Description
This classic Honey Cake is a moist and tender dessert that combines the natural sweetness of honey with a delicate crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is easy to prepare and features a subtle almond aroma complemented by a smooth, creamy texture thanks to sour cream. Serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 cup honey
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp. almond extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For Preparation
- Cooking spray
- Powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking soda until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Honey: In another large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter and honey together until the butter becomes smooth and the mixture looks light and creamy, creating a fluffy base for the cake batter.
- Add Eggs and Almond Extract: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and honey mixture, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth blend. Then add the almond extract and mix well.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating just until they are barely combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
- Add Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream gently with the mixer until the batter is just combined, which helps keep the cake moist and tender.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Serve the cake as is or sprinkle generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming with the honey.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain a light texture.
- If powdered sugar is unavailable, a light drizzle of honey or a dusting of cinnamon can be used as an alternative topping.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg