Crafted with care by Anna Sophie, your guide to flavorful and healthy cooking

Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

A freshly baked Caribbean Festival Rum Cake with a golden-brown, moist texture, drizzled with a rich rum glaze. A slice is cut out, revealing its soft, buttery interior, garnished with toasted coconut and pecans.

Have you ever tasted a cake so rich, moist, and infused with warmth that it instantly transports you to a tropical paradise? That’s exactly what this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake delivers—an indulgent, buttery delight soaked in spiced rum and bursting with the irresistible flavors of the islands.

This traditional Caribbean dessert isn’t just a cake; it’s a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, a festive occasion, or simply to treat yourself, this cake brings the essence of Caribbean culture straight to your kitchen. The combination of aromatic spices, dark rum, and caramelized richness creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.

If you love classic, time-honored recipes with a twist of indulgence, you’re in for a treat. Whether served with whipped cream, toasted coconut, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Ready to bring a taste of the islands to your home? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Key Benefits of Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

A freshly baked Caribbean Festival Rum Cake on a wooden table, drizzled with rum glaze, with tropical spices and a bottle of dark rum in the background.

What makes Caribbean Festival Rum Cake so special? Beyond its irresistibly moist, buttery texture and deep rum-infused flavor, this cake carries a rich tradition that brings people together in celebration and joy. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or a Caribbean-themed party, this cake is always the star of the table. Here’s why you’ll love making (and eating) this iconic dessert:

1. A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

  • Infused with spiced rum, this cake boasts deep, caramelized richness balanced by warm Caribbean spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
  • The addition of golden raisins, pecans, or toasted coconut enhances both texture and taste.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

  • Whether served at a Christmas feast, a summer festival, or a cozy weekend brunch, this cake adapts beautifully.
  • It’s a great make-ahead dessert, as the flavors intensify over time.

3. Unbelievably Moist & Buttery

  • Thanks to the rum soak, this cake remains soft, tender, and rich, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
  • The buttery base ensures a perfect balance of fluffiness and density.

4. A Foolproof Recipe with Simple Ingredients

  • Uses everyday pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter.
  • The process is straightforward, even for beginner bakers.

5. Customizable & Versatile

  • Prefer a non-alcoholic version? Simply swap the rum for orange juice, almond extract, or coconut milk for a unique twist.
  • Love extra crunch? Add chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture.

6. A Slice of the Caribbean in Every Bite

  • This cake isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. With each forkful, you’ll taste the soulful, tropical flavors that make Caribbean cuisine so special.
  • It’s a dessert that brings warmth, nostalgia, and togetherness, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Why You Need to Try This Rum Cake Today

If you’re looking for a show-stopping, decadent dessert that’s as fun to bake as it is to eat, this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is the perfect choice. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on making this iconic treat that’s guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients for Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

 Ingredients for a Caribbean Festival Rum Cake, including flour, sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, dark rum, and golden raisins soaking in rum.

Before we dive into baking, let’s gather everything you need to make this rich, buttery, and irresistibly moist Caribbean Festival Rum Cake. Every ingredient plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and aroma, so let’s break it down step by step.

Dry Ingredients: The Foundation of the Cake

These dry ingredients create the perfect soft yet slightly dense texture that soaks up all the delicious rum glaze:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cake light.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.
  • ½ cup brown sugar – Enhances depth with a rich, molasses-like flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and a touch of spice.
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – A classic Caribbean spice that deepens the aroma.

Wet Ingredients: Bringing Moisture & Flavor

These ingredients ensure your cake is buttery, moist, and infused with the best Caribbean flavors:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – The key to a rich and tender crumb.
  • 4 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and create a soft texture.
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract – Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
  • ½ cup whole milk – Keeps the cake moist and balances the richness.
  • ½ cup dark rum – The star ingredient! Infuses the cake with its signature Caribbean flavor.

Optional Add-Ins: Customize Your Cake

Want to elevate your Caribbean rum cake with extra texture and flavor? Here are some delicious additions:

  • ½ cup golden raisins – Soaked in rum for extra moisture and sweetness.
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts – Adds crunch and nutty goodness.
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut – Brings in a tropical twist.
  • Zest of 1 orange – A fresh citrusy note that brightens the flavors.

For the Rum Glaze: The Secret to That Luscious Finish

No authentic Caribbean rum cake is complete without a rich, buttery rum glaze that soaks into every bite:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter – Helps create a silky-smooth glaze.
  • ¼ cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar for a perfect consistency.
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar – Caramelizes into a luscious syrup.
  • ¼ cup dark rum – Enhances the deep, boozy flavor of the cake.
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the glaze with warmth.

Pro Tip: Choosing the Best Rum for Your Cake

Not all rums are created equal! For the best flavor, use:
Dark rum – Rich and slightly smoky for a deep, caramelized taste.
Spiced rum – Adds extra notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Coconut rum – A lighter, sweeter option with tropical vibes.

