Rosh HaShanah Honey Cake

Rosh HaShanah marks the beginning of the new year. This year, Rosh HaShanah begins at sundown on Friday, September 18, 2009. In the Jewish calendar, this begins the month of Tishri. The period between Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) is often referred to as the Days of Awe. These are the Holiest Days of the Jewish year.

This is a traditional honey cake that is served at Rosh HaShanah. The cake symbolizes a “sweet” future for the coming year. I make this cake year round. It's easy and tasty.

1 Cup Honey
1 Cup Vegetable Oil
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
4 Eggs
2 ½ Cups Flour
1 ½ tsp Baking Powder
½ tsp Baking Soda
½ tsp Ground Allspice
½ tsp instant coffee granules
½ Cup Hot Water
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
½ tsp Lemon Extract
½ tsp Almond Extract

Beat the first 4 ingredients at a medium speed. Combine flour and next 3 ingredients; gradually add to the honey mixture. Mix well. Dissolve the coffee granules in the hot water and add to the mixture. Stir in flavorings. Pour into 2 greased and floured 9 x 5 inch loaf pans.

Bake at 325 Degrees F for 1 hour to 1.25 hours, or until a wooden tooth pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool loaves and remove from pans.