Name: Irresistibly Soft French Gingerbread Cakes with Marmalade Twist
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup water (filtered); 1/2 cup wildflower honey (preferably); 1/2 cup sugar (can use white or brown); 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 zest orange (from an organic orange); 2 teaspoons five-spice powder (or substitute with mixed spice); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with alternative); 1 cup rye flour (can substitute with all-purpose flour); 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon orange marmalade (can substitute with apricot jam); 3/4 cup icing sugar (can use powdered sugar); 2-3 tablespoons orange juice or rum (fresh orange juice recommended)

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As the warm scent of spices fills my kitchen, I’m instantly transported to a delightful winter market in France, surrounded by stalls filled with baked goods that beckon to be tasted. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for French Gingerbread Cakes, known as nonnettes, which capture that very essence of comfort and nostalgia. These tender, spiced gingerbread delights boast a luscious center of orange marmalade, bringing a sweet and tangy surprise to each bite. Not only are they incredibly quick to whip up, but they’re also the perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. With their rich flavors and charming presentation, these cakes are bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Curious about how to create these little treasures? Let’s dive into the recipe together!

Why Are Nonnettes So Special?

Comforting, Traditional Treats: These French Gingerbread Cakes bring a touch of holiday nostalgia to your kitchen, making them perfect for family gatherings.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have these sweet delights ready in no time.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap the orange marmalade for other jams, like apricot, to customize your flavor profile.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: A delightful combination of spice and sweetness, these cakes are a standout dessert option.
Great for Sharing: Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a charming dessert experience that guests will love. For more delightful ideas, check out my Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes or Mini Cheesecakes New!

French Gingerbread Cakes Ingredients

• Discover the delightful ingredients for French Gingerbread Cakes below!

For the Batter

Water – Hydrates the batter; use filtered water for the best results.
Sugar – Sweetens the cake; both white and brown sugar can work beautifully.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness and a distinct flavor; wildflower honey is preferred.
Butter – Provides richness and moisture; choose between unsalted or salted based on your taste.
Orange Zest – Infuses a fresh citrus flavor; zest from an organic orange elevates the taste.
Five-Spice Powder/Pain d’Épices Spices – Adds a unique blend of warming spices; can be substituted with a commercial mixed spice blend.
Cinnamon – Enhances the warmth and depth of flavor.
Flour – Forms the cake’s structure; feel free to use all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
Rye Flour – Contributes a distinctive flavor; you can substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure freshness.

For the Filling

Orange Marmalade – Provides a sweet and tangy center; feel free to replace with apricot jam or your favorite preserve.

For the Glaze

Icing Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; powdered sugar may be used in its place.
Orange Juice or Rum – Adds moisture and flavor to the glaze; fresh orange juice is highly recommended.

These ingredients will help you create the mouthwatering French Gingerbread Cakes that are sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Gingerbread Cakes

Step 1: Prepare the Ramekins
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, butter and flour 8 ramekins or a 12-cup muffin pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal later on. This step is vital to achieving that delightful texture in your French Gingerbread Cakes, which you want to pop out effortlessly.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of filtered water, ½ cup of wildflower honey, and ½ cup of sugar. Add ¼ cup of unsalted butter and the zest of one organic orange. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring until it is gently simmering. Remove from heat, allowing the warmth to coax out all the flavors, creating a beautifully fragrant liquid base for your batter.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Next, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rye flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2 teaspoons of five-spice powder into a large bowl. This ensures your dry ingredients are well combined and aerated, contributing to the perfect rise in your French Gingerbread Cakes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the dry mixture into the warm mixture from the saucepan while whisking continuously until a smooth batter forms. Be attentive to avoid lumps, as a smooth batter is key to successful nonnettes. Once combined, cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour, enhancing the flavors and preventing the marmalade from sinking later on.

Step 5: Fill Ramekins
After the batter is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir. Carefully scoop the batter into the prepared ramekins, filling each about halfway. Then, place 1 teaspoon of orange marmalade on top of each filled ramekin. This delightful fruity center will create that delicious surprise when you bite into the French Gingerbread Cakes.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Slide the ramekins into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This step ensures your cakes have that spongy texture with a slightly crisp exterior.

Step 7: Cool the Nonnettes
Once baked, remove the ramekins from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in their molds for 15 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to unmold while retaining that moist and fluffy interior that makes French Gingerbread Cakes so irresistible.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While your cakes cool, mix ¾ cup of icing sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice or rum in a small bowl. This will create a glossy glaze that will enhance the outer layer of your cakes. Aim for a consistency that is thick yet pourable for excellent coverage.

Step 9: Glaze the Cakes
After the cakes have cooled and are unmolded, use a pastry brush to evenly coat the tops with the luscious glaze. This sweet treatment adds a lovely finish to the already delightful French Gingerbread Cakes and brings a touch of shine that is oh-so-appetizing.

Step 10: Dry and Store
Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before storing your nonnettes. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but trust me, they are best enjoyed the next day when all those flavors have had a chance to meld together!

