Rich Coffee Cake

This Rich Coffee Cake is an indulgent treat packed with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and a hint of brandy. The bold flavors of molasses and cold brewed coffee make this cake a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or special occasions. A unique blend of cinnamon, clove, mace, and allspice adds warmth, while raisins, currants, and citron provide texture and sweetness.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 1 cup cold brewed coffee
  • 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground clove
  • ½ teaspoon ground mace
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ¾ cup raisins (seeded and chopped)
  • ¾ cup currants
  • ¼ cup citron (thinly sliced and cut into strips)
  • 2 tablespoons brandy

Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

  1. Cream butter and sugar:
    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs:
    Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Mix in molasses and coffee:
    Stir in the molasses and cold brewed coffee until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine dry ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, clove, mace, and allspice.
  5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients:
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  6. Fold in the fruits and brandy:
    Gently fold in the chopped raisins, currants, citron, and brandy, ensuring even distribution.

Bake the Cake:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the cake pans:
    Grease and flour two deep cake pans.
  3. Pour and bake:
    Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
  4. Bake:
    Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Cool:
    Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Optional Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, coffee, and a splash of brandy for extra flavor.
  • Make Ahead: The cake’s flavors deepen over time, so it’s a great recipe to make a day or two in advance of your event.

There you go, enjoy this Rich Coffee Cake with its deeply flavored mix of spices and fruits! Whether served plain or with a drizzle of glaze, it’s the perfect companion for your next coffee break or special celebration.