German Dessert > Cake > German Cakes

Almond-Topped Berner Honiglebkuchen Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
- 1 cup sliced almonds

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until combined.
5. Add the honey, brandy, orange juice, and orange zest and mix until combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with the sliced almonds.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 300
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: margarine or coconut oil
- Granulated sugar: brown sugar or coconut sugar
- Honey: maple syrup or agave nectar
- Brandy: rum or whiskey
- Orange juice: lemon juice or lime juice

Variations:
- Add 1 cup of dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or cherries) to the batter.
- Substitute the almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for a spicier flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cake on a platter with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest.

Garnishes:
- Orange zest
- Whipped cream
- Sliced almonds

Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Hot tea

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is overbaked, it will be dry. To prevent this, check the cake after 25 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- Wash hands and all utensils with warm, soapy water before and after handling the ingredients.

Food History:
Berner Honiglebkuchen is a traditional Swiss honey cake that dates back to the 16th century. It is believed to have originated in the city of Bern and is still popular today.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a sweet and spicy flavor with hints of orange and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a special treat.

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Region: German

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spiced, Fragrant, Honeyed