There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the smell of honey cake wafting through the house. For me, it immediately brings back images of autumn gatherings, the rustle of golden leaves outside the window, and the warm embrace of family traditions. Honey cake, with its deeply spiced aroma and velvety crumb, is more than just dessert—it’s a piece of history on a plate.

This easy honey cake recipe has roots that stretch far back into time. In Jewish tradition, it’s lovingly baked and shared during Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, to symbolize the hope for a sweet year ahead. But even beyond cultural celebrations, this cake has become a cherished comfort food around the world. Whether served for a holiday, a tea-time treat, or just a cozy weekend bake, it speaks a universal language of warmth and comfort.

What I love about this recipe is that it’s simple enough for beginner bakers, yet sophisticated in flavor thanks to the honey, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Whether you’re making it to carry on a family tradition or just craving something a little sweet and spicy, this cake is always a good idea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally Sweet and Moist: The honey gives this cake its signature sweetness and soft texture.
• Perfectly Spiced: Just enough cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to make every bite warm and fragrant.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Honey cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors settle.
• No Mixer Needed: A simple recipe that comes together with a bowl and a whisk.
• Versatile: Dress it up with powdered sugar, glaze, or extra honey—or keep it beautifully plain.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

HOW TO MAKE EASY HONEY CAKE:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round or loaf cake pan and line it with parchment paper to help with easy removal later. This small step makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Stir until the mixture looks evenly speckled with spices. The warm scent of cinnamon and cloves always makes me smile—it smells like fall in a bowl.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until smooth. Then add the honey, vegetable oil, coffee (or orange juice), and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is uniform and golden. I like using coffee for a deep, robust flavor, but orange juice adds a fresh twist if you prefer something brighter.

4. Combine the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix here—a few lumps are okay. The batter will be thick and glossy.

5. Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and pop it into the oven. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes—spiced, sweet, and comforting.

6. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra honey for a glossy, sticky finish.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Use a mild or medium honey: Stronger honeys can overpower the spices. Clover or wildflower honey works beautifully.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Honey makes cakes sticky, and parchment ensures easy removal.
• Give it time: This honey cake is even better the next day. Wrap it well and let the flavors deepen overnight.
• Add-ins welcome: Chopped walnuts, raisins, or even dried cranberries add texture and variety.
• Check early: Start checking your cake around the 40-minute mark. Every oven is a bit different.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 1 round or loaf cake (8–10 servings)
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: European, Jewish-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

This honey cake is ideal for making ahead and traveling well—great for potlucks or family dinners. It freezes beautifully too. If you’re making it for a special event, consider adding a honey glaze with lemon zest for an elegant touch.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

(Estimated per serving)

• Calories: ~290
• Carbs: 45g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 11g
• Sugar: 30g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 180mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Honey Cake Recipe
A delicious honey cake is known for its moist texture and deep, warm flavor from honey and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a classic dessert often enjoyed during holidays or special occasions. Many recipes use simple pantry staples and come together easily. For a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, try the version from She Loves Biscotti, which is perfectly spiced and incredibly tender. Great with tea or coffee and even better the next day.

Russian Honey Cake
Russian Honey Cake, or Medovik, is a multi-layered dessert made with honey-based cake layers and a luscious sour cream or whipped cream filling. Each layer is baked thin and then stacked to create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture as it rests. It’s a labor of love, perfect for birthdays or holidays. Smitten Kitchen’s recipe offers a step-by-step guide that’s beginner-friendly yet delivers bakery-quality results with stunning presentation.

European Honey Cake
European honey cakes come in many styles, from the layered Medovik in Eastern Europe to spice-infused versions in Central Europe. These cakes often feature a balance of sweetness and tang, using fillings like sour cream or fruit preserves. They’re a reflection of local traditions and ingredients. For a delicious take on this classic, Vikalinka shares a family recipe that’s rich in flavor, beautifully layered, and perfect for making ahead.

Rachlmansfield Honey Cake
Rachlmansfield’s honey cake is a wholesome, gluten-free version of the traditional favorite. Made with almond flour, olive oil, and coconut sugar, it’s naturally sweetened and dairy-free, yet stays incredibly moist and flavorful. Ideal for clean eating or those with dietary restrictions, it still captures the comforting essence of honey cake. Great for holidays, brunches, or everyday treats, it’s simple to prepare and crowd-approved by kids and adults alike.

Vegan Honey Cake
Vegan honey cake replaces traditional honey with plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup or agave and uses ingredients like almond milk and flaxseed for moisture and structure. The result is a soft, aromatic cake perfect for vegan diets or anyone looking to reduce animal products. The Vegan Atlas provides a delightful recipe that’s perfect for Rosh Hashanah or everyday indulgence—fragrant with warm spices and finished with a subtle, sweet glaze.

Spiced Honey Cake
Spiced honey cake is a warmly flavored dessert that combines the sweetness of honey with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. It’s incredibly moist and fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma while baking. Often served during fall and winter holidays, this cake pairs well with tea or a dollop of whipped cream. Try Sinfully Spicy’s version for an easy yet impressive recipe with a rich, deep flavor and soft crumb.

Honey Cake Smitten Kitchen
The Smitten Kitchen’s “Majestic and Moist Honey Cake” is a well-loved recipe that’s become a favorite for Rosh Hashanah and beyond. It uses oil instead of butter for a soft, tender crumb and includes coffee, orange juice, and a generous helping of honey for depth. This cake improves in flavor over time, making it perfect to bake a day ahead. Easy to make and freezer-friendly, it’s ideal for both beginners and pros.

Honey and Olive Oil Cake
Honey and olive oil cake offers a beautiful balance of floral sweetness and rich, fruity olive oil. It’s tender, moist, and subtly complex—perfect for those who enjoy less sugary desserts. Often paired with citrus or herbs, it makes a stunning table centerpiece that’s simple to bake. Fare Isle’s version is vegan and uses minimal ingredients, resulting in a naturally delicious cake that’s elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for everyday baking.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

• Room Temperature: Store tightly wrapped for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: For up to 7 days, though texture may firm up slightly.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this honey cake, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy bakes:

• A Slice of Sunshine: Flourless Orange, Pistachio, and Almond Cake
• Carrot Cake Banana Bread
• Fig, Almond, and Date Cake
• Jamie Oliver Apple Pie Cake

CONCLUSION:

Honey cake is one of those rare desserts that feels timeless. It’s easy to make, rich with history, and full of comforting flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and spiced, this easy honey cake recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Print