Dark Fruit Cake Recipe

Step into a world of rich, festive flavors with this classic Dark Fruit Cake recipe, a treasured gem from my collection of Newfoundland fundraising cookbooks from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Dark fruit cake has long been a holiday staple in Newfoundland, cherished for its deep, robust flavors and hearty texture.

This recipe is a true celebration of traditional Christmas baking, blending a medley of dried fruits, spices and rum into a dense, flavorful cake.

As you bake this Dark Fruit Cake, you’re not just making a dessert; you’re reviving a piece of Newfoundland’s culinary history. This cake’s complex flavors and moist texture make it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Newfoundland treats or new to its delights, this Dark Fruit Cake will surely be a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Dark Fruit Cake Recipe:

• 2 cups brown sugar
• 2 cups hot water
• 1/2 cup butter
• 3/4 cup dates, chopped
• 1 box raisins
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/2 tsp mace
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 beaten egg
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1 cup chopped cherries
• 1 cup mixed fruit
• 1 cap full rum or brandy
• 1 cap full lemon almond extract
• 1 cap full vanilla

In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, hot water, butter, chopped dates, raisins, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, mace, nutmeg.

Bring to boil for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat; let cool.

Add egg, baking soda, flour, cherries, mixed fruit, rum, lemon almond extract and vanilla.

Combine together.

Place in 9- or 10-inch greased tube pan at 300F for 2 hours.

“This is the same recipe my mother had thank you so much for sharing. I am definitely making this one thanks.” Karen

Newfoundland Christmas Fact: Community Feasts

Community feasts were a significant part of Christmas celebrations in old Newfoundland. Villages and towns organized large gatherings, where everyone contributed food and drink. These feasts featured traditional dishes like roast meat, fish, vegetables, and desserts. The entire community came together to share a meal, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company. These feasts promoted unity and strengthened social bonds, making the holiday season a time of joy and togetherness.