Name: Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour; 3/4 cup Granulated sugar; 3 teaspoons Baking powder; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 2 large Eggs (lightly beaten); 1 cup Buttermilk; 1/3 cup Vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons Pomegranate molasses; 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract; 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup Brown sugar (loosely packed); 1/3 cup All-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 4 tablespoons Softened butter

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Every time I think of Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen in the fall. The air would be filled with the sweet aroma of baking, the perfect blend of spices and the unique tang of pomegranate. It was one of those recipes that brought the family together, where we would gather around the table, savoring slices of cake with cups of steaming tea. The way the light would dance on the golden crust was just a reminder of the love and care baked into every bite. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, a slice of warmth that embodies the essence of autumn.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
13 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Blender, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake Hits Different

Unique Flavor Profile

What I love most about Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake is its unique flavor profile. The sweetness of the pomegranate molasses adds a rich complexity that you won’t find in typical coffee cakes. It’s a delightful surprise that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Gatherings

This cake is perfect for gatherings, be it a coffee break with friends or a festive fall celebration. It has that inviting quality that makes it hard to resist, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice while sharing stories and laughter.

Textural Bliss

The contrasting textures in Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake are another reason it stands out. The soft, moist cake paired with the buttery crumble topping creates a delightful experience with every bite. It’s a treat for both the senses and the soul.

Easy to Make

Despite its impressive flavor, this cake is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients that come together effortlessly, even beginner bakers can whip this up and impress their friends and family.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you serve it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake fits any occasion perfectly. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a fantastic choice for brunch or just a cozy evening at home.

Healthier Twist

This cake also offers a healthier twist compared to many traditional desserts. With the use of buttermilk and the natural sweetness of pomegranate, you can enjoy a slice without the guilt that often accompanies sweet treats.

What Goes Into Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake

When it comes to making a delicious Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake, the ingredients truly matter. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures. With a combination of basic pantry staples and a few special ingredients, this cake showcases how simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary results.

All-purpose flour: The base of our cake, providing structure and a soft crumb.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s moisture.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that gives our cake its rise.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Large eggs: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the cake tender.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
Pomegranate molasses: The star ingredient, providing a unique sweetness and acidity.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the other flavors.
Unsalted butter: For richness in both the cake and the crumble topping.
Brown sugar: Adds a deeper sweetness and moisture to the crumble.
More all-purpose flour: Used for the crumble to create a delicious texture.
Softened butter: Helps in making the crumble topping crumbly and rich.

Step by Step Instructions for Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake

Creating the perfect Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake is a fun and rewarding experience. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouth-watering cake that fills your home with the aroma of baking. Pay close attention to the details in each step to ensure your cake turns out amazing!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying it with nonstick spray. This ensures easy removal of your cake once baked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well so that they are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 lightly beaten eggs, 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, 3 tablespoons of pomegranate molasses, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Combining the wet ingredients in a separate bowl ensures they blend well before mixing with the dry ingredients.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Finally, stir in 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter until incorporated.
To make the crumble topping, in a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Use your fingers, a fork, or a pastry blender to mix in 4 tablespoons of softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t rush this step; the texture of the crumble is key!
Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Then, sprinkle half of the crumble mixture on top of the batter. This layering creates a deliciously sweet surprise in the middle of the cake.
Top with the remaining batter, spreading it evenly. Once again, sprinkle the rest of the crumble on top. This will create a beautiful, crunchy topping once baked.
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. This cooling period allows the cake to firm up, making it easier to remove.
Carefully lift the cake out of the pan using the parchment paper, letting it cool completely on a wire rack for an additional hour before slicing. This ensures the perfect texture and prevents the cake from becoming too crumbly when cut.

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and buttermilk helps the batter to blend smoothly, resulting in a lighter texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for the best texture and flavor.
Check for Doneness: A toothpick should come out clean from the center of the cake to ensure it’s baked perfectly.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to add a twist to your Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake, or just want to explore some variations, you’re in the right place! There are several ways to customize this delicious cake to suit your taste.

Storage: After cooling, store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter or crumble for extra crunch and flavor.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate a hint of nutmeg or ginger to the mix to enhance the spiciness of the cake.
Fruit Variations: Substitute or add other fruits like blueberries or apples to the batter for a fruity twist.

Pairing Suggestions for Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake

When it comes to serving your Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake, the possibilities are endless! This cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making it suitable for different occasions.

Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast option.
Brunch Delight: Serve it at a brunch gathering alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a complete meal.
Afternoon Snack: Pair with a hot cup of tea for a cozy afternoon treat, perfect for catching up with friends.
Special Occasions: This cake makes a lovely addition to fall celebrations, family gatherings, or holidays such as Thanksgiving.
Storage Tips: If you plan on making this cake ahead of time, you can store it for a few days, keeping its flavors intact.

FAQ

While pomegranate molasses gives this cake its unique flavor, you can experiment with other types, such as regular molasses. However, be mindful that this will change the flavor profile slightly. Try to stick with the pomegranate variety for the best results, as its tangy sweetness is what truly makes this cake special.

To store your Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to prolong its freshness, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze it wrapped tightly for up to three months. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum or add some for proper texture. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same, and you should enjoy a delicious cake without gluten!

To enhance the flavor of your Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake, consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger. You can also incorporate zest from citrus fruits to give it a fresh kick. Additionally, serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of creamy icing can elevate the overall experience.

If stored properly in an airtight container, your Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake will last for about three days at room temperature. If you refrigerate it, it can stay fresh for up to a week. If you choose to freeze it, it will stay good for three months. Always ensure it’s fully cooled before storing.

Conclusion

The Pomegranate Molasses Coffee Cake is truly a special dessert that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. With its unique flavors and delightful textures, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. I encourage you to make this scrumptious cake and share it with those you love. You won’t regret bringing this aromatic delight into your home!