Pão de Mel in a Tray: An Irresistible Brazilian Honey Cake Recipe

If you love desserts that blend deep, spiced flavors with an irresistible texture, you have to try this Pão de Mel “in a Tray” (Brazilian Honey Cake) recipe. Imagine the richness of a traditional honey cake, now taken to a new level with a luscious, creamy dulce de leche filling. This dessert is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a harmony of flavors that dances on your palate.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 14 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 28 oz (approx. 800g) dulce de leche (for the filling)
• 1/2 cup (approx. 200ml) heavy cream (for the filling)
• 10.5 oz (300g) milk chocolate (for the glaze)

How to Make Pão de Mel in a Tray:

1. Start by preparing the cake batter: whisk the honey, milk, water, brown sugar, cocoa powder, cloves, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly. Finally, fold in the baking soda and baking powder.
2. Pour the batter into a greased and floured baking dish. Bake at 390°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. While the cake is baking, prepare the filling: in a medium bowl, mix the dulce de leche with the heavy cream until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
4. Once the cake has cooled completely, slice it in half horizontally to create two layers. Spread the dulce de leche filling evenly over one layer, then top it with the second cake layer.
5. Prepare the glaze by melting the milk chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the cake, ensuring it is evenly covered on all sides.
7. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the dessert to set and the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tip:

When you cut the cake, you can poke small holes with a fork across the layers before adding the filling. This helps the dulce de leche soak into the crumb, making the dessert even more moist and indulgent.

Prep Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 10-12, perfect for sharing at parties and family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love It:

This “tray” version of the classic Pão de Mel is an explosion of flavor. The combination of the spiced, soft cake and the rich dulce de leche creates an incomparable gastronomic experience. The milk chocolate glaze adds an extra layer of decadence, making every bite a delight for the senses.

This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy family dinners. The dulce de leche filling adds a classic Brazilian touch, turning a traditional honey cake into something truly special.

Now that you know how to make this irresistible Pão de Mel, it’s time to surprise your friends and family. Get ready for requests for seconds—this recipe is simply unforgettable. Enjoy!