Orange Honey Cake with Zesty Orange Jam and Luxurious Cream: A Symphony of Flavors

This Orange Honey Cake marries the richness of honey with the fresh zest of oranges, creating a tantalizing dessert that’s bursting with flavor. Each layer of this cake is crafted with a soft, golden-baked honey dough, complemented by a homemade zesty orange jam and enveloped in a smooth, creamy custard. Topped with a whipped cream and condensed milk frosting, this cake is a feast for the senses, promising a delightful taste with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall in love with this cake for its intricate layers of flavor and texture. The dough’s caramel tones, enhanced by the sweetness of honey and the brightness of fresh orange zest, make each bite deeply satisfying. The orange jam adds a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness, while the creamy custard brings everything together in a velvety smooth embrace. This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience, perfect for those who appreciate the art of baking.

Perfect Occasion

This Orange Honey Cake is perfect for special occasions, from festive celebrations to intimate gatherings. Its elegant appearance and exquisite taste make it ideal for holidays, anniversaries, or as a sophisticated dessert at dinner parties. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a luxurious sweet, this cake stands out as a showstopper.

Decoration Tips

For an elegant finish, decorate the top of the cake with swirls of whipped cream and drizzles of the remaining orange jam. Garnish with thin slices of orange or candied orange peel to enhance the citrus theme. A light dusting of powdered sugar or edible gold flakes can add a touch of glamour, making the cake even more visually appealing.

Ingredients for the Dough:

• 230g sugar
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 eggs
• 120g unsalted butter
• 450g (+30g for dusting) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Zest of 1 orange

For the Orange Jam:

• 1 juicy orange, peeled and blended
• 80g sugar
• 50ml water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• Optional: yellow food coloring or saffron

For the Custard Cream:

• 150g sugar
• 500ml milk
• 4 tbsp flour

Additional Cream Ingredients:

• 250g butter
• 100g condensed milk

For the Whipped Cream Decoration (optional):

• 200ml heavy cream
• 100g condensed milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a thick-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, honey, eggs, and butter. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns caramel in color.
   • Remove from heat, cool slightly, then gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and orange zest to form a soft dough.
   • Divide into 7 equal parts, cover with plastic wrap, and let cool completely.
2. Bake the Layers:
   • Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
   • Roll out each dough part and bake in a lined baking tray for 5-7 minutes until golden. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Orange Jam:
   • Combine blended orange, sugar, water, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat until thickened, stirring constantly. Add coloring if desired.
4. Prepare the Custard Cream:
   • Mix sugar, milk, and flour. Cook over low heat until thick. Cool completely.
5. Combine Creams:
   • Whip butter with condensed milk until fluffy. Gradually add the cooled custard, then fold in the orange jam.
6. Assemble the Cake:
   • Layer the cake with custard cream between each sheet of dough.
   • If using, whip the heavy cream with condensed milk and use for decorating.
7. Chill:
   • Allow the cake to set overnight in the refrigerator for flavors to meld.

Enjoy this luxurious Orange Honey Cake as a delightful centerpiece for your next special occasion!