Kitchengroot is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Honey cake is a timeless classic, beloved for its moist and tender crumb, delicate sweetness, and subtle floral notes. Made with the natural sweetness of honey, this cake embodies comfort and nostalgia with every bite.
Whether enjoyed as a simple afternoon treat with a cup of tea or dressed up with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a special occasion, honey cake never fails to delight. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own irresistible honey cake at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
Layering Ingredients (Optional)
- Food coloring or flavorings for additional layers
- Additional frosting or filling of your choice
Instructions
1.Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the Eggs and Honey
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated.
- Gradually pour in the honey and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
- With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
- Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Bake the Cake
- If creating layers, divide the batter evenly into separate bowls. Add food coloring or flavorings to each portion if desired.
- Pour each portion of batter into individual cake pans that have been greased and lined with parchment paper. Bake the layers according to the recipe instructions until they are cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If baking a single-layer cake, pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Place the pan(s) in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes (adjusting baking time if making multiple layers), or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
7. Cool and Assemble (for Layered Cake)
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks. Once cooled, carefully remove them from the cake pans and peel off the parchment paper.
- To assemble the layered cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting or filling over the top of the first layer. Repeat this process with the remaining cake layers and frosting, stacking them on top of each other.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with your desired frosting or icing. You can use a traditional buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting, or any other frosting of your choice.
- Decorate the cake with additional toppings or decorations, such as fresh fruit, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles, to add extra flavor and visual appeal.
8. Chill and Serve
- Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Slice and serve the layered honey cake, and enjoy!
Tips
- For added flavor, you can incorporate spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg into the batter.
- Make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature to ensure proper incorporation and a smoother batter.
- Store any leftover honey cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
With its rich flavor, moist texture, and delicate sweetness, homemade honey cake is a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a simple everyday treat or as a special dessert for gatherings and celebrations, this timeless classic is sure to bring joy to all who taste it. Follow this recipe and indulge in the sweet simplicity of honey cake, a beloved favorite that never goes out of style.
