This Dutch honey cake, also known as honingkoek in the Netherlands, is a delectable treat with just a hint of sweetness. This loaf-shaped “cake” is actually a slightly sweetened quick bread. And the best part is that this cake is incredibly simple to make. Despite the fact that there is no butter in the batter, this Scandinavian cake became known as “butter cake” in some parts of the United States.

This is because it is customary to slice the cake immediately after it comes out of the oven and toast it like bread, serving each slice with butter on top instead of frosting or glaze. This spice cake loaf’s batter is a rich mixture of honey, whole milk, and brown sugar spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The cake is then baked in a loaf pan for an hour at a low temperature.

You can eat this cake plain, but toasting and buttering it enhances the warm, spicy flavor even more. This is a typical Dutch breakfast, as sweet foods for the morning meal are common. After all, the Dutch enjoy toast with butter and chocolate sprinkles for breakfast as well. This honey cake is also delicious as a snack or dessert. This cake has a hearty and comforting flavor that makes it suitable for almost any time of day. Try it with or without butter for a taste of the Netherlands right in your own kitchen.