Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-drenched islands of Trinidad and Tobago? Then prepare yourself for a taste sensation unlike any other – the legendary Black Cake! This isn't your average cake; it's a rich, dark, boozy delight, steeped in tradition and bursting with flavour. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply indulging in a decadent dessert, this recipe unlocks the secrets to making this iconic homemade treat. It's easier than you think!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields a magnificent 10-inch round cake.
- Fruits:
- 1 lb mixed dried fruits (currants, raisins, cherries, prunes, etc.) – the more variety, the better!
- 1 cup glace cherries, halved
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup currants
- ½ cup prunes, chopped
- ½ cup mixed peel (candied citrus peel)
- Liquors:
- 1 cup dark rum (or other dark spirit like brandy)
- ½ cup dark rum (for additional soaking)
- Spices:
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- Other:
- 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
- ½ cup molasses
- ½ cup water
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 1 cup shortening (vegetable shortening recommended)
- ½ cup butter, softened
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fruits
In a large bowl, combine all the dried fruits. Pour over 1 cup of dark rum and allow the fruits to soak for at least 24 hours, or even longer for a richer flavor – preferably 3-4 days. The longer they soak, the better! Stir occasionally to ensure all the fruits are coated.
Step 2: Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, shortening, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the molasses and mix well.
Step 3: Adding Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, self-raising flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Incorporating the Fruits
Gently fold in the soaked fruits and their rum. Remember to drain any excess rum before adding them to the batter. This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch round cake pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 2.5-3 hours, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This delicious cake is best enjoyed after it has had a chance to rest and the flavors have fully developed. Once cooled, you can add a simple icing or glaze, if desired, but the cake is delicious on its own.
Tips and Variations:
- Soaking Time: For the best flavor, soak the fruits for at least 24 hours, or even longer for a richer taste.
- Liquor Options: Feel free to experiment with different liquors like brandy or dark rum.
- Fruit Variations: Use your favourite dried fruits, or even add some chopped nuts for added texture.
- Icing: A simple rum-flavored icing or a rich chocolate ganache complements this cake perfectly.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. The nutritional information below is approximate and should be used as a general guide. Please note that this is a rich dessert and therefore calorie content will be higher.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 kcal
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Sugar: Approximately 50-60g
This Trinidad and Tobago Black Cake recipe is a true culinary masterpiece, a delicious dish perfect for celebrating any occasion. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious and festive treat, and savor every bite of this unforgettable culinary experience. Happy baking!