey together using a mixer for 2 to 3 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to fully incorporate the ingredients, resulting in a smooth and fluffy mixture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and then incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing. The batter should be thick but soft.
- Add orange flavors: Stir in the orange juice and orange zest gently into the batter until almost smooth.
- Pour and top: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the surface.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Start checking around 35 minutes by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when done and the top should feel springy to the touch. If the almonds or top begin to brown too much, cover loosely with foil.
- Cool before slicing: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest to elevate the honey’s natural flavor.
- Check cake early to avoid over-baking, as ovens vary.
- Cover loosely with foil if almonds or top brown too quickly during baking.
- Allow cake to cool before slicing to maintain its delicate texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American