Ingredients
Biscuit
Cream
Cranberry Coulis
Instructions
Step 1
In a saucepan, combine cranberries and sugar. Heat on medium flame until the berries start to soften. Mix the cornstarch with water, then *gradually add* this mixture to the cranberries.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the coulis thickens. Once ready, cover with cling film and let cool to room temperature.
Step 2
In a saucepan, combine butter and honey. Heat over low flame until the mixture *just begins to bubble*. Remove from heat and mix in baking soda, stirring until the mixture turns golden.
Allow the honey mixture to cool to a warm temperature. Beat the eggs with sugar and a pinch of salt until fluffy. Sift in flour and baking powder, folding gently with a spatula. Add the cooled honey mixture and mix on low speed until combined.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour the batter on the tray, spreading it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until a toothpick inserted comes out dry. Once baked, let the biscuit cool completely, then cut it into base and cubes.
Step 3
In a bowl, combine sour cream, powdered sugar, and orange zest. Beat on high speed until the mixture thickens and increases in volume.
Step 4
Assemble the cake as demonstrated in a video, layering in a large salad bowl lined with cling film. Start with the base, then add cream and cranberry coulis layers, followed by biscuit cubes.
Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours, ideally overnight, allowing it to set properly.
Servings
When it comes to serving the **Honey Cranberry Cake**, it’s all about the presentation and the accompaniments. 🍰 **Arrange** the cake slices on a beautiful cake stand or plate and garnish with freshly grated orange zest. This adds a pop of color and a hint of citrus that enhances the flavors of the cake.
For a cozy winter vibe, serve it alongside a warm **spiced tea** or a glass of **mulled wine**. The spices in the drinks wonderfully complement the honey and cranberries. 🍷
If you’re going for a more elaborate dessert table, consider offering topping options like **whipped cream** or a bowl of fresh berries. 🍓 The versatility in serving styles makes this cake an ideal choice for gatherings of any size and style. **Indulge** yourself and your friends with every bite, creating memories that last beyond the holidays!
Equipment
A hand mixer will help you achieve the perfect texture for both the cake batter and the cream. Make sure it's clean and the beaters are well-attached!
You’ll need this to prepare the cranberry coulis. Opt for a non-stick saucepan to avoid burning the fruit.
A sieve is essential for incorporating the flour into the batter without lumps. Don't skip this step!
Several mixing bowls will make the preparation process smoother. Choose different sizes for convenience.
Choose a cake mold that fits snugly in your fridge. Using a springform pan can be handy for easy removal.
Variations
For a **gluten-free** version, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to double-check the ingredients for any additional binders or stabilizers needed. 🍞
If you're looking for a **vegan** alternative, you can use a flaxseed egg replacement instead of regular eggs. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg required; let it sit until it forms a gel-like consistency. Replace the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup to maintain that sweet essence without honey. 🍯
The **cream** can be made vegan with **coconut cream** whipped until fluffy. Add a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. This makes the cake equally delightful without compromising on taste! 🌿
Faq
- Why does my cake sink in the middle?
This could happen if the cake batter was over-mixed or if the oven temperature is too high which causes the outer edges to cook faster than the center.
- Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar, but keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different.
- How can I ensure my cranberry coulis thickens properly?
Make sure to dissolve the cornstarch fully in water before adding it, and continue stirring while cooking until it reaches the desired thickness.
- What's the best way to prevent the cream from becoming runny?
Use sour cream with at least 33% fat content and whip it until it's thick and airy. Avoid over-whipping to maintain its stability.
- How do I keep the cake moist?
Ensure you don't over-bake the cake and store it in the fridge with an airtight covering to prevent it from drying out.
- Is it possible to prepare components in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry coulis and the cream a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the cake on the day of serving for freshness.