The Welsh Honey Cake is a delightful treat known for its rich sweetness and moist texture, attributed to the generous use of honey, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and occasionally, the addition of dried fruits like raisins or currants. This traditional Welsh dessert has roots that trace back to centuries ago when honey was a cherished ingredient in Welsh cuisine, symbolizing prosperity and sweetness in life.

The history of the Welsh Honey Cake reflects the ingenuity of Welsh bakers who crafted this recipe to celebrate local flavors and traditions. Over time, it became a beloved staple, enjoyed during festive occasions, family gatherings, and everyday indulgences. Today, it continues to captivate palates with its unique blend of flavors and a nostalgic charm that harks back to Wales' culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup honey

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 2 eggs

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruits like raisins or currants (for variation)

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.

4. Stir in the honey until evenly incorporated into the mixture.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried fruits if using.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, slice and serve the Welsh Honey Cake, optionally dusting with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Nutrition Value:

1. 1 cup honey:

  - Calories: 1031 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 279.6 g

  - Protein: 1.2 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 12 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, and folate.

  - Minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Honey is a natural sweetener rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties. It provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content.

2. 1 cup all-purpose flour:

  - Calories: 455 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 95.4 g

  - Protein: 12.9 g

  - Fat: 1.2 g

  - Sodium: 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, and vitamin E.

  - Minerals: Contains iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Flour provides carbohydrates for energy and some essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened:

  - Calories: 813 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.1 g

  - Protein: 0.9 g

  - Fat: 92 g

  - Sodium: 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 244 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A and vitamin D.

  - Minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Butter adds richness and flavor to the cake but is high in saturated fats, so should be consumed in moderation.

4. 1/2 cup sugar:

  - Calories: 387 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 99.8 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

  - Minerals: No significant mineral content.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Sugar provides sweetness but offers minimal nutritional benefits and should be consumed in moderation.

5. 2 eggs:

  - Calories: 140 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1.1 g

  - Protein: 12.6 g

  - Fat: 9.7 g

  - Sodium: 140 mg

  - Cholesterol: 372 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B2, vitamin B5, vitamin B12, and choline.

  - Minerals: Contains selenium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Eggs are a good source of high-quality protein and various vitamins and minerals, especially B vitamins and choline.

6. 1 teaspoon baking powder:

  - Calories: 2 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.9 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 488 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

  - Minerals: No significant mineral content.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cake rise but has minimal nutritional impact.

7. 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon:

  - Calories: 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.9 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 0.2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin K.

  - Minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium, iron, and manganese.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Cinnamon adds flavor and may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

8. 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg:

  - Calories: 5 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 1.1 g

  - Protein: 0.1 g

  - Fat: 0.4 g

  - Sodium: 0.2 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin A and vitamin E.

  - Minerals: Contains trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic flavor and may have digestive health benefits in small amounts.

9. 1/4 teaspoon salt:

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Sodium: 581 mg

  - Cholesterol: 0 mg

  - Vitamins: No significant vitamin content.

  - Minerals: Contains sodium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to control sodium intake.

10. Optional: 1/2 cup dried fruits like raisins or currants:

  - Nutritional content varies based on the specific type of dried fruits used. Generally, dried fruits are high in carbohydrates, natural sugars, and fiber, along with some vitamins and minerals.

Including dried fruits adds natural sweetness and texture to the cake, along with additional dietary fiber and micronutrients found in the fruits.

These nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands or variations in ingredients. It's important to note portion sizes and consumption levels for a balanced diet.