Are you ready to indulge in a sweet and indulgent treat? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 decadent dark fruit cake recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a range of rich flavors and ingredients, from brandy-soaked fruits to dark chocolate and nuts, there’s something for everyone.
From classic recipes like the Classic Dark Fruit Cake with Brandy Soaked Fruits to more unique combinations like the Chocolate Infused Dark Fruit Cake with Cherries, these cakes are sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a special occasion dessert or just a treat to brighten up your day, we’ve got you covered.
So go ahead, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of decadent dark fruit cakes!
Classic Dark Fruit Cake with Brandy Soaked Fruits
Classic Dark Fruit Cake with Brandy Soaked Fruits: A rich and moist fruit cake infused with the deep flavors of dark chocolate and brandy-soaked fruits, perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup (120g) brandy-soaked mixed fruits (see note)
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar and brown sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add milk and cocoa powder; mix until well combined.
5. Stir in the flour mixture, then fold in the brandy-soaked fruits and nuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Note: To make brandy-soaked fruits, combine 1 cup of mixed dried fruits with 1/4 cup of brandy in a bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours before using.
Spiced Dark Fruit Cake with Molasses and Walnuts
This moist and flavorful fruit cake is perfect for the holiday season. The combination of dark fruit, rich molasses, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup mixed dark fruit (raisins, currants, and cranberries)
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Add spices, fruit, molasses, and walnuts; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and baking powder; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 to 3 hours
Chocolate Infused Dark Fruit Cake with Cherries
This moist and indulgent fruit cake is infused with the deep flavors of dark chocolate and plump cherries, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and chopped cherries.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the batter until well combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Dark Fruit Cake with Rum Glaze and Almonds
This indulgent fruit cake is packed with dark fruits, nuts, and spices, topped with a sweet and tangy rum glaze. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mixed dark fruits (cranberries, cherries, raisins)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– Rum glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. Stir in dark fruits and almonds.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before glazing with Rum Glaze (see below).
Rum Glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 2 tablespoons water
Combine ingredients in a bowl, whisking until smooth.
Moist Dark Fruit Cake with Dates and Pecans
Moist Dark Fruit Cake with Dates and Pecans: A rich and indulgent dessert perfect for special occasions or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, chopped dates, and chopped pecans. Mix well.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in dark brown sugar.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 2 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Dark Fruit Cake with Honey and Mixed Spices
A classic fruit cake recipe gets a twist with the addition of honey and mixed spices, creating a deep, complex flavor profile that’s perfect for special occasions or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, honey, butter, eggs, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
3. Fold in mixed dried fruits and nuts.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Eggless Dark Fruit Cake with Orange Zest
This eggless dark fruit cake is a delicious twist on the classic recipe, infused with the brightness of orange zest. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/4 cup orange zest
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, applesauce, oil, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the dried fruits and orange zest; stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the orange juice and mix until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Dark Fruit Cake with Coconut Sugar
This rich and decadent fruit cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year. Made with dark fruit, coconut sugar, and no refined sugars, it’s a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fruit cakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1 cup chopped prunes
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine dates, prunes, coconut sugar, applesauce, oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Dark Fruit Cake with Almond Flour
This recipe yields a rich and decadent fruit cake that’s perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift. With the use of almond flour, this cake is not only gluten-free but also packed with nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed dark fruit (such as cranberries, cherries, and raisins)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in mixed dark fruit.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dark Fruit Cake with Black Tea Soaked Fruits
This rich and decadent fruit cake is infused with the deep flavors of black tea-soaked fruits, creating a perfect blend of sweet and savory notes. Perfect for special occasions or as a holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1 cup black tea-soaked fruits (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in dried fruits and black tea-soaked fruits.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Note: To soak the fruits, combine 1 cup mixed dried fruits with 1/4 cup strong brewed black tea in a bowl. Let sit for at least 2 hours or overnight before using in recipe.
Dark Fruit Cake with Port Wine and Figs
This classic fruit cake recipe is elevated by the addition of port wine and sweet caramelized figs, creating a decadent dessert perfect for special occasions or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup (120ml) port wine
– 1 cup (120g) chopped dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped fresh figs
– Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Stir in port wine, dried fruit, and chopped figs.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 2 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Dark Fruit Cake with Cinnamon and Allspice
This moist and flavorful fruit cake is perfect for the holiday season, with a blend of dark fruits, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness. Make it ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups mixed dark fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in mixed fruit, cinnamon, allspice, and salt.
4. Gradually add flour to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Dark Fruit Cake with Ginger and Dark Chocolate
This decadent fruit cake is packed with dried fruits, crystallized ginger, and dark chocolate chunks, making it a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, cinnamon, and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Stir in dried fruits, crystallized ginger, and dark chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Dark Fruit Cake with Prunes and Bourbon
This dense and moist fruit cake is infused with the deep flavors of dark fruit, prunes, and a hint of bourbon. Perfect for special occasions or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) prunes, chopped
– 1 cup (120g) mixed dried fruit (cranberries, cherries, raisins)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (30ml) bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in prunes, dried fruit, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add bourbon whiskey and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 2 hours or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Dark Fruit Cake with Maple Syrup and Hazelnuts
Moist and flavorful, this dark fruit cake is elevated by the deep sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted hazelnuts. Perfect for special occasions or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup (120ml) maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped dried fruit (such as cranberries, cherries, and raisins)
– 1/4 cup (30g) toasted hazelnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coffee, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped dried fruit and toasted hazelnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Dark Fruit Cake with Espresso and Raisins
Elevate your holiday baking with this indulgent dark fruit cake, infused with the deep flavors of espresso and sweet-tart raisins. Perfect for gift-giving or serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup strong brewed espresso, cooled
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add espresso, raisins, walnuts (if using), eggs, and vanilla extract; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 2 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Dark Fruit Cake with Cardamom and Pistachios
This dark fruit cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the warmth of cardamom and crunch of pistachios. Perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup brandy or dark rum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in mixed dried fruits, cardamom, and pistachios.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Dark Fruit Cake with Vanilla Bean and Cranberries
This moist and flavorful fruit cake is perfect for the holiday season. With the combination of dark chocolate, sweet vanilla bean, and tart cranberries, it’s a treat that will delight your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (120g) dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup (60g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cranberries and dark chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the richness of dark fruit cakes! This collection of 18 decadent recipes combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate, fruit, and spices with luxurious ingredients like brandy-soaked fruits, rum glaze, and coconut sugar. From classic combinations to innovative twists, these moist and flavorful cakes are perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings. With options ranging from eggless and vegan to gluten-free and traditional, there’s something for every taste and dietary need. Treat yourself and loved ones to a slice of indulgence with these dark fruit cake recipes!