French Pain Depices

Step into the heart of French tradition with this fragrant and comforting Pain d'Épices, a classic spice-infused loaf cake that’s perfect for the cooler months. Made with rich honey, warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, and brightened with a touch of orange zest, this recipe creates a moist, flavor-packed bread that’s as versatile as it is delicious. The addition of whole milk and butter ensures a tender crumb, while the gentle aroma of anise and nutmeg evokes the charm of an artisan French pâtisserie. Ready in just over an hour, this easy-to-make treat is ideal for breakfast, an afternoon tea pairing, or even as a festive holiday gift. Serve it plain, spread with butter, or crowned with a drizzle of honey for an irresistible taste of France in every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 250 grams All-purpose flour
• 200 grams Honey
• 50 grams Brown sugar
• 120 milliliters Whole milk
• 50 grams Unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground ginger
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cloves
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground anise seed
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 1 large Egg
• 1 teaspoon Orange zest

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a small saucepan, combine the milk, honey, and butter. Heat gently over low heat until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground anise seed, ground nutmeg, and salt.

Step 4

In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg and stir in the orange zest. Combine this egg mixture with the cooled milk and honey mixture, whisking until smooth.

Step 5

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the liquid mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8

Allow the Pain d'Épices to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Step 9

Enjoy plain, or serve with butter, jam, or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	750 grams (750.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2278

Total Fat 57.60g	74%
Saturated Fat 29.80g	149%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.10g
Cholesterol 345mg	115%
Sodium 1093mg	48%
Total Carbohydrate 420.10g	153%
Dietary Fiber 9.30g	33%
Total Sugars 219.30g
Protein 38.20g	76%

Vitamin D 108IU	541%
Calcium 313mg	24%
Iron 14mg	79%
Potassium 748mg	16%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.0%

Protein: 6.5%

Carbs: 71.5%