Description
This Orange Ginger Honey Cake combines the zesty brightness of fresh oranges with warm ginger spices and the natural sweetness of honey to create a moist, flavorful cake. Perfect as a comforting dessert or a delightful afternoon treat, this cake is enhanced with a light honey-orange glaze that adds a glossy finish and extra burst of citrus aroma.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup raw honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
Optional Glaze
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the melted unsalted butter with raw honey until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and grated fresh ginger to infuse the batter with bright citrus and warming spice flavors.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and moist.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Optional Glaze: While the cake is baking, combine 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of orange juice in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the honey dissolves and the mixture is well combined; set aside.
- Cool and Glaze: After removing the cake from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Brush the honey-orange glaze evenly over the top while the cake is still warm to add shine and extra flavor.
- Serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. Serve as is or with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack or dessert.
Notes
- For a more intense ginger flavor, increase fresh grated ginger or add crystallized ginger pieces to the batter.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest for the best natural orange flavor.
- The optional glaze adds moisture and a glossy finish, but the cake is delicious without it.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake can be frozen wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
Keywords: Orange ginger cake, honey cake, citrus cake, spiced cake, moist cake, homemade cake