Introduction
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this delightful coffee cake, perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat. With its blend of spices and a luscious crumble topping, this cake is sure to please everyone at the table. This recipe combines molasses and apple juice, resulting in a moist and aromatic cake that pairs beautifully with your favorite coffee or tea.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cake:
– 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground cloves
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 6 tablespoons softened butter
– ½ cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– ⅔ cup apple juice
Crumble Topping:
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 9 servings
Follow the simple steps to create a beautiful cake that will fill your home with fragrant aromas and delight your taste buds. Happy baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350℉. Prepare a 9×9-inch pan by greasing the bottom and sides with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are evenly blended.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, use a stand or hand mixer to blend together 6 tablespoons of softened butter and ½ cup of molasses until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Apple Juice
Add ⅔ cup of apple juice and 1 large egg to the butter-molasses mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, being careful not to over-mix.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture in three parts, mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated and a batter forms.
Step 6: Transfer Batter to Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
Step 7: Prepare Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of ground ginger. Mix these ingredients together until they resemble coarse crumbs, then stir in 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter until well combined.
Step 8: Add Crumble Topping
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter in the pan.
Step 9: Bake the Coffee Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the coffee cake from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Ingredient Temperature
Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in the cake.
Note 2: Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Note 3: Flavor Variations
You can enhance the flavors by adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter or topping if desired.
Note 4: Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and spices until evenly combined to ensure the distribution of flavors and leavening agents.
Blending Wet Ingredients
Use a stand or hand mixer to blend softened butter and molasses until smooth, creating a creamy base for the cake that helps incorporate air for a light texture.
Incorporating Ingredients
Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet mixture in three batches, mixing just until fully incorporated. This prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Preparing the Crumble Topping
Combine all crumble topping ingredients in a bowl until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This texture helps create a crunchy topping that contrasts nicely with the soft cake.
Baking
Bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is fully cooked through without being dry.
FAQ
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute the molasses with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor, but this may alter the texture slightly.
What can I use for a gluten-free version?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
Can I add nuts or fruits to the cake?
Absolutely! Add chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter before baking to enhance flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can this cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
This deliciously spiced cake with a sweet crumble topping offers a perfect blend of flavors that is sure to please any palate. The combination of molasses, apple juice, and warm spices creates a moist dessert that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Enjoying this cake warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhances its comforting qualities.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Pumpkin Cake
Substitute pumpkin puree for apple juice and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a seasonal twist.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Replace half of the flour with mashed bananas and add chocolate chips to create a rich, moist bread.
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Add grated carrots and walnuts, then top with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake
Incorporate diced apples into the batter and increase cinnamon in the crumble for a classic combination.
Pecan Praline Topping
Mix chopped pecans and a touch of maple syrup into the crumble topping for a nutty, sweet crunch.
