Indulge in the rich flavors of winter with these 18 decadent dark fruit cakes recipes that will leave you wanting more. From classic combinations like chocolate and cherry to creative twists like spiced rum and raisin, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Rich and moist, these cakes are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during the holiday season. And with a range of flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find one that becomes a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple yet impressive dessert to serve at your next gathering, these dark fruit cakes are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of decadent dark fruit cakes and share our top 18 recipes with you. From classic chocolate and cherry to creative twists like spiced rum and raisin, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Rich Chocolate and Cherry Fruit Cake
Rich Chocolate and Cherry Fruit Cake Recipe
Treat your loved ones with this decadent fruit cake, packed with the sweetness of cherries and the richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) chopped cherries, drained and pitted
– 1 cup (60g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease 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 flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Fold in cherries and chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Spiced Rum and Raisin Dark Cake
Moist and decadent, this rich dark cake is infused with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) golden raisins
– 1/4 cup (30g) spiced rum syrup (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, butter, eggs, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Stir in raisins and rum syrup until well combined.
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. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Note: Spiced rum syrup can be made by mixing equal parts dark rum, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and let cook for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Black Forest Inspired Fruit Cake
This moist and flavorful fruit cake is inspired by the classic Black Forest region of Germany, known for its rich cherry culture. This cake combines sweet cherries with dark chocolate and crunchy nuts to create a decadent dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or hazelnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cherries, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add egg, vanilla extract, and flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in dark chocolate chips and nuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Molasses and Fig Christmas Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect treat for the holiday season, with the sweetness of figs and molasses balanced by the warmth of spices. Perfect for serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped fresh figs
– 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by figs, molasses, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brandy Soaked Mixed Fruit Cake
A classic dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings, this brandy-soaked mixed fruit cake is a moist and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup brandy
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 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 mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in mixed dried fruit.
5. Pour in brandy and mix until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake for 2-1/2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Dark Chocolate and Apricot Delight
Experience the perfect harmony of rich dark chocolate and sweet apricots in this delightful treat. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings with a unique flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (60g) dried apricots, chopped
– 1 tablespoon (15g) honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped apricots, honey, and salt.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Cut into desired shapes and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
Walnut and Date Spiced Fruit Cake
A moist and flavorful fruit cake infused with the warmth of spices, the sweetness of dates, and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 cup brandy or other liquor (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 bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add chopped walnuts, dates, and orange zest; mix until just combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 2 hours or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Plum and Almond Dark Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of plums with the nutty taste of almonds, perfect for a special occasion or as a treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) chopped fresh plums
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped plums and sliced almonds. Pour batter into prepared dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange Zest and Cranberry Fruit Cake
This moist and flavorful fruit cake is perfect for any occasion. The combination of orange zest, cranberries, and spices creates a delightful taste experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in orange zest.
4. Add flour mixture, cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt (if using). Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Fig and Walnut Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of caramelized figs with the earthy taste of walnuts, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, egg, and yogurt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in caramelized figs and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Note: To caramelize figs, cook 1 cup of chopped dried figs in a skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon water, stirring frequently, until golden brown and sticky.
Spiced Apple and Raisin Dark Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of apples and raisins, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, chopped apples, raisins, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate and Blueberry Fruit Cake
A rich and decadent fruit cake that combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate with the sweetness of blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into the dry ingredients until just combined.
7. Gently fold in blueberries.
8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
9. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Ginger and Prune Rich Fruit Cake
This moist and flavorful fruit cake is infused with the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of prunes, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a special occasion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped prunes
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 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 275°F (135°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
3. Stir in prunes, ginger, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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 on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Cherry and Almond Glazed Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy cherry and almond glazed cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 cup cherry jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and butter until light and fluffy. Add milk and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before glazing.
Glaze:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cherry jam and sliced almonds.
2. Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rum and Pineapple Dark Fruit Cake
Moist and flavorful, this Rum and Pineapple Dark Fruit Cake is perfect for special occasions or as a unique gift. The combination of dark fruitcake spices, pineapple juice, and rum creates a rich and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup dark rum (optional)
– 1 cup chopped dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or Bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add pineapple juice and rum (if using); mix well.
5. Fold in dried fruit.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Date and Pecan Spiced Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a sweet addition to your holiday gatherings. The combination of chopped dates, toasted pecans, and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1/2 cup toasted pecans
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, dates, pecans, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Blackberry and Vanilla Dark Cake
This rich and indulgent cake is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of juicy blackberries, creamy vanilla, and dark chocolate creates a truly unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in blackberries and chocolate chips.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Pear and Walnut Fruit Cake
Warm up with a slice of this aromatic fruit cake, packed with the sweetness of pears and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts
– 1 ripe pear, diced (about 1 cup)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add chopped walnuts, diced pear, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of winter with these 18 decadent dark fruit cakes. From classic combinations like chocolate and cherry to innovative pairings like ginger and prune, there’s a recipe for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a simple afternoon treat or a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table, this collection has something for everyone. With flavors ranging from spiced rum to caramelized figs, these dark fruit cakes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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