If you’re looking for a cake that’s rich, moist, and packed with flavor, then you need to try Guyanese black cake. This traditional treat is a staple in Guyanese cuisine, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why. Made with a blend of dark rum, spices, and dried fruits, this cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll give you step-by-step instructions on how to make Guyanese black cake. We’ll also provide you with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make Guyanese black cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound raisins
- 1 pound currants
- 1 pound prunes
- 1 pound mixed peel
- 1 pound cherries
- 1 pound brown sugar
- 1 pound flour
- 1 pound butter
- 12 eggs
- 1/2 pint dark rum
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon allspice
Instructions
Now that you have all of your ingredients, it’s time to start baking! Here’s how to make Guyanese black cake:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and spices together.
- Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the rum.
- Add the dried fruits and mix until everything is well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased and lined baking pan.
- Bake for 2-3 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional information for one serving of Guyanese black cake:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 72g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 50g
- Sodium: 150mg
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for Guyanese black cake is 2-3 hours.
Equipment
To make Guyanese black cake, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Sifter
- Measuring cups and spoons
Serving Suggestions
Guyanese black cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
Variations
If you want to change things up a bit, here are a few variations you can try:
- Replace the dark rum with brandy or whisky.
- Use different dried fruits, such as apricots, figs, or dates.
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
- Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
Substitutions
If you don’t have all of the ingredients for Guyanese black cake, here are a few substitutions you can make:
- Use white sugar instead of brown sugar.
- Use regular flour instead of cake flour.
- Use any type of dried fruit you have on hand.
- If you don’t have dark rum, you can use white rum or even apple juice.
Storage
Guyanese black cake can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to store it for longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a month. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect Guyanese black cake:
- Soak the dried fruits in rum for at least a day before making the cake. This will help them absorb the flavor and keep the cake moist.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Bake the cake low and slow to avoid burning the edges.
Notes
Guyanese black cake is a labor of love. It takes time and effort to make, but the end result is worth it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few frequently asked questions about Guyanese black cake:
What is Guyanese black cake?
Guyanese black cake is a rich, moist cake made with a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and dark rum. It’s a traditional dessert in Guyanese cuisine.
What’s the best way to store Guyanese black cake?
You can store Guyanese black cake at room temperature for up to a week, in the refrigerator for up to a month, or in the freezer for up to three months.
Can I make Guyanese black cake without alcohol?
Yes, you can make Guyanese black cake without alcohol. Simply substitute the rum with apple juice or another type of fruit juice.
What’s the best way to serve Guyanese black cake?
Guyanese black cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.
Guyanese black cake is a true masterpiece of Caribbean cuisine. It’s rich, moist, and packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that will impress your friends and family, then this is the recipe for you. Follow our step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of heaven in no time.
Remember, making Guyanese black cake takes time and effort, but the end result is worth it. So, go ahead and give it a try. We promise you won’t be disappointed!