Congolese Spiced Honey Cake

Ingredients

The Congolese Spiced Honey Cake is an adaptation of the traditional Dutch Groninger koek. While the original recipe uses ingredients like rye flour and aniseed, the Congolese version incorporates local flavors and spices to create a unique twist. The Congolese Spiced Honey Cake replaces rye flour with all-purpose flour and adds a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a more vibrant taste. Additionally, the use of honey instead of sugar enhances the sweetness and adds a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Groninger koek, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, honey, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top.
6. 6.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
8. 8.
   Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Honey — Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. If the honey is too thick, warm it slightly before adding it to the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter.
• Serve the cake warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Slice the Congolese Spiced Honey Cake into generous portions and serve it as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Dust the top of the cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish it with a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.