Irresistible Black Cake: A Caribbean Festive Favorite

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something truly heartwarming about the holiday season a time when families gather, laughter fills the air, and festive treats abound. Recently, I found myself reminiscing about the tantalizing aroma of Caribbean Black Cake wafting through my childhood home. This rich, decadent dessert, soaked in dark rum and port, has been a staple at our celebrations, evoking memories of joy and nostalgia with every bite.

Imagine indulging in a slice that boasts a symphony of flavors from plump dried fruits and a hint of warm spices, all wrapped in a beautifully moist and dense texture. It may not just be a cake; it s the centerpiece of gatherings, creating that perfect sweet moment where everyone feels right at home. Even better, this version is quick to prepare and shines brightest when made ahead of time allowing its flavors to deepen, making it an ideal addition to your holiday festivities. Ready to impress your friends and family with your baking skills? Let s dive into the delightful world of Caribbean Black Cake!

Why is Black Cake a Must-Try?

Rich Flavor: This black cake is a true showstopper, made with a splendid blend of port, dark rum, and a medley of dried fruits that create a symphony of taste in every bite.

Festive Essential: Perfect for holidays, this cake is a cherished tradition at celebrations, bridging generations with its unique flavors and rich history.

Make-Ahead Magic: With its make-ahead capabilities, this cake allows you to elevate your hosting game, as it only gets better with time, giving you more room to enjoy your company.

Versatile Options: Experiment with various dried fruits or spirits to customize your cake, allowing for endless creativity and personal flair in the kitchen.

Moist & Decadent: The rich, dense texture keeps each slice moist and satisfying, making it the perfect indulgence for any sweet tooth.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Discover how simple it is to create this delightful masterpiece that your family and friends will rave about!

Black Cake Ingredients

For the Dried Fruits
Currants Sweetness and moisture; substitute with sultanas for a lighter flavor.
Raisins Adds sweetness and texture; can be swapped with other dried fruits as per preference.
Prunes Contributes moisture and richness; dates can be used as a replacement if desired.
Glacé Cherries For sweetness and vibrant color; optional ingredient for those who prefer less sweetness.

For the Flavor Base
Port Imparts depth and sweetness to the cake; opt for good quality port, or use cherry brandy if preferred.
Dark Rum Provides a rich, complex flavor; bourbon is a worthy substitute if dark rum is unavailable.

For the Sweetness
Dark Brown Sugar Gives sweetness and contributes to the cake s dark color; use light brown sugar if necessary.
Light Brown Sugar Adds sweetness with slight caramel notes; granulated sugar can serve as an alternative.

For the Binding & Moisture
Unsalted Butter Ensures moisture and richness; margarine works in a pinch if butter isn t available.
Eggs Acts as a binder for the ingredients; applesauce or flaxseed mix can be used for egg-free options.

For the Flavor Enhancers
Citrus Zest (lime, orange, lemon) Enhances the cake s aroma and flavor; adjust based on personal preference.
Vanilla Extract Adds depth and an aromatic touch; almond extract can provide an extra hint of nuttiness.

For the Cake Structure
Plain Flour Essential for the cake s structure; use a gluten-free flour blend for those with gluten sensitivity.
Baking Powder Ensures leavening; always check for freshness to get a proper rise.

For the Spices
Ground Spices (allspice, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg) Delivers depth and warmth; adjust these spices based on taste preferences.

For Moisten and Enhance
Additional Rum/Port Mixture (for brushing) Enhances the cake s moisture and flavor; can be replaced with fruit juice for a non-alcoholic alternative.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare for a delicious baking adventure that results in a stunning Black Cake perfect for any festive occasion!

How to Make Black Cake

1. Combine Fruits: In a pan, bring dried currants, raisins, prunes, and port to a simmer. Stir and let simmer for about 30 minutes until the fruits plump up and soak in all that delicious port flavor.
2. Marinate Fruit: Once the fruits are softened, pour the mixture into a bowl and add dark rum, marinating it for at least 1 hour or even overnight for deeper flavor infusion. After marinating, blend the fruits into a smooth paste.
3. Prepare Browning: In a pan, heat dark brown sugar over medium heat until it turns smoky and amber in color; then, carefully add port, stirring until smooth and well blended.
4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 160 °C (140 °C fan/gas 3). While the oven heats, grease your cake tin with butter to prevent sticking.
5. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat unsalted butter and both sugars together until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. Gradually add eggs one at a time, mixing in the citrus zests for added fresh flavor.
6. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and ground spices. Slowly combine with the wet mixture, folding in your pureed fruit and the smoky brown sugar until no white streaks remain.
7. Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly. Bake for approximately 1 hour 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Soak Post-Bake: After baking, brush the warm cake with the remaining rum/port mixture, then cover it and allow it to rest for several days. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a lovely touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Black Cakes are ideal for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can easily prepare the fruit mixture and let it marinate for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. Additionally, the baked cake can be wrapped tightly and stored for up to 3 weeks at room temperature or frozen for longer storage. To maintain its rich moisture and taste, brush the warm cake with the rum/port mixture, then let it rest for several days before serving this allows the flavors to deepen. When you re ready to impress your guests, simply slice and serve, enjoying the sweet benefits of a well-prepped treat!

