If you’re looking for a cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Orange Ginger Cake is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a moist, tender crumb that’s beautifully spiced with fresh and ground ginger, a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, all brightened up with vibrant orange juice and zest. This cake is naturally sweetened with raw honey, making it a bit lighter and more wholesome than your usual sugary desserts. Whether you want a cozy afternoon treat or a unique dessert to impress friends, this cake delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake combines fresh, zesty citrus with the warm, soothing spice of ginger in a way that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The raw honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the orange’s brightness. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make — no fancy techniques, just simple ingredients coming together for a beautiful result. The optional honey-orange glaze takes it to another level with a glossy, fragrant finish. It’s great for any season, especially when you want something cozy but not overly heavy.
Ingredients
Tip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Dry Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon ground ginger
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¾ cup raw honey
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2 large eggs
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1 cup fresh orange juice
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Zest of 2 oranges
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1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
Optional Glaze:
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2 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan to prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, raw honey, and eggs. Mix well until smooth.
Stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and freshly grated ginger, blending the flavors together.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle and avoid overmixing; just combine until the batter is smooth and uniform.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
For an extra burst of flavor, while the cake is still warm, brush the top with the optional honey-orange glaze. This will add a beautiful shine and enhance the citrus notes.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
Try swapping raw honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweet note. For a nuttier twist, fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans before baking. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients for extra warmth. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Heating and Storage
Store this cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully—wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven if you like it warm.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
Fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
Is the cake very sweet?
No, it’s naturally sweetened with honey and balanced by the tartness of the orange juice.
Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh ginger adds a brighter, fresher zing. If using ground ginger, reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon.
What pan size should I use?
A 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8×8-inch square pan works well.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter substitute.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Avoid overbaking and store it in an airtight container once cooled.
What’s the best way to grate fresh ginger?
Use a microplane grater or the fine side of a box grater for the freshest flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pans.
How long does the glaze keep?
Brush it fresh on warm cake, but you can store any leftover glaze in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I add other spices?
Definitely! Try cardamom or cloves for a more complex spice profile.
Print
Moist and Spiced Orange Ginger Cake You’ll Absolutely Love
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful Orange Ginger Cake blends fresh citrus with warming spices and natural sweetness from raw honey. Easy to bake and topped with a honey-orange glaze, it’s perfect for dessert or tea time.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground ginger
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
Pinch of salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup raw honey
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh orange juice
Zest of 2 oranges
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
Optional glaze: 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp orange juice
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease pan.
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Whisk flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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In another bowl, mix melted butter, honey, and eggs.
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Stir in orange juice, zest, and grated ginger.
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Fold dry ingredients into wet until combined.
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Pour batter into pan and bake 40-45 minutes.
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Optional: brush warm cake with honey-orange glaze.
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Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to rack.
Notes
- Use fresh orange juice for best flavor.
- Avoid overmixing batter.
- Store covered at room temp up to 3 days or freeze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert, cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
