For delightful baked goods that embody the essence of Austrian Christmas traditions, look no further than the charming Honigkuchen, also known as Honey Cake. This timeless recipe is a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any festive gathering. Combining the richness of honey with aromatic spices, this cake is a beloved favorite for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere during the holiday season.
**Honigkuchen Honey Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup butter
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– Zest of 1 lemon
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and butter. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is well combined and the sugar is dissolved. Do not let it boil. Once done, allow it to cool slightly.
2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and lemon zest.
4. In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Slowly add the eggs to the honey mixture, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually pour the honey mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined and a thick batter forms.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, slice the Honigkuchen into squares or rectangles. Dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch before serving.
Indulge in the cozy flavors of this Honigkuchen Honey Cake, a delightful treat that is sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday baking traditions. The rich sweetness of honey combined with a blend of traditional spices creates a cake that is both comforting and delicious, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season. Prepare a batch of this delightful cake and savor every bite as you embrace the warmth and joy of the holidays.
