Traditional Greek Honey Cake with Walnuts

Name: Traditional Greek Honey Cake with Walnuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup whole milk (room temperature); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toasted); 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

60 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in a moist, fragrant Greek honey cake topped with walnuts. A perfect blend of sweetness and spice.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Greek honey cake, known as 'Melopita,' is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavours of honey, cinnamon, and walnuts. It’s a staple in Greek households, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. This version of the Greek honey cake is moist and fragrant, with a tender crumb that absorbs the sweet honey syrup beautifully. The addition of cinnamon and cloves gives it a warm, inviting aroma, making it a perfect treat for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking to explore traditional Greek desserts or simply want to try something new, this honey cake is sure to impress with its simplicity and delightful taste.

Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper at the bottom for easy removal.

Combine dry ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

Pro tip: Sifting the flour mixture can help achieve a lighter cake.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure butter is at room temperature for best results.

Add wet ingredients

Beat in the honey followed by the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Mix in the milk.

Pro tip: Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Combine and fold

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the toasted walnuts.

Pro tip: Overmixing can result in a tough cake, so mix just until combined.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

Prepare honey syrup

While the cake is baking, combine honey, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Drizzle with syrup

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle the warm syrup evenly over the cake.

Pro tip: The cake should be warm, not hot, when applying the syrup to ensure absorption.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality honey for the best flavour.
Ensure the cake is completely cooled before drizzling with syrup.
Toast the walnuts for added depth of flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek honey cake?

Greek honey cake, or Melopita, is a traditional dessert made with honey, spices, and often topped with nuts like walnuts.

How many calories are in Greek honey cake?

A serving of Greek honey cake has approximately 350 calories.

Can I make Greek honey cake ahead of time?

Yes, Greek honey cake can be made a day ahead. Store it at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week.

What type of honey is best for Greek honey cake?

Use a high-quality, floral honey for the best flavour in your Greek honey cake.

How do I store Greek honey cake?

Store the cake wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze Greek honey cake?

Yes, you can freeze Greek honey cake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Greek honey cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the sweet, spiced cake. To store, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze for up to a month.