For an alcohol-free version, substitute the rum with:

  • Orange juice or apple cider for a fruity touch.
  • Coconut milk for a tropical, creamy alternative.

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking! In the next section, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process to ensure your rum cake turns out fluffy, golden, and absolutely delicious. Let’s get started! 🎂✨

Step-by-Step Instructions for Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

Now that we’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to bring this rich, buttery, and flavorful Caribbean Festival Rum Cake to life! Follow these simple steps to ensure a perfectly moist, golden, and rum-infused delight.

A baker’s hands mixing rich cake batter for a Caribbean Festival Rum Cake, with a prepared bundt pan beside it.

🔹 Step 1: Prep Your Baking Essentials

Before you start mixing, let’s get everything ready:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) – This ensures even baking and prevents the cake from drying out.
Grease a bundt pan generously with butter and dust it with flour – This helps the cake release easily once baked. You can also use a non-stick baking spray.
If using raisins, soak them in a small bowl with 2 tablespoons of rum – This softens them and enhances their flavor.

🔹 Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

The secret to a perfectly fluffy and tender rum cake lies in the mixing process. Follow these steps for a foolproof batter:

1️⃣ Cream the butter and sugars – In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step helps create a soft, moist texture.

2️⃣ Incorporate the eggs – Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create a smooth and airy batter.

3️⃣ Add the vanilla and rum – Stir in vanilla extract and dark rum, blending well to distribute the flavors evenly.

4️⃣ Combine the dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

5️⃣ Alternate dry and wet ingredients – Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, stirring gently after each addition. This keeps the batter light and prevents over-mixing.

6️⃣ Fold in optional add-ins – If using rum-soaked raisins, chopped pecans, or shredded coconut, gently fold them into the batter for added texture and flavor.

🔹 Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2️⃣ Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
3️⃣ Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4️⃣ Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.

🔹 Step 4: Prepare the Rum Glaze

While the cake cools, let’s make the rich, buttery rum glaze that takes this cake to the next level.

1️⃣ Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Stir in water and sugar, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
3️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in the rum and vanilla extract.

For a stronger rum flavor, add an extra tablespoon of rum after removing the glaze from heat.
For a milder version, reduce the rum and add a splash of orange juice.

🔹 Step 5: Soak the Cake in the Glaze

1️⃣ Poke small holes all over the cake using a skewer or fork – This allows the glaze to seep in for extra moisture and flavor.
2️⃣ Slowly drizzle the warm glaze over the cake, letting it soak in gradually. You can do this in layers, allowing each layer to absorb before adding more.
3️⃣ Let the cake sit for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

🔹 Step 6: Time to Serve & Enjoy!

Once the cake has absorbed the glaze, it’s time to slice and indulge. Serve it as is, or elevate it with:

🍨 A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
🥥 Toasted coconut flakes for extra tropical vibes.
🍯 A drizzle of caramel sauce for added richness.
A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea for the perfect pairing.

🎉 Final Tips for Success

For the best flavor, let the cake sit overnight – The rum and spices deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Store leftovers in an airtight container – This cake stays moist for days! You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Want to make it alcohol-free? Swap the rum for orange juice or almond extract for a family-friendly version.

Now that your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is baked to perfection, let’s explore some pro tips and variations to make it uniquely yours! 🍰✨

Pro Tips and Variations for the Best Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

A freshly baked Caribbean Festival Rum Cake being brushed with a warm, buttery rum glaze as it soaks into the cake.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s take your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake to the next level with some expert tips, creative variations, and foolproof baking techniques. These simple tweaks will help you customize your cake to match your taste preferences while ensuring a moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured dessert every time.

Pro Tips for a Perfectly Moist & Flavorful Cake

Use High-Quality Rum
The rum is the star ingredient, so choose wisely! Dark rum or spiced rum works best for a deep, rich flavor. Brands like Myers’s Rum, Captain Morgan, or Mount Gay are popular choices. If you prefer a lighter taste, coconut rum adds a sweet tropical twist.

Let the Cake Rest for Maximum Flavor
Rum cake tastes even better the next day! The flavors intensify as the cake absorbs the buttery rum glaze, making it extra moist and rich. If you can, let it sit overnight before slicing.

Don’t Overmix the Batter
To keep the cake soft and tender, mix until just combined. Overmixing develops too much gluten, leading to a dense or tough cake.

Ensure a Perfect Release from the Pan

  • Always grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly.
  • Let the cake cool for at least 10-15 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack.
  • Run a knife gently along the edges if needed to loosen the cake.

Poke Holes for Better Absorption
Using a toothpick, skewer, or fork, poke small holes all over the cake before adding the rum glaze. This allows the rich, buttery syrup to seep in and keep every bite moist and flavorful.

