Description
Moist, fragrant, and lightly spiced, these Orange Ginger Honey Cakes are a delightful treat that bring warmth and brightness to your table. Infused with zesty orange, sweet honey, and a touch of ginger, each bite is tender and comforting—perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something cozy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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Ingredients
For the Cakes:
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp ground ginger
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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⅔ cup honey
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⅓ cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
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2 large eggs
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Zest of 1 orange
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½ cup fresh orange juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
For the Honey Orange Glaze:
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¼ cup honey
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2 tbsp fresh orange juice
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1 tsp orange zest
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger
Optional Garnish:
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Thin orange slices or candied orange peel
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A dusting of powdered sugar
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Chopped crystallized ginger
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners. You can also use mini bundt molds or ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients
4. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, honey, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
7. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two additions, alternating with the Greek yogurt.
8. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
9. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin tin or cake molds, filling about ¾ full.
10. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Let the cakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
12. While the cakes are cooling, combine honey, orange juice, orange zest, and fresh ginger in a small saucepan.
13. Warm over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze is slightly thickened.
14. Remove from heat and let it cool for a minute or two.
Step 7: Glaze and Garnish
15. Spoon or brush the warm glaze over the cooled cakes.
16. Garnish with orange slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or chopped crystallized ginger if desired.
Notes
Use Fresh Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed juice gives a brighter, more natural flavor than bottled.
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until the flour disappears to keep the cakes soft and fluffy.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps everything blend smoothly for a consistent texture.
Glaze While Warm – Applying the glaze while the cakes are still slightly warm helps it soak in beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American