The Rich Flavors of Dark Old English Fruitcake

Description:

Dark Old English Fruitcake is a deeply flavorful and moist cake that has been a holiday classic for centuries. Infused with rich spices, dark rum, and packed with dried fruits like raisins, currants, and sultanas, this fruitcake is the epitome of festive indulgence. Its dark color comes from the use of molasses and dark brown sugar, while the alcohol adds a robust depth of flavor. Perfect for long celebrations, it can be made weeks in advance, as the flavors only get better with time.

Origin:

Fruitcake has been a traditional English dessert for centuries, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. The “dark” version of fruitcake is particularly rich, using dark brown sugar, molasses, and alcohol to create a deep, complex flavor profile. The practice of soaking fruitcakes in alcohol before serving helps preserve them and enhance the flavors, a practice dating back to medieval times.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (240g) mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dark rum (or brandy, or orange juice for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (50g) chopped candied ginger
• 1/2 cup (80g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup (70g) chopped crystallized fruit (optional)
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup (75g) dark chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds (optional)

For Soaking and Glaze (Optional):

• 1/4 cup (60ml) dark rum (or brandy)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apricot jam (for glazing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Fruit:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the dried fruit, dark rum (or other alcohol), and water. Stir to mix and let sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This step helps to rehydrate the fruit and infuse it with flavor.

Make the Cake Batter:

2. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square pan with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and salt.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the soaked fruit mixture, and mix until smooth.
7. Stir in the orange and lemon zest, chopped candied ginger, nuts, and chocolate chips (if using).

Bake the Cake:

8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake starts to brown too much on top, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Soak and Glaze (Optional):

11. Once the cake has cooled, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes in the top. Drizzle with the remaining dark rum (or brandy) to soak the cake.
12. If desired, gently heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan until it becomes liquid, then brush it over the top of the cake for a glossy finish.

Tips for Success:

• Let the fruitcake sit for a few days before serving to allow the flavors to deepen and develop.
• You can “feed” the fruitcake with additional rum or brandy every few days if you prefer a boozier cake.
• Store the fruitcake in an airtight container at room temperature or wrap it in parchment paper and foil for longer storage. It keeps well for several weeks or even months.

Recommendations:

• Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive treat.
• Perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or as a gift for loved ones.

Nutrition (per slice, approximate for 12 servings):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 150mg

This Dark Old English Fruitcake is a rich, indulgent dessert with deep flavors, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to enjoy a classic and festive treat!