Black Cake Variations

Get ready to add your personal touch to this delightful black cake with these simple twists and swaps!

• Dried Fruit Swap: Experiment with different dried fruits like figs or apricots for a unique flavor profile. Each variation introduces a new layer of sweetness to the cake.
• Spices Shift: Replace the traditional spices with pumpkin pie spice for a warm, holiday-inspired twist. It ll give your cake a delightful autumn flair that s perfect for festive gatherings.
• Fruit Juice Brushing: For a non-alcoholic version, brush the cake with fruit juice instead of rum or port. This keeps the cake moist while ensuring everyone can enjoy it without alcohol.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to those with gluten sensitivities, making this cake accessible to more guests while still retaining its rich texture.
• Sweetness Level: Swap out dark brown sugar for coconut sugar for a less sweet, more caramel-like taste. It changes the flavor dynamics while keeping the deep color intact.
• Butter Alternative: If you want a dairy-free option, try using vegan margarine instead of unsalted butter. The cake s richness will remain, and it ll be a hit with dairy-free friends!
• Citrus Zing: Experiment with different citrus zests like grapefruit or tangerine for a refreshing twist that brightens the festive flavors of the cake.
• Dark Spirit Change: Substitute dark rum with spiced rum or even whiskey for an intriguing flavor update. Each spirit will offer its unique character, making every cake its own masterpiece.

Feel free to mix and match these variations for a black cake that reflects your unique taste and brings your holiday celebrations to life!

Expert Tips for Black Cake

• Soak Appropriately: Marinating the dried fruits in rum for a longer time deepens the flavor. A minimum of one hour is recommended, but overnight is best!
• Monitor Browning: While preparing browned sugar, watch closely to avoid burning it. You want a smoky flavor, not a charred taste that could ruin your black cake.
• Proper Resting: Allow the cake to sit for several days post-baking. This resting period is crucial for the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
• Testing for Doneness: Always test your cake with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it s ready; if not, give it a few more minutes.
• Customize with Fruits: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits. Adding figs or apricots can create a unique twist to your traditional black cake!

Embrace these tips to ensure your black cake turns out as indulgent and flavorful as it deserves to be!

Storage Tips for Black Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the black cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, tightly wrapped in plastic to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer to store it longer, you can refrigerate the cake wrapped in foil or an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, preserving its rich flavors.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the black cake by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months and still taste delightful upon thawing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let the cake come to room temperature or gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature, lightly covered, to revive its moistness.

What to Serve with Black Cake?

Indulging in black cake sets the stage for a memorable gathering filled with warmth and delightful flavors.

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of velvety whipped cream adds a lightness that beautifully balances the rich, dense cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast, as the coldness complements the cake s warmth perfectly.
• Fresh Fruits: Slices of fresh oranges or berries bring a refreshing zing, cutting through the cake s sweetness and enhancing the festive experience.
• Spiced Tea: Enjoy a cup of warm spiced tea to elevate the aromatic experience, matching the cake s rich flavors with cozy warmth.
• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle dark chocolate ganache over the cake for extra decadence it s a chocolate lover s dream that pairs exceptionally with the rum-soaked fruit.
• Citrus Sorbet: A scoop of tangy citrus sorbet refreshes the palate, creating a lively contrast to the dense, sweet cake, perfect for cleansing the taste buds.
• Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti infused with almonds provide a delightful textural contrast, making every bite of cake that much more enjoyable.
• Creamy Custard: Serve with warm vanilla custard for an indulgent twist that seeps into the cake, creating a rich, comforting dessert experience.

Creating the perfect pairing can turn your black cake into a show-stopping centerpiece at any festive gathering!

Black Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dried fruits for my black cake?
When selecting dried fruits for your black cake, look for plump and moist options. Currants, raisins, and prunes are traditional, but feel free to experiment with apricots and figs for added flavor. Avoid any with dark spots, as this may indicate they are past their prime.

How should I store my black cake after baking?
Store your black cake at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture. For longer storage, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze my black cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your black cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

What should I do if my black cake is too dry?
If your black cake turns out a bit dry, don t worry! You can brush it with a mixture of rum and port or even fruit juice to help restore some moisture. For future bakes, consider soaking the dried fruits longer before marinating or ensure not to overbake, remembering the exact timing is key.

Is this black cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
For gluten-sensitive individuals, you can substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, vegan options are available by using applesauce or a flaxseed mix instead of eggs. However, make sure to check for any allergies related to your chosen dried fruits and other ingredients in the recipe.

How long can I keep the black cake after it s baked?
You can enjoy your black cake for an extended period! It s best enjoyed after resting for several days, as flavors meld beautifully. Once stored correctly, it can last at room temperature for 3 days, in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, and even in the freezer for up to 3 months, all while maintaining its delightful taste.