Expert Tips for French Gingerbread Cakes

Chill the Batter: Cooling the batter before baking ensures the orange marmalade doesn’t sink, maintaining that delightful surprise in every bite.
Use Quality Honey: Opt for high-quality wildflower honey. It significantly enhances the flavor of your French Gingerbread Cakes, making them taste homemade and special.
Smooth Mixing: Achieving a lump-free batter is crucial. Whisk thoroughly when combining wet and dry ingredients to prevent any lumps that can affect texture.
Careful Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Check for doneness with a toothpick, aiming for a few moist crumbs instead of wet batter.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh orange juice for the glaze. It not only adds flavor but gives a beautiful shine to your cakes, enhancing their presentation.
Variations Are Fun: Don’t hesitate to explore substitutes for the marmalade. Swapping it for apricot jam can offer a delightful twist to your nonnettes!

What to Serve with French Gingerbread Cakes?

Imagine cozying up with indulgent bites of sweet, spiced cake paired perfectly with scrumptious sides that enhance every delicious morsel.

Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai perfectly complements the gingerbread’s flavors, creating an inviting aroma that fills the air.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream balances the richness of the cakes, adding a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Chai Spiced Latte: This beverage wraps you in warmth with flavors of cinnamon and clove, echoing the spices in the nonnettes while creating a festive experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A zesty mix of fruits like grapefruit and apples cuts through the sweet richness, offering a refreshing bite between each decadent cake morsel.
Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of dark chocolate sauce over the cakes adds a touch of luxury and a hint of bitterness, beautifully contrasting the sweetness of the gingerbread.
Cheese Platter: Pairing with creamy brie or tangy blue cheese provides a delightful contrast, making for a sophisticated dessert experience.
Mulled Wine: This warming drink, infused with spices mirrors the flavors of the cakes and wraps up your meal in a cozy, delightful farewell.
Honeyed Yogurt: A small side of yogurt drizzled with honey contributes a tart and sweet contrast that perfectly complements the spiced notes of the nonnettes.
Orange Marmalade Toast: For a playful nod to the filling, serving thin slices of toast with orange marmalade brings out the bright citrus notes of the gingerbread cakes.

Make Ahead Options

These French Gingerbread Cakes (Nonnettes) are an excellent choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps, then cover and refrigerate it, which helps deepen the flavors. The cakes can also be baked and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let the glaze dry completely before storing to maintain that delightful shine. When ready to serve, simply warm them slightly in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience, ensuring they remain just as delicious and inviting!

Storage Tips for French Gingerbread Cakes

Room Temperature: Store the French Gingerbread Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to prolong freshness, you can refrigerate the cakes for up to 2 weeks; just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the nonnettes for up to 3 months. Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for best results.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cakes, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before warming them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

French Gingerbread Cakes Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you personalize these delightful gingerbread cakes!

Apricot Jam: Swap orange marmalade for apricot jam to introduce a fruity twist that complements the spices beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring a delightful flavor and texture in every bite.
Added Spice: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cloves alongside the five-spice powder for an extra warm and inviting aroma.
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version, infusing a subtle tropical note.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your cakes with a rich chocolate drizzle for an indulgent variation that’s sure to please chocolate lovers.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate lemon or lime zest alongside the orange for a citrus medley that brightens the flavor profile.
Chili Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick of heat that beautifully balances the sweetness.
Sweeten Naturally: Substitute white sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar for a healthier option.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my delightful Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes or those charming Mini Cheesecakes New. Happy baking!

French Honey Gingerbread Cakes (Nonnettes) Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use?
You can use a mix of all-purpose and rye flour for a lovely texture. If you’re looking for a lighter cake, feel free to substitute entirely with all-purpose flour, although this may slightly alter the flavor profile.

How should I store the nonnettes after baking?
Store your French Gingerbread Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but make sure to wrap them tightly to keep them moist.

Can I freeze French Honey Gingerbread Cakes?
Absolutely! To freeze your nonnettes, wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them again, and warm them gently in the oven to refresh their texture.

Why is my marmalade sinking to the bottom during baking?
This can happen if the batter isn’t dense enough or if it isn’t chilled properly. To prevent this, ensure you chill the batter for at least an hour before scooping it into the ramekins. When filling them, make sure to fill halfway and layer the marmalade on top for the best results.

What are some allergy considerations for this recipe?
The nonnettes contain common allergens like flour and butter. If you need a gluten-free alternative, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but remember that this may affect texture. Also, for those with dairy allergies, substitute the butter with a plant-based option.

What’s the best way to ensure my cakes have a nice glaze finish?
For that beautiful, glossy glaze, mix your icing sugar with fresh orange juice or rum until you reach a thick but pourable consistency. Brush the glaze over the cooled cakes, and ensure they’re completely dry at room temperature before storing them. This will give a lovely shine and enhance the overall presentation of your French Honey Gingerbread Cakes.