Honey Sponge Cupcakes: A Delicate Delight
Indulge in the sweetness of these Honey Sponge Cupcakes, a recipe lovingly sourced from a treasured Chinese baking book, offering a delightful balance of tenderness and flavor. These cupcakes are not just a treat for the palate; they bring an aura of warmth and comfort, perfect for any occasion. With a total preparation and baking time of approximately 45 minutes, you will soon find yourself enjoying a batch of ultra-tender cupcakes that showcase the beauty of simple, quality ingredients.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Servings: 6 cupcakes
- Description: Soft, tender cupcakes flavored with honey, requiring some elbow grease to achieve the perfect texture.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 212.5 |
| Total Fat | 7.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 84.8 mg |
| Sodium | 24.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 33.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4 g |
| Sugars | 15.4 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 2 |
| Sugar | 50 g |
| Honey | 50 g |
| Cake Flour | 100 g |
| Unsalted Butter | 40 g |
Instructions
- Preparation of Egg Mixture: Begin by placing the eggs, sugar, and honey in a heatproof bowl. Set this bowl over a basin filled with gently simmering water to create a double boiler effect, ensuring the mixture warms evenly.
- Heat to Temperature: Allow the mixture to heat gently until it reaches 40°C (104°F), which helps to dissolve the sugar and create a stable egg mixture.
- Beat Until Thick: Using a hand-held mixer, beat the warmed egg mixture until it becomes creamy and thick. This process requires patience and attention, as achieving the right consistency is key—look for a texture that allows the mixture to leave ‘ribbons’ on the surface when you lift the beaters.
- Remove Air Bubbles: Continue beating at a low speed for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate any large air bubbles, which could compromise the texture of the cupcakes and lead to undesirable holes in the final product.
- Incorporate Cake Flour: Sift the cake flour over the egg mixture. With gentle and deliberate movements, fold the flour into the mixture, taking care to avoid deflating the batter, as this will help retain the lightness that characterizes a perfect sponge.
- Add Butter: Gradually introduce the melted unsalted butter into the batter. Mix well but continue to be gentle—this step is crucial for maintaining the airy quality of the mixture.
- Prepare for Baking: Carefully pour the batter into greased or lined muffin cups, filling each one about three-quarters full to allow room for rising during baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cupcakes for approximately 20 minutes. Keep in mind that honey caramelizes faster, causing the cupcakes to darken quickly, so watch them closely.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure that the cupcakes are fully baked, they should feel springy when lightly pressed. You may also use the toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean when the cupcakes are ready.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked to perfection, allow the cupcakes to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. These delicate treats are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored in an airtight container for later indulgence.
Additional Notes
- Leavening: It is essential to remember that the volume of the beaten eggs is the only leavening agent in this recipe, as there is no baking powder or baking soda included. This makes the beating process crucial to achieving the desired rise and texture of the cupcakes.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with adding spices or zest to the batter for a unique twist on these classic honey-flavored cupcakes. A touch of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the natural sweetness of honey beautifully.
These Honey Sponge Cupcakes will undoubtedly become a favorite in your home, cherished for their light texture and rich flavor, making them a delightful dessert that both kids and adults will love. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to share the joy of these delectable treats with family and friends!
Keywords
Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top, Easy
