Rosh Hashanah Honey Loaf with Cinnamon
A tender honey and cinnamon loaf cake for Rosh Hashanah, with a gently spiced crumb.
Honey cake is a warmly spiced loaf often served around Rosh Hashanah. This source combines honey, sugar, eggs, milk, oil, flour, cinnamon and vanilla. The large honey quantity can make the cake heavy, so this version moderates it and uses a standard loaf-pan amount that bakes more evenly. Mix only until the flour disappears, then check the centre with a skewer near the end of baking. Let the cake cool fully before slicing; the flavour deepens after resting overnight. Heat oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 23 x 13 cm loaf pan. Whisk eggs and sugar until combined. Whisk in honey, milk, oil and vanilla. In another bowl whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Fold into wet ingredients just until no dry flour remains.

Recipe card
Rosh Hashanah Honey Loaf with Cinnamon
Equipment: Knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, large skillet or saucepan
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare pan
Heat oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 23 x 13 cm loaf pan.
Mix wet ingredients
Whisk eggs and sugar until combined. Whisk in honey, milk, oil and vanilla.
Add dry ingredients
In another bowl whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Fold into wet ingredients just until no dry flour remains.
Bake
Pour into pan and scatter almonds on top if using. Bake 50 to 60 minutes until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool
Cool in pan 15 minutes, then turn out and cool completely before slicing.
How to tell when it is ready
A skewer inserted in the centre comes out with a few moist crumbs; the centre is set.
Tips
- Measure flour without packing it.
- Mix only until combined.
- Tent loosely with foil if the top browns early.
- Cool fully before slicing.
Troubleshooting
- If the dish cooks unevenly, cut ingredients into similar sizes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Substitutions
- Use a similar neutral cooking oil if needed.
- Choose fresh herbs that complement the dish.
Variations
- Adjust herbs or seasoning to taste.
- Add a pinch of chilli for gentle heat.
Serving suggestions
- Serve with tea.
- Pair with apple slices.
- Offer lightly sweetened yogurt.
- Slice for a holiday dessert table.
Make ahead
Bake one day ahead and wrap once fully cool; the flavour settles overnight.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Food safety
Contains wheat, eggs, milk and possible tree nuts. Do not serve honey to infants under 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare this ahead?
Prepare suitable components ahead and refrigerate them promptly.
How should I store rosh hashanah honey cake?
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Serve warm and refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Spotted a detail that needs correcting? Contact the FeastDelights editors.





