Jordanian-inspired Spiced Honey Cake

Ingredients

In this Jordanian-inspired version, we incorporate za'atar, a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend, to infuse the cake with a savory and earthy flavor. Additionally, we use a honey glaze to enhance the sweetness of the cake and give it a glossy finish. We alse have the original recipe for Baumkuchen, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) honey, plus extra for glazing 1 cup (240ml) honey, plus extra for glazing
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon za'atar 1 teaspoon za'atar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 61g, 42g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a ring-shaped cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and za'atar.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until well combined.
6. 6.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
7. 7.
   Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
9. 9.
   Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, drizzle the cake with honey for a glossy finish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Honey — Use high-quality honey for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Za'atar — If za'atar is not readily available, you can make your own blend by combining dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and a pinch of salt.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a more pronounced za'atar flavor, sprinkle some additional za'atar on top of the cake before baking.
• Serve the cake warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some crushed pistachios or almonds on top of the honey glaze.

Serving advice

Serve the Jordanian-inspired Spiced Honey Cake as a dessert or a sweet treat with a cup of aromatic Arabic coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Present the cake on a decorative cake stand, allowing the beautiful ring shape and glossy honey glaze to take center stage. Garnish with fresh edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.