She Strengthens

Sweet Simplicity: The Art of Elegant Desserts

A Delicate Balance of Flavors

When it comes to desserts, simplicity can be a powerful tool. This beautiful buttermilk and honey cake is a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With a tender crumb and a subtle sweetness, this cake is sure to impress without overwhelming.

The Perfect Texture

The key to this cake’s success lies in its texture. A delicate balance of crumbliness and moisture, achieved through the use of buttermilk and honey, creates a truly unique eating experience. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make.

A Refreshing Alternative to Frosting

Instead of relying on thick, overly sweet frosting, this cake is topped with a light and airy honey whipped cream. The result is a dessert that feels both indulgent and refined. For an even simpler approach, a dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance to this already-stunning cake.

Inspiration from “Simple Cake”

This recipe is just one of many delicious treats found in Odette Williams’ cookbook “Simple Cake: All You Need To Keep Your Friends and Family in a Cake”. With its focus on ease and simplicity, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game without breaking a sweat.

Get Started with These Essential Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk, shaken
• 3⁄4 cup honey
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar

For the honey whipped cream:

• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1⁄2 cup (115g) heavy cream, chilled
• 1 tablespoon of sifted confectioners’ sugar

Easy Steps to a Stunning Cake

To make the cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 8 by 2-inch round pans with butter, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, and grease the paper.
2. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Whisk together eggs, buttermilk, honey, and vanilla in separate bowls.
4. Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then add the eggs one tablespoon at a time.
5. Alternate adding the dry and wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-38 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

To make the honey whipped cream:

1. Pour the cream into a cold large metal bowl.
2. Whisk the cream until it has doubled in volume and has smooth soft peaks.
3. Add the honey and confectioners’ sugar, and whisk until combined.

Tips and Variations

• Try using different types of honey to alter the flavor profile of the cake.
• Freeze one of the cake layers for later use.
• Experiment with different flavorings, such as yogurt or finely grated zest, in the honey whipped cream.