Honey Tea Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350.
2. 2
   Butter a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan.
3. 3
   In a medium bowl, whisk the flour with the sugar, orange zest, baking powder, baking soda, anise seeds, ginger, cinnamon, salt and pepper.
4. 4
   In the bowl of an electric standing mixer fitted with the paddle, combine 3/4 cup of the honey with the water, Cognac and melted butter; mix until blended.
5. 5
   Add the flour mixture and mix at medium-low speed until incorporated.
6. 6
   Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 1 hour, until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7
   Let the cake cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
8. 8
   In a small bowl, microwave the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey until fluid, 20 seconds.
9. 9
   Turn the cake out onto a rack then right side up.
10. 10
    Brush the top and sides with the honey.
11. 11
    Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes before serving.