Why Make This Recipe
Honey tea cake is a delightful and comforting treat that brings warmth to any occasion. Its sweet honey flavor combined with a soft and moist texture makes it a perfect snack for tea time or a lovely dessert after dinner. It’s easy to make, using simple ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this cake can brighten anyone’s day.
How to Make Honey Tea Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 large egg yolks (at room temperature)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 1 stick & 3 tbsp butter (at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup honey (warmed up and diluted with 2 tbsp hot water)
Directions:
- First, start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour an 8.5×4.5 inch baking pan and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks, egg, heavy cream, and vanilla together.
- In a stand mixer bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add in the sugar and mix until incorporated (about 20 seconds).
- Add in the softened butter and half of the egg mixture. Beat on medium low until smooth (about 3 minutes).
- Increase the speed to medium high and beat for another 3 minutes to achieve a thick and airy cake batter.
- Lower the speed again. Add the remainder of the egg mixture and gently mix until combined (about 2 minutes).
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35-45 minutes. The cake is ready when it no longer jiggles in the center, has a golden brown top, and a knife or wooden skewer comes out clean when inserted in the center.
- Five minutes before pulling out your tea cake loaf, prepare the honey syrup. Mix the honey with the hot water in a small measuring cup or bowl until smooth.
- Brush the top of the loaf with the honey syrup immediately after pulling it out. You can also drizzle it on top if you don’t have a brush.
- Let the loaf cool for 20 minutes. Use a spatula around the edges to pull it out and let it cool on a wire rack for another 20 minutes. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How to Serve Honey Tea Cake
Honey tea cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra sweetness. Pairing it with a warm cup of tea or coffee makes for a cozy afternoon snack. Garnish with a drizzle of honey for an attractive presentation.
How to Store Honey Tea Cake
To keep your honey tea cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer. You can thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Tips to Make Honey Tea Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for an even batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the egg mixture; mix just until incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Carefully check the cake for doneness before the timer goes off, as oven temperatures can vary.
Variation
Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruit into the batter for added texture and flavor. You could also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor.
2. What can I do if my cake is too dry?
Make sure to not overbake the cake. If it does turn out dry, serve it with a syrup or whip cream to add moisture.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure to check the blend is appropriate for baking.
