As we approach the Jewish New Year, there’s no better way to usher in the sweetness of the year ahead than with a traditional honey cake. This honey cake is not only delicious, but it’s also rich in symbolism. Get ready to make your Rosh Hashanah celebration even more special with this amazing honey cake recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup honey (for extra sweetness, use local honey)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or a bundt pan.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium-sized bowl. Set aside this aromatic mixture; it’ll infuse your cake with cozy, warm flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, let the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar come together in sweet harmony. Beat them until they are light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Crack in the eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition. Then, pour in the golden honey and add a splash of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is beautifully combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the cooled brewed coffee. Start and finish with the dry mixture. Stir until they dance together just right. Remember, you’re aiming for a harmonious blend, not an overmixing frenzy.
- Transfer this aromatic concoction to your prepared pan. Pop it into the preheated oven and let the magic happen for about 45–55 minutes. Your cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
- Allow your cake to cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes. Then, with tender care, release it from its baking vessel and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool completely—patience is a virtue.
- If you want to take your honey cake to the next level, whisk together the honey, powdered sugar, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until you have a glossy glaze that’s ready to dazzle.
- Once your cake is cool and composed, drizzle that luscious glaze over the top. Let it cascade down the sides, like a sweet waterfall of honeyed goodness. Take a moment to admire your masterpiece.
- Finally, it’s time to slice into your honey cake and share it with loved ones. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect Rosh Hashanah treat. As you savor each bite, may it bring sweetness, joy, and blessings for the year ahead.
