Description
With a perfect blend of zesty orange, warm ginger, and sweet honey, these Zesty Orange Ginger Honey Mini Cakes with Warm Spice Glaze are delightful individual cakes that brighten your dessert table. These beginner-friendly mini cakes combine bright citrus notes with the comforting warmth of ginger and a sweet honey glaze, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 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
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well to prevent sticking.
- 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 aside.
- Cream butter and sweeteners: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, honey, and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates a smooth texture for the batter.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully combine. Then mix in the fresh orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with tangy citrus and rich flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the plain yogurt—start and finish with dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the cakes tender.
- Fill muffin cups: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising while baking.
- Bake the cakes: Bake the mini cakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
- 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 well combined and smooth.
- Cool the cakes: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly in the pan for about 5 minutes to firm up for easier handling.
- Glaze the cakes: Carefully transfer the warm cakes to a wire rack. Immediately brush the tops generously with the warm spice glaze so the glaze soaks in and adds a glossy, flavorful finish.
- Serve: Let the cakes cool completely before serving to fully set the glaze and enhance the flavor experience.
Notes
- These cakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days while maintaining their moisture and flavor.
- For an extra orange flavor boost, add a few drops of orange extract to the glaze before warming.
- If you prefer lemon, substitute lemon juice and lemon zest for the orange components to create a citrusy lemon-flavored cake variation.
- Garnish with slices of candied ginger or strips of orange peel for an elegant, decorative touch that pairs wonderfully with the flavors.
- The combination of ginger and orange delivers a warm and refreshing balance, making these cakes suitable for any season.