Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into a burst of sunshine with this moist, flavorful orange ginger honey cake! This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner bakers, and the result is a deliciously comforting treat perfect for any tea party or family gathering. Get ready to impress everyone with this simple yet spectacular cake!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it expertly balances the bright citrus notes of orange with the warm spice of ginger and the rich sweetness of honey. The result is a cake that’s wonderfully moist, not overly sweet, and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect balance of comforting and sophisticated – a true crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients
🍊 2 large oranges, zested and juiced
🍯 1 cup honey
🥚 3 large eggs
🥛 1 cup milk
🧈 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
🌾 2 cups all-purpose flour
🥄 1 teaspoon baking soda
🥄 1 teaspoon ground ginger
🍂 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
🧂 ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and honey until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer!
3️⃣ Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange zest and juice.
4️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
5️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
6️⃣ Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
7️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
8️⃣ Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9️⃣ Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Handy Tips
- Use fresh oranges for the best flavor!
- If your honey is thick, gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to make it easier to work with.
- Don’t overmix the batter, or your cake will be tough.
Heat Control
Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking and prevents the cake from burning. If your oven runs hot, consider reducing the temperature slightly and checking for doneness a few minutes early.
Crunch Factor
This cake is delightfully moist and tender, not crunchy. The focus is on soft, flavorful texture.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality honey like clover or wildflower.
- Add ½ cup of chopped candied ginger for an extra burst of ginger flavor and a fun textural element.
- To make this cake even moister, brush the cooled cake with a simple orange glaze (powdered sugar mixed with orange juice).
Storage Tips
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This cake makes a wonderful gift! Slice it into squares, wrap each individually in cellophane, and tie with a ribbon. A simple handwritten card adds a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Lemon Ginger: Replace the orange zest and juice with lemon zest and juice.
🌟 Spiced Apple: Add 1 cup of chopped apples and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg to the batter.
🌟 Chocolate Orange: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter.
🌟 Cranberry Orange: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries for a festive twist.
Troubleshooting
- Cake is dry: You may have overbaked it. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
- Cake is dense: You may have overmixed the batter.
- Cake stuck to the pan: Make sure to grease and flour the pan well.
FAQ
- Can I use a different size pan? Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time.
- Can I freeze this cake? Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, it tastes even better the next day!
- What kind of milk should I use? Whole milk makes the cake the most moist, but you can use any kind of milk you like.
Conclusion
This Moist Orange Ginger Honey Cake is a real winner! Its simple ingredients combine to create a truly delightful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy baking and sharing this recipe with your loved ones as much as we do. Happy baking!