Jamaican Black Cake Recipe (Christmas Pudding)

One of my fondest childhood memories of Christmas is the aroma of spices, rum, and molasses wafting through the house as my family baked Jamaican Black Cake. This rich and decadent dessert, also known as Christmas Pudding, is a staple in Jamaican households during the holiday season. Its deep flavors, soaked fruits, and moist texture make it unforgettable. But this cake is more than just a treat—it's a piece of Jamaican history. Black Cake, derived from British plum pudding, was adapted by enslaved Africans on the island who infused it with their creativity and the bold flavors of rum and tropical fruits. Over time, it evolved into the iconic holiday dessert we know today. Its preparation is a labor of love, often starting months in advance with the soaking of fruits—a tradition symbolizing patience and the spirit of celebration. This recipe is my homage to those childhood memories and the legacy of Jamaican culinary tradition. Let’s dive in and create your very own slice of history.

Ingredients
For the Fruit Mixture:

• ½ cup prunes, pitted
• 2 cups raisins
• ¼ cup dates, pitted
• ¼ cup apricots
• ½ cup cherries
• 1 tablespoon orange rinds
• 1 cup Jamaican white rum or dark spiced rum 
• 1 cup port wine

For the Cake Batter:

• 6 oz all-purpose flour
• 6 oz bread crumbs
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground allspice
• ⅛ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ lb salted butter, softened (2 sticks)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 6 eggs
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 2 tsp lime juice
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2 tbsp dark molasses or browning (caramelized sugar syrup)

For Soaking the Cake:

• ¼ cup rum
• ¼ cup port wine

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:

• Combine prunes, raisins, dates, apricots, orange peel, and cherries in a glass jar.
• Pour in the rum and port wine to completely cover the fruit.
• Seal the jar with a tight-fitting metal lid and let the mixture soak for at least 30 days, or up to a year. Check occasionally and top up with more rum and wine to keep the fruits submerged.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper or use nonstick cake pans.
• Blend the soaked fruit mixture in a blender or food processor until coarsely chopped.
• Whisk together the flour, bread crumbs, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt in a medium bowl.
• Cream the butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Stir in the lime zest, vanilla extract, almond extract, lime juice, and molasses (or browning).
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, and beat well to incorporate fully.
• Fold in the fruit mixture, distributing it evenly. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.

3. Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Cover with parchment paper and foil.
• Place a pan of water on the lower rack of the oven to create steam.
• Bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Soak the Cake:

• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• Poke several holes in the tops with a skewer and spoon the rum and wine mixture over the cakes.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additional rum and wine can be added every few days.

​Serving and Tips

Serving:
Jamaican Black Cake is best enjoyed after it has aged and absorbed the soaking liquids, making it moist and flavorful. Traditionally served at Christmas and weddings, it pairs beautifully with a warm drink or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips:

• Texture: The batter should be thick enough for a spoon to stand upright in it.
• Soaking Time: For the richest flavor, soak the fruits for several months.
• Storage: Keep the cake in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended freshness.
• Gluten-Free AdaptationFor a gluten-free Jamaican Black Cake, simply swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free bread crumbs. These substitutions will maintain the cake's rich texture and flavor, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary preferences. Just ensure your other ingredients, like molasses or browning, are also labeled gluten-free for a completely safe treat!
  
  ​A Taste of Jamaica
  

Every bite of Jamaican Black Cake carries the essence of Christmas and the legacy of Jamaica's rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re continuing a cherished family tradition or trying it for the first time, this cake will surely become a festive favorite in your home. Enjoy!