Honey Cake Recipe – Honey has been treasured for centuries as a symbol of sweetness, prosperity, and comfort. When incorporated into a cake, it brings an irresistible depth of flavor—warm, floral, and naturally rich. This cake is especially beloved in Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and Jewish cuisines, where honey cakes are traditionally prepared for celebrations and holidays.
Recipe Overview
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Cuisine: Middle Eastern / European
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Course: Dessert / Tea Cake
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Servings: 10–12 slices
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Calories per Serving: Approx. 310 kcal
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Active Time: 20 minutes
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Resting Time: 1 hour cooling
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Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
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2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
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1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
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1 ½ tsp baking powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg
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¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
Wet Ingredients
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1 cup (240ml) honey
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½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
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3 large eggs
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1 cup (240ml) warm brewed tea or coffee
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp orange juice or lemon juice
Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowls
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Electric hand mixer or whisk
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Loaf pan or 9×9-inch cake pan
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Sifter or sieve
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Spatula
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Cooling rack
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Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Grease and lightly flour a loaf pan or square cake pan.
For easy removal, you may also line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
A warm oven ensures the cake rises properly and bakes evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together:
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All-purpose flour
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Sugar
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Baking powder
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Baking soda
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Salt
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Cinnamon
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Nutmeg
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Cloves
Mixing the dry ingredients well ensures an even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
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Honey
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Eggs
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Vegetable oil
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Warm brewed tea or coffee
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Vanilla extract
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Orange or lemon juice
The warm tea helps to thin the honey slightly, making it easier to blend smoothly.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture while stirring gently.
Use a whisk or spatula to mix just until everything is combined—avoid overmixing.
The batter should be smooth but not overly thick.
Step 6: Add Optional Enhancements
If using raisins, nuts, or zest, fold them in gently at this stage.
These add both flavor and texture to the cake.
Step 7: Pour Into Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared pan.
Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for:
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45–55 minutes for a loaf
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35–40 minutes for a 9×9 square pan
The cake is ready when:
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A toothpick inserted comes out clean
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The top is golden brown
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It springs back lightly when touched
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Then transfer to a cooling rack and let it rest completely for 1 hour.
Honey cakes become more flavorful and moist as they rest—often best served the next day.
Step 10: Serve
You can serve the cake as-is or enhance it with:
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A drizzle of warm honey
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Powdered sugar dusting
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Citrus glaze
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Whipped cream
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Fresh fruit
The warm spices combined with honey create a comforting, fragrant dessert perfect for any occasion.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 34 g |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 190 mg |
Values vary depending on added nuts, raisins, or toppings.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Cake
1. Use Warm Tea or Coffee
Helps combine the honey smoothly and enhances flavor.
2. Let It Rest
Honey cakes taste better the next day as the flavors deepen.
3. Do Not Overmix
A gentle hand results in a soft, tender crumb.
4. Add Citrus
A splash of orange juice or zest brightens the flavor beautifully.
5. Spices Matter
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a comforting, warm aroma.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best served with:
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A hot cup of tea
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Cappuccino or black coffee
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Fresh cream
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Greek yogurt
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Fruit compotes
Its flavor profile makes it an all-season crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
Honey cake is a timeless classic cherished for its warm spices, natural sweetness, and moist texture. Whether enjoyed during holidays, family gatherings, tea-time, or as a comforting weekday dessert, it delivers consistent satisfaction. Its simplicity, long shelf life, and ability to develop deeper flavor over time make it one of the most rewarding homemade cakes.