Adjust the Rum Intensity to Your Liking

  • For a boozier cake, add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of rum to the glaze after removing it from the heat.
  • For a milder version, reduce the rum in the glaze and replace some with orange juice or apple cider.

Creative Variations to Try

Love to experiment? Here are some fun variations to make this classic rum cake uniquely yours!

Citrus Infused Caribbean Rum Cake

  • Add zest from an orange or lemon to the batter for a fresh, citrusy note.
  • Swap the vanilla extract with orange or coconut extract for extra brightness.

Tropical Coconut Rum Cake

  • Use coconut rum for a lighter, sweeter island vibe.
  • Fold ½ cup shredded coconut into the batter.
  • Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.

Chocolate Swirl Rum Cake

  • Melt ½ cup of dark chocolate and swirl it into the batter before baking.
  • Drizzle with a dark chocolate rum glaze instead of the classic glaze.

Nutty Crunch Rum Cake

  • Stir ½ cup of chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts into the batter.
  • Sprinkle extra nuts on top before pouring the glaze for a crunchy caramelized topping.

Pineapple-Caribbean Rum Cake

  • Add ½ cup of crushed pineapple to the batter for a juicy, tropical touch.
  • Top with pineapple rings caramelized in brown sugar and rum for an island-inspired presentation.

How to Make a Non-Alcoholic Rum Cake

If you want to enjoy this cake without alcohol, here’s how to keep the signature rich flavor:

Replace the rum with:

  • Orange juice + vanilla extract (for a fruity twist)
  • Pineapple juice + coconut milk (for a tropical taste)
  • Apple cider or almond extract (for a warm, spiced alternative)

For the glaze, swap rum for:

  • A mix of butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract
  • A simple honey or maple syrup drizzle

This way, you can still enjoy a moist, flavorful cake while keeping it family-friendly!

🔄 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Storing the Cake

  • Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • If refrigerated, warm slices for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to bring back the soft texture.

Freezing for Later

  • Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before serving.

Make-Ahead Tip
Since this cake tastes even better the next day, it’s perfect for making ahead for special occasions. Bake it a day or two before your event, and let the flavors develop beautifully!

Final Thoughts on Customizing Your Caribbean Rum Cake

The best part about this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is how versatile it is! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with fun flavors and textures, this cake is guaranteed to be a show-stopping dessert.

Now that you’ve got all the pro tips and creative twists, let’s move on to the best ways to serve this indulgent cake for the ultimate island-inspired experience! 🍰✨

Serving Suggestions for Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

A slice of Caribbean Festival Rum Cake served with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, and tropical fruits on a festive table.

Your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is now baked, soaked in its luscious rum glaze, and ready to be served! Whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting treat at home or presenting it as the centerpiece at a special gathering, the right pairings and presentation can elevate this cake even further. Here are some delicious ways to serve and enjoy this moist, buttery, and flavor-packed dessert.

Best Ways to Serve Caribbean Rum Cake

Classic & Simple – Serve a warm slice on its own and let the rich, caramelized rum flavor shine. No need for extra toppings—this cake is already indulgent on its own!

With Whipped Cream – A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake. For extra flavor, try spiced whipped cream with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream – The warm, buttery cake paired with cold, creamy ice cream creates an irresistible contrast. Some great choices:

  • Vanilla bean ice cream for a classic pairing.
  • Coconut ice cream for a tropical twist.
  • Butter pecan ice cream for an extra nutty flavor.

Drizzled with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce – Enhance the richness by adding a drizzle of homemade caramel, dark chocolate sauce, or a rum-infused glaze for extra decadence.

With Toasted Coconut or Nuts – Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor. This gives the cake a beautiful finish and a satisfying crunch.

With Fresh Fruits – The deep, spiced flavors of the cake pair beautifully with tropical fruits like:

  • Fresh pineapple slices
  • Juicy mango cubes
  • Sliced bananas
  • Sweet papaya or passionfruit

Perfect Drink Pairings

Pair your Caribbean rum cake with the right drink to complement its flavors:

🍵 Coffee or Spiced Tea – A strong, bold cup of coffee or a fragrant chai tea balances the sweetness of the cake.

🥃 Dark Rum or Rum Cocktails – If you enjoy a little extra boozy indulgence, pair a slice with a glass of aged dark rum, a Caribbean rum punch, or even a hot buttered rum cocktail.

🥛 Warm Milk or Horchata – For a comforting, non-alcoholic pairing, a glass of warm spiced milk or horchata complements the cake’s rich, cinnamon-infused flavors.

🍍 Fresh Tropical Juice – If serving at brunch, pair the cake with a pineapple-mango smoothie, guava juice, or fresh orange juice for a bright and refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Serve at Gatherings

Planning to serve this cake at a Caribbean festival, family party, or holiday gathering? Here are some fun and festive serving ideas:

Mini Rum Cakes – Bake the batter in mini bundt pans or cupcake tins for bite-sized servings. Perfect for parties and easy to grab!

