Orange Honey Cake Recipe

Name: Orange Honey Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup white sugar; 1 cup honey; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 4 eggs; 2 teaspoons grated orange zest; 1 cup orange juice; 2.5 cups all-purpose flour; 3 teaspoons baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed with its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

1 cup white sugar
1 cup honey
cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons grated orange zest (or more to taste)
1 cup orange juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
teaspoon baking soda
teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch pan.
Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine sugar, honey, oil, eggs, and orange zest. Mix until smooth.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice. Stir until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Serving Size: 1 slice (12 servings per recipe)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	360
Total Fat	11g	14%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	62mg	21%
Sodium	265mg	12%
Total Carbohydrate	63g	23%
Dietary Fiber	1g	3%
Total Sugars	42g
Protein	5g	10%
Vitamin C	11mg	12%
Calcium	69mg	5%
Iron	2mg	10%
Potassium	108mg	2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin of Orange Honey Cake: The Orange Honey Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the fresh zing of oranges. While the cake's precise origins remain unclear, it can be linked to the traditions of honey cakes, which have been an essential part of various cultures, particularly in the Middle East and Europe. Honey cakes are often associated with celebrations and special occasions. The addition of orange zest and juice adds a distinctly citrus twist, making it a modern take on an ancient classic. It is particularly popular during holidays like Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, where honey symbolizes sweetness and the hope for a sweet year ahead.

Regional Variations and Special Features

The cakes simple yet rich flavor profile makes it a versatile treat enjoyed across various regions. In the Mediterranean, honey cakes are quite popular, especially in Greek and Turkish cuisines, where honey is a staple ingredient. The use of orange juice and zest in this particular recipe, however, is a regional touch influenced by the availability of citrus fruits in temperate climates. In the United States, this cake is often baked as a family favorite, and its moist, dense texture makes it an excellent choice for coffee tables or tea gatherings. In some versions, the cake is also topped with a glaze made from honey and orange juice, further enhancing the citrusy sweetness of the dessert.

How It Differs From Other Cakes

While many cakes are made with sugar as the primary sweetener, the Orange Honey Cake sets itself apart by using honey, which imparts a unique flavor and moistness to the cake. This distinction makes it more than just a typical sponge or butter cake. The honey provides both sweetness and a rich depth of flavor that is absent in cakes made solely with sugar. Additionally, the cakes use of fresh orange juice and zest distinguishes it from other honey cakes, which may rely solely on the sweetness of honey and spices. The combination of honey and citrus gives this cake a balanced sweetness that is not overly cloying, but refreshingly light.

Where Is Orange Honey Cake Typically Served?

The Orange Honey Cake is often served as a celebratory dish, especially during festive occasions. It is a traditional dessert for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, where it symbolizes the hope for a sweet year ahead. Outside of religious observances, it is commonly enjoyed as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. In Mediterranean countries, it is often paired with fresh fruit, nuts, or yogurt for a more indulgent treat. The cake can also be presented at family gatherings, birthdays, and casual get-togethers. Its the type of dessert thats easy to bake in advance, making it perfect for parties or potlucks.

Interesting Facts About Orange Honey Cake

1. Honeys Symbolism: Honey has long been considered a symbol of sweetness and prosperity. In many cultures, honey cakes are a traditional food for welcoming the new year and are believed to bring good fortune. 2. Orange Juice for Moisture: The use of orange juice in this cake recipe not only provides flavor but also helps keep the cake moist. The acidity in the juice balances the sweetness of the honey, creating a harmonious taste. 3. Historical Roots: The tradition of baking cakes with honey dates back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all had variations of honey cakes that were prepared for special occasions like weddings and religious ceremonies. 4. Customizable Recipe: One of the great things about the Orange Honey Cake is how adaptable it is. The recipe can be adjusted by adding other fruits, nuts, or spices to suit personal tastes or regional variations. Some variations even include a honey glaze or cream cheese frosting to make the cake more indulgent.

Conclusion

The Orange Honey Cake is a perfect example of how a simple combination of ingredients can create a beloved dessert that stands the test of time. Its rich history, regional variations, and unique flavor make it a timeless favorite. Whether served at a holiday feast or as an everyday treat, this cake brings together the natural sweetness of honey and the zesty flavor of oranges, creating a dessert that is both comforting and refreshing.

FAQ about Orange Honey Cake Recipe

Store the Orange Honey Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Yes, you can substitute ingredients depending on what you have available. For example, you can use applesauce instead of oil for a lower fat version, or you can replace orange juice with lemon juice or other fruit juices. If you're not a fan of honey, you could try maple syrup or agave as a sweetener. Be mindful that substitutions might slightly change the flavor or texture of the cake.

Yes, you can use a different pan size, but keep in mind that the baking time may change. For example, if you use a smaller pan, the cake will bake faster, while a larger pan might require additional baking time. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, it's ready.

Yes, you can definitely add a glaze or frosting to enhance the flavor. A simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice would complement the cake beautifully. Alternatively, you could use whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or even a honey glaze for extra sweetness.

There are a few possible reasons why the cake might turn out dry. It could be due to overbaking, using too much flour, or not incorporating enough moisture. Be sure to follow the recipe's recommended baking time, and avoid overmixing the batter. You could also try adding a bit more liquid, such as orange juice or a splash of milk, to the batter.

Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors tend to improve after a day or two. You can bake the cake and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. If you want to prepare it even further in advance, you can freeze the cake and thaw it before serving.

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can dress it up with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of yogurt also pairs well with the flavors of this cake.

