Print

Orange Ginger Honey Cakes

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 23 reviews

Orange Ginger Honey Cakes combine the zesty brightness of fresh orange, the warm spice of ground ginger, and the natural sweetness of honey to create a delightful, moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These beginner-friendly cakes are tender and flavorful, finished with a luscious honey-orange-ginger glaze that enhances every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt

Glaze Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger until evenly combined. Set this aside for later.
  3. Cream Butter and Sweeteners: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, honey, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender crumb in the cakes.
  4. Add Eggs and Flavoring: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating thoroughly after each addition. Then mix in the fresh orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with citrusy aroma.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the plain yogurt. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid toughening the batter.
  6. Fill Muffin Cups: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising during baking.
  7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
  8. Prepare the Glaze: While the cakes bake, combine honey, fresh orange juice, and grated fresh ginger in a small saucepan. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until the glaze ingredients are fully blended and warmed through.
  9. Cool Slightly and Glaze: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack. While the cakes are still warm, brush the tops generously with the prepared honey-orange-ginger glaze for a flavorful finish.
  10. Cool Completely and Serve: Allow the cakes to cool completely on the wire rack before serving to let the glaze set and flavors meld.

Notes

  • These cakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • For an extra orange punch, add a few drops of orange extract to the glaze.
  • If you prefer lemon flavor, substitute the orange juice and zest with lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
  • Consider garnishing with candied ginger slices or thin orange peel strips to add an elegant touch when serving.
  • The ginger and orange combination creates a warm, refreshing balance that suits all seasons.