Jamaica • Caribbean • medium • 120 mins
Jamaica Jamaican Rum Cake
Description
Jamaican Rum Cake, also known as ‘Black Cake’, is a rich, moist dessert made with dried fruits soaked in rum and spices. It holds cultural significance as a traditional cake served during celebrations, particularly weddings and Christmas, symbolizing joy and togetherness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, prunes, cherries)
- 1 cup dark rum
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup molasses
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the mixed dried fruits in dark rum for at least 24 hours, preferably a week, to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the soaked fruits and rum.
- Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, and fold in the walnuts if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For added flavor, you can brush the cake with additional rum once cooled.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 per serving
Servings: 12
Dietary: vegetarian
⚠️ Allergens: dairy, gluten, nuts
Health Benefits
Jamaican Rum Cake is rich in antioxidants from the mixed dried fruits, which can help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health. The spices like cinnamon and nutmeg not only enhance flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory properties and potential digestive benefits. Additionally, the use of dark rum in moderation may provide some cardiovascular benefits due to its polyphenol content. While the cake is a caloric dessert, its rich ingredients can provide energy and comfort, making it a culturally significant treat in Jamaican celebrations.
Cultural Significance
Rum Cake is deeply rooted in Jamaican culture, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings. The tradition of soaking fruits in rum dates back to colonial times, reflecting the island’s history of sugar and rum production.
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