George Wintle’s Rosemary Cake

By: Barbara Updated on Fri, 25 Apr 2025 16:42:03 GMT Irresistible Desserts
Barbara, recipe developer and home cook at Graceful Flavors
Barbara

Hi, I'm Barbara, the recipe developer and home cook behind Graceful Flavors. I share approachable recipes with clear steps, familiar ingredients, and delicious results for real everyday kitchens.

Updated on Fri, 25 Apr 2025 16:42:03 GMT

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Two pieces of bread with butter and lavender on top. Pin it
Two pieces of bread with butter and lavender on top.

This rosemary syrup cake with mead cream transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that balances earthy herb notes with delicate sweetness. The combination of honey-mead syrup creates a moist, fragrant cake that feels both rustic and elegant at once.

I first made this cake for a spring garden party where I needed something sophisticated yet approachable. The aroma of rosemary filled my kitchen and guests kept returning for second slices throughout the evening.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Two slices of bread with purple flowers on top.
Two slices of bread with purple flowers on top.

The first time I served this cake, my grandmother asked for the recipe, which is the highest compliment in our family. She grew rosemary in her garden for decades and said she had never thought to use it in a sweet application until tasting this cake.

The Art of Syrup Application

Two pieces of bread with butter and lavender on top.
Two pieces of bread with butter and lavender on top.

Serving Suggestions

Historical Connections

Storage Solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes rosemary a good ingredient for cake?

Rosemary adds a subtle earthy and herbaceous aroma that pairs beautifully with sweet and savory elements in the cake.

Can I substitute mead in the recipe?

Yes, you can replace mead with apple cider, white wine, or even water combined with a touch of honey to maintain the flavor complexity.

How do I ensure the cake stays moist?

Properly measuring ingredients, not overmixing the batter, and baking at the correct temperature will help retain moisture. The syrup also enhances the cake's texture.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount, as dried rosemary has a more concentrated flavor. Be sure to crush it finely for the best result.

What is the purpose of mead cream in this dish?

Mead cream adds a rich and velvety component to the cake, complementing its herbal and sweet flavors with a creamy finish.

4.70 from 164 votes

George Wintle’s Rosemary Cake

Prep Time:
15 Minutes
Cook Time:
45 Minutes
Total Time:
60 Minutes
Servings:
10
Two pieces of bread with butter and lavender on top.

Aromatic rosemary cake paired with creamy mead, a delightful treat for all occasions.

Ingredients

  • Cake Batter

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
  • ½ cup milk
  • Syrup and Garnish

  • 1 cup honey
  • ½ cup fresh mead (or mead substitute)
  • Extra rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1.

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

2.

2. Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and light in color.

3.

3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.

4.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and chopped rosemary.

5.

5. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined and smooth.

6.

6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7.

7. Make the Syrup: While the cake is baking, combine honey and mead in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

8.

8. Cool the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9.

9. Drizzle with Syrup: After the cake has cooled, drizzle the honey-mead syrup over the top of the cake.

10.

10. Serve with Mead Cream: Top with mead cream if desired and garnish with rosemary sprigs.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9-inch round cake pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Wire rack
  • Saucepan
  • Toothpick

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (butter, milk)
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (flour)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: 4 g