Wonderful Polish Cake

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or a 9×9-inch square pan.
2. Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and all the spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice).
3. Heat the honey mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, sugar, and butter. Stir occasionally until the butter is melted, and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
4. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the milk and vanilla extract until combined. Slowly add the cooled honey mixture, and stir until smooth.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can affect the texture of the cake.
6. Add coffee or water: Mix in the brewed coffee or water. This will thin the batter slightly, making it pourable. If you’re using nuts, fold them in now.
7. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Cool the cake: Let the cake cool completely in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the icing: While the cake is cooling, make the icing by mixing powdered sugar with milk (or lemon juice) and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle-able. If you prefer a thicker icing, use less milk.
10. Decorate: Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the icing over the top, allowing it to set slightly.
11. Serve: Slice the cake and enjoy the rich, spiced flavor of this classic Polish honey cake. It’s great on its own or served with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips:

• This cake often tastes even better after sitting for a day or two, as the flavors have time to meld together.
• The honey used in the cake gives it a lovely sweetness and moist texture.

Enjoy your wonderful Polish honey cake!