This Orange Cake with Honey and Coconut is a delightful, moist dessert that brings the tropical flavors of orange and coconut together beautifully. Sweetened naturally with honey and infused with fresh orange juice, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to special celebrations. Let’s get started on this refreshing and flavorful treat!
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or coconut flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- ½ cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar (or a keto-friendly sweetener)
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Additional shredded coconut for topping
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
- Cream Butter and Honey: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and honey together until creamy and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool the Cake
- Cool in Pan: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze (optional)
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and enough orange juice to reach your desired consistency.
- Drizzle on Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and sprinkle with additional shredded coconut.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into slices and serve. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Nuts: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped walnuts or almonds.
- Coconut Milk: For an even richer flavor, replace some of the butter with coconut milk or oil.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Final Thoughts:
This Orange Cake with Honey and Coconut is a delightful treat that offers a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on your own, this cake is sure to impress with its light texture and tropical taste. Enjoy!