Black cake, a dense and rich Caribbean fruitcake soaked in rum and packed with dried fruits, brings festive flavors to every bite.
Ready to dive into the decadent world of black cake magic? You’re in the right spot! This isn’t just any black cake; it’s the ultimate fusion of rich, dark fruits soaked in spirits and a symphony of spices. Get prepared for a journey through luscious batter land, step-by-step details, and pro tips that promise a cake as mesmerizing as a midnight starlit sky. Let’s bake brilliance!
About Black Cake
Black Cake, also known as fruit cake, is a rich, dense, and dark cake, often enjoyed during the holidays or special occasions. Bursting with plump, rum-soaked fruits and a medley of spices, this cake is a celebration of decadent flavors. Made with love and patience, its deep color and robust taste are sure to impress any crowd.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5 hours
- Type: Dessert
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Method: Baking
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, prunes)
- 1/2 cup rum
- 1/2 cup port wine
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup burnt sugar (browning)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and line a 9-inch baking pan.
- Soak the mixed dried fruits in rum and port wine overnight or at least 2 hours.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, beat the brown sugar and butter until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract, molasses, and burnt sugar.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with orange juice, and mix until combined.
- Fold in the soaked fruits and any remaining liquid. Add nuts if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 2.5 hours or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Suggestions
- Alternative Ingredients: Swap rum for brandy or whiskey. Use different dried fruits like apricots or dates.
- Garnishing: Decorate with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing. Add a few candied cherries for a festive touch.
- Cooking Tips: Plan ahead! The longer the fruits soak, the better the flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer preservation.
