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Black Cake

Black Cake – rich Guyanese fruitcake with rum
Guyana
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Black Cake is a rich and flavorful dessert that holds a special place in Guyanese culture, often enjoyed during festive occasions such as Christmas and weddings. This traditional cake, infused with a blend of dried fruits and dark rum, symbolizes celebration and togetherness. Its deep color and luxurious taste make it a beloved treat for family gatherings and special events.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~400 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cherries, etc.), finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup prunes, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup almonds, finely chopped
  • 1 cup dark rum
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/4 cup treacle or dark corn syrup
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 cup candied citrus peel, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup glacé cherries, halved (for decoration)

Instructions

Prepare the Fruit

Place the mixed dried fruit, prunes, almonds, and 1/2 cup of rum in a bowl. Let soak overnight or for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan or a similar-sized pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the molasses, treacle (or dark corn syrup), orange zest, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract.

Combine Fruit and Batter

Fold the soaked fruit mixture into the batter, followed by the chopped candied citrus peel and the remaining 1/2 cup of rum.

Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Decorate with the glacé cherries if desired.

Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Cake?

Black Cake is a moist, dense cake made with a variety of soaked dried fruits, nuts, and spices, often flavored with dark rum.

Where does Black Cake come from?

Black Cake originates from Guyana, where it is a cherished part of the culinary tradition, especially during holidays.

What are the main ingredients in Black Cake?

Key ingredients include mixed dried fruit, prunes, almonds, dark rum, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

How long does Black Cake take to make?

The total time to make Black Cake is between 1560 to 1620 minutes.

What do you serve with Black Cake?

Black Cake is often served with a glass of dark rum or a cup of tea, making it a delightful pairing for celebrations.

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