Easy Honey Cake Recipe
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- Large bowl
INGREDIENTS
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup/100 grams white sugar
- ½ cup/120 grams brown sugar
- 1 cup/200 grams oil
- 1 cup/240 milliliters hot water
- 2 tea bags
- ½ cup/120 grams honey
- 2¼ cups/315 grams self-rising flour
- 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cacao powder
- ½ teaspoon/2.5 grams baking soda
- Powdered sugar for dusting
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 340°F (170°C).
- Fill a kettle with water and bring it to a boil. In a bowl, combine the honey and hot water, stir, and add 2 tea bags. Let them steep until the tea releases its color, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, and white sugar. Add the oil and stir until combined.
- Add the cinnamon, cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and the honey-tea mixture. Whisk thoroughly until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 24 cm (9.5-inch) baking pan and bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool. Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy!
MY NOTES
FAQ
Can I substitute sugar in this easy honey cake recipe?
You can substitute the sugar in this easy honey cake recipe with alternative sweeteners. Options like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar can work well. However, these substitutes may slightly alter the cake’s flavor and texture. Coconut sugar adds a caramel-like flavor, while maple syrup and agave nectar will increase moisture. If using liquid sweeteners, reduce the oil or water slightly to balance the moisture levels. Experimenting with these alternatives can still yield a delicious cake, but you may need to adjust other ingredients to maintain the cake’s structure and consistency.
What type of honey works best for this easy honey cake recipe?
A mild, light honey, such as clover or wildflower, works best for this easy honey cake recipe. These types of honey have a subtle sweetness that doesn’t overpower the other flavors in the cake. Darker honeys, like buckwheat or manuka, have stronger, more intense flavors that can dominate the cake’s taste, which may not be ideal for everyone. If you prefer a richer honey flavor, feel free to experiment with different varieties. Ultimately, the type of honey you choose will impact the flavor profile, but any good-quality honey will produce a delicious result.
How do I ensure the honey cake stays moist?
To keep your honey cake moist, follow these tips: don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser cake. Use oil instead of butter for extra moisture, and the combination of honey and tea in the recipe helps retain moisture as well. Be mindful of the baking time—overbaking can dry out the cake. Check the cake with a toothpick towards the end of baking and remove it once moist crumbs stick to the toothpick. After baking, store the cake in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Can I make this easy honey cake recipe gluten-free?
You can make this honey cake gluten-free by substituting the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes a leavening agent, such as baking powder. Many gluten-free blends are available on the market that mimic the texture of regular flour, making the substitution seamless. Additionally, ensure that other ingredients, such as cocoa powder or baking soda, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. The texture may be slightly different, but with the right flour, you’ll still achieve a moist and delicious honey cake that’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
What size pan should I use for this easy honey cake recipe?
This easy honey cake recipe is designed for a 24 cm (9.5-inch) round baking pan, which is the ideal size to ensure even baking and proper rise. You can also use a square or rectangular pan, such as an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan, if preferred. If you decide to use a smaller pan or a bundt pan, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as thicker cakes may take longer to bake. Just keep an eye on the cake and use a toothpick to test for doneness. Different pan sizes may affect baking time but will still yield a delicious cake.
How can I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?
To prevent your honey cake from sinking in the middle, avoid overmixing the batter, which can cause too much air to be incorporated, leading to collapse during baking. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the cake inside. Opening the oven door too early or frequently can cause the cake to sink as it disrupts the baking process. Additionally, measure your leavening agents (like baking soda) accurately, as too much can cause the cake to rise too quickly and then fall. Baking the cake at the right temperature is key to even cooking.
How long does this honey cake stay fresh?
This honey cake stays fresh for up to 4-5 days if stored properly. After the cake has completely cooled, store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor. If kept at room temperature, place it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight. You can also refrigerate the cake, which will extend its freshness for up to a week, but make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Toppings you can add to this easy honey cake recipe
You can easily customize this easy honey cake recipe by adding nuts, dried fruits, or other toppings. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds make great additions for extra texture and flavor. You can fold them into the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking for a crunchy topping. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also be mixed into the batter to add a bit of sweetness and chewiness. Be mindful of how many extras you add to avoid weighing down the batter, but overall, this recipe is flexible for personalizing with your favorite ingredients.
