Norwegian Honey Cake (Honningkake)
A rich and aromatic cake characterized by its deep sweetness from honey, warm spices, and often a hint of citrus. This moist cake is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g All-purpose flour
- 200 g Honey
- 100 g Granulated sugar
- 150 g Unsalted butter(melted)
- 120 ml Whole milk
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp Ground ginger
- 0.5 tsp Ground cloves
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 tbsp Orange zest(from 1 orange)
- 100 g Raisins(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or a 10-inch (25cm) tube pan.
💡 Tip: For a tube pan, baking time might be slightly longer. - 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
💡 Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can help prevent lumps. - 3
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- 4
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk and orange zest.
💡 Tip: Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. - 5
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using raisins, stir them in now.
💡 Tip: Coat raisins in a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking. - 6
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
- 7
Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
💡 Tip: Check for doneness around the 45-minute mark. - 8
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using good quality honey is key to the flavor.
- ✓The spices can be adjusted to personal preference.
- ✓This cake benefits from resting overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
🔄 Variations
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the batter.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or whipped cream.