Madeiran Honey Cake (Bolo de Mel) Recipe
Ingredients
Directions
- Preheat oven to 180°C or 350°F.
- Beat the egg yolks with the sugar until it forms a creamy whitish cream.
- While continuing to beat, add the butter, honey, cinnamon, fennel, milk and port wine.
- Add the sifted flour with the baking powder and beat well.
- Beat the egg whites until it's firm, add it to the dough and mix gently.
- Finally add the walnut kernel, and mix well.
- Pour the dough into a greased with margarine and dusted with flour cake form.
- Bake for about 40 minutes.
- Once the cake is cold, unmold and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Adapted from a Recipe by: Julieta Venâncio, RECEITAS DE CULINáRIA
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness, but the flavor profile will differ slightly. Keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener may affect the moisture content of the cake.
Store the Madeiran Honey Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it or freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
There are a few reasons why your cake might not have risen. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and not expired. Also, be gentle when folding in the egg whites; over-mixing can deflate the air you incorporated. Lastly, ensure that you preheat the oven completely before baking.
Recommended Drink Pairings
Wine
Portuguese: Madeira Wine - The rich and complex flavors of Madeira wine complement the sweetness of the honey and the warm spices in the cake.
General: Late Bottled Vintage Port - This fortified wine's deep fruit flavors and sweetness enhance the cake's honey and nutty notes.
Beer
Portuguese: Super Bock - This lager's crispness and light bitterness balance the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
General: Amber Ale - The caramel and toasty malt profiles of an amber ale harmonize with the cake's flavors, making it a delightful pairing.
Other Beverages
Espresso: A rich and bold espresso can cut through the sweetness of the cake, providing a perfect contrast to the dessert.
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