The cake contains eggs and honey, so it is not suitable for vegans or those with egg allergies. However, you could make modifications, such as using flaxseed as an egg substitute and replacing honey with a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave. If you're looking to make it gluten-free, you could try using a gluten-free flour blend, though this may alter the texture of the cake.

Comments

Michelle Gonzalez

09/22/2024 05:49:33 AM

This dish was fantastic! It was incredibly simple to prepare, and I managed to reduce the fat content by substituting half of the oil with applesauce and using only egg whites. Despite these adjustments, the final result was still outstanding!

Tyler Hill

05/01/2025 02:05:21 AM

I had an excess of oranges to use up, so I searched for a recipe to utilize a couple of them. Wanting a smaller cake, I halved the recipe and baked it in an 8" square pan. Using freshly squeezed orange juice and zest from one orange, I decided to add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans for extra flavor. The cake turned out well after baking for about 35 minutes, but due to my impatience, the middle sank slightly. To remedy this, I made an orange glaze with butter, sugar, and OJ, which added a delightful finishing touch. The cake was a hit at our table, disappearing quickly after serving. My wife particularly enjoyed the use of honey as a sweetener, and my sons praised the dish. While it leans towards a coffee cake style, it boasts a fantastic moist and fluffy texture.

Katherine King

05/11/2023 03:47:50 PM

I have been using this recipe every year for the past 6 years for Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year), and it has never failed me. I typically bake it in a loaf pan, but have also experimented with mini loaf pans, individual portions, silicone molds, and more, and it always turns out great. I like to make a few modifications, such as using melted butter instead of vegetable oil, and switching up the citrus juices like tangerine, lemon, cran-apple, or a combination. I also enjoy using both lemon and vanilla extracts. While I usually skip the zest in favor of lemon extract out of laziness, I'm planning to use lemon zest this year for an extra zing. This recipe is truly excellent! I am usually not a fan of commercially-made honey cakes due to their dryness and lackluster flavor, but this homemade version is a game-changer. I willingly indulge in this cake, and even my mom, a honey cake enthusiast, stopped buying store-bought versions once she tried mine. The fact that this cake disappears quickly in our house is a testament to how delicious it is. Thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe!

Margaret Smith

02/26/2025 11:48:20 PM

Review revised: I enhanced the flavor of the cake by adding 1/2 tsp of Fiori Di Sicilia, a delightful citrus vanilla flavor, and decided to skip the cinnamon. I opted for fresh squeezed orange juice and zest, which gave the cake a vibrant taste. The cake turned out perfectly after baking for 20 minutes at 350F, achieving a lovely even browning and rise. To continue the baking process, I lowered the temperature to 325F, covered it with foil, and baked it for another 20 minutes. I wish I had been more careful when tenting the foil, as a small part of the top of the cake was removed. After letting the cake rest for 24 hours, I found it to be wonderfully moist with a distinct honey flavor. One could enhance it further with a honey glaze or serve it with whipped cream and berries for a truly special dessert. This recipe is definitely a keeper!

Elizabeth Green

12/29/2024 04:11:04 AM

Delightful flavor! Despite temperature worries from other reviews, I closely monitored the baking process and the result was fantastic. I was able to make both a 7" round and a 10" round cake from a single recipe. The smaller cake was ready in just 45 minutes at 340 degrees. I opted for fresh orange juice and zest, adding a vibrant twist to the taste.

Raymond Nelson

02/19/2025 03:50:18 AM

Next time, I would recommend using only 1/2 cup of white sugar as the current sweetness level is quite high. Additionally, I suggest using just 1 teaspoon of orange zest to achieve a more subtle flavor. Nevertheless, the recipe turned out very moist. I paired it with a delicious dulce de leche whipped cream filling.

Karen Diaz

03/01/2023 12:30:28 PM

I absolutely adored this delightful cake. It was plain, simple, and had amazing flavor. I decided to make half of the recipe and baked it in an 8" pan, then lightly sprinkled cinnamon sugar on top once it was done.

Scott Torres

11/08/2022 08:14:34 AM

Delicious cake! I baked it in a medium-sized ceramic Bundt pan and it took the full 50 minutes. The texture is soft and moist. I believe it's perfect as is without any glaze.

Michael Robinson

10/19/2022 01:59:21 AM

It worked well for Beltane, but it fell apart when we attempted to remove it from the pan.

David Taylor

06/05/2023 06:54:42 AM

My cake turned out slightly dry, but the frosting I added on top saved the day. I might have baked it for too long or mixed the batter too much.

Jose Martinez

12/18/2022 01:46:38 AM

I enhanced the cake with a delicious honey glaze, which added moisture and sweetness to it. A fantastic way to elevate a slightly dry cake!

John Rivera

09/25/2024 03:15:27 AM

I didn't have orange juice or zest, so I substituted a bit of nutmeg and milk in the recipe. I'm considering sprinkling ground walnuts on the frosting, but I haven't decided yet.

Angela Collins

08/06/2024 05:03:37 PM

Delicious moist cake with a delightful combination of sweet cinnamon and orange flavors. I paired it with fresh blueberries and whipped cream, creating a perfect balance of taste and textures. The leftovers made a scrumptious breakfast treat the next day.

Patricia Thompson

07/14/2024 03:45:42 AM

Moist and flavorful! I baked it in a Bundt pan and drizzled it with an orange glaze for extra zing.

Helen Diaz

07/02/2023 07:56:23 PM

This tea cake is absolutely delightful and light. It requires minimal preparation time, and I can envision adding some icing to elevate it for special occasions. I will certainly be making it again!

audio version

Cook Time: 30 minutes