Certain recipes prove that the simplest pantry staples can make a ritzy dessert. This honey cake relies on the sappy ingredient to enhance its sweet flavors. Creamy yogurt is folded into the batter to give this baked good a moist texture. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare, and then the oven does the rest. Serve it with ripe blueberries or blackberries—you can also spoon crushed pistachios or almonds on top.
Honey Cake Ingredients
- Butter: We mix softened butter into the batter to infuse the honey cake with rich flavors.
- Honey: We use honey to enhance the sweet flavors and aid in browning the cake.
- Eggs: The eggs help this honey cake maintain its shape and rise while baking.
- Yogurt: The yogurt in this recipe contributes to the moist texture of the honey cake.
- Vanilla extract: The vanilla extract enhances the sweet and warm flavors of the honey in this cake.
- All-purpose flour: The all-purpose flour used in this recipe helps the cake maintain its structure during baking.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise and become spongy.
- Toppings: We top this honey cake with fresh fruit and crushed pistachios.
Directions
Step 1: Make the cake batter
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, beat the butter and honey until blended. Then, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the yogurt and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
Step 2: Bake the cake
Grease and flour a 9-inch cast-iron skillet. Transfer the batter to the pan. Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—about 30 to 35 minutes. Then, cool the cake completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Serve the honey cake with fruit, additional honey and chopped pistachios, if desired.
Honey Cake Variations
- Top with whipped cream: Serve this honey cake warm with a dollop of fresh whipped cream. (Here’s a quick recipe for making homemade whipped cream.)
- Add coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut on this moist honey cake to enhance its sweetness.
- Decorate with edible flowers: To add a stunning and floral touch to this honey cake, adorn it with vibrant edible flowers.
How to Store Honey Cake
If you have some slices of honey cake, pack them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for three to seven days.
Can you make this honey cake ahead of time?
This honey cake is the easiest dessert to make ahead of time. Follow the recipe and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for three to seven days. When you’re ready to eat, top it with your garnishes and serve.
Can you freeze this honey cake?
If you have leftover pieces of honey cake, store them in the freezer—without the toppings—so they don’t go to waste. Put them in an airtight container or a freezer-friendly bag. They will last for up to two to three months in the freezer.
Honey Cake Tips
Can I use agave instead of honey?
When making your cake you can substitute agave for honey and still achieve a satisfyingly sweet and moist result. Just follow the recipe as usual, replacing honey with agave. While the flavor may vary slightly, it will still be delicious.
Can I make a vegan version of this honey cake?
If you lean toward plant-based sweets, make a few simple changes to this recipe. Use vegan butter and yogurt. Swap the honey for agave and each egg for 1/4 cup of applesauce. The texture may differ from the original but it’ll still taste moist and rich.
How do I know when the honey cake is finished baking?
First, monitor the cake. Remove it from the oven if it rises and turns golden brown. You can also stick a toothpick into the cake and if it comes out clean without any batter then it’s finished baking.