Layered Dessert Parfaits – Crumble slices of rum cake and layer them with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and fresh fruit in a glass for a stunning dessert parfait.

Rum Cake Truffles – Roll crumbled rum cake into small balls, coat them in melted chocolate, and chill for delicious rum-infused cake truffles.

Grilled Rum Cake – For a unique twist, lightly grill slices of the cake for 30 seconds on each side and serve warm with a scoop of coconut ice cream. The slight caramelization intensifies the flavors!

Final Thoughts on Enjoying This Caribbean Classic

The best thing about Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is that it’s versatile, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it as a simple slice with coffee or get creative with tropical pairings, this cake never fails to bring warmth, flavor, and a taste of the islands to every occasion.

Now that you know how to serve it in the most delicious ways, let’s wrap things up in the next section with some final thoughts and FAQs to help you bake this cake with confidence! 🎂✨

Conclusion: Bringing the Joy of Caribbean Festival Rum Cake to Your Table

A sliced Caribbean Festival Rum Cake on a cake stand, served with coffee in a cozy kitchen setting.

Baking a Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is more than just following a recipe—it’s about embracing the warmth, tradition, and indulgence that make this cake so special. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or just to treat yourself, this cake has a way of turning any moment into something extraordinary.

The magic of this recipe lies in its moist, buttery texture, deep rum-infused flavor, and warm spices that come together in every bite. By following the pro tips, creative variations, and serving suggestions, you now have all the tools to make this cake your own. Whether you go for a classic version, a coconut twist, or a citrus-infused delight, one thing is certain—this cake is guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love Making This Cake Again and Again

It gets even better over time! The rum-soaked texture deepens in flavor, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert.
It’s easy to customize! From tropical fruit additions to nutty toppings, you can make it uniquely yours.
It’s a taste of the Caribbean in every bite! With its warm spices, buttery richness, and a hint of rum, it transports you straight to island paradise.

📝 Final Baking Reminders

  • Give it time to rest – Letting the cake sit overnight enhances the flavors.
  • Don’t skip the glaze – It’s the key to the cake’s signature moisture and richness.
  • Store it properly – Keep it airtight to maintain its fresh, moist texture for days.

Baking is all about creativity, patience, and a little bit of love and this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is a delicious way to celebrate those things. So gather your ingredients, turn on some island music, and let the joy of baking take over. Your kitchen is about to be filled with the irresistible aroma of Caribbean tradition and warmth!

Now, let’s wrap up with some frequently asked questions to ensure your baking experience is smooth and stress-free! 🎂✨

Craving more indulgent desserts? Try our rich and velvety Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake for the perfect blend of deep cocoa flavor and creamy decadence!


FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

Got questions about making the perfect Caribbean Festival Rum Cake? You’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions to help you bake with confidence and get the best results every time.


📝 Baking & Preparation FAQs

Can I make this cake without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can replace the rum with orange juice, apple cider, or coconut milk for a delicious, non-alcoholic version. You’ll still get rich flavor without the alcohol content.

What type of rum is best for this cake?

For authentic Caribbean flavor, use:
Dark rum – Rich, deep caramel notes (e.g., Myers’s, Mount Gay)
Spiced rum – Warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon and vanilla (e.g., Captain Morgan, Kraken)
Coconut rum – A tropical twist with lighter sweetness (e.g., Malibu)

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the bundt pan?

✔ Grease the pan thoroughly with butter and dust it with flour.
✔ Use a non-stick spray with flour for extra security.
✔ Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack.

How do I make my cake extra moist?

Don’t overbake – Check at the 50-minute mark to avoid dryness.
Use room-temperature ingredients – This helps everything blend smoothly for a tender crumb.
Let the glaze soak in slowly – Poke holes in the cake and pour it in layers, allowing absorption between pours.


🎂 Storage & Shelf Life FAQs

How long does Caribbean rum cake last?

Stored properly, this cake stays moist and delicious for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I freeze rum cake?

Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Does rum cake need to be refrigerated?

Not necessarily! If you’re eating it within a few days, keep it at room temperature in an airtight container. If storing for longer, refrigerate it to preserve freshness.

🍰 Flavor & Customization FAQs

Can I add nuts or fruits to the cake?

Absolutely! Some delicious mix-in ideas:
Chopped pecans or walnuts – For a nutty crunch.
Golden raisins soaked in rum – Adds extra moisture and sweetness.
Shredded coconut – For a tropical touch.

How can I make this cake even richer?

✔ Add a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra moisture.
✔ Use brown butter instead of regular butter for a deeper caramel-like flavor.
✔ Replace some of the milk with evaporated milk for richness.

Can I make mini rum cakes instead?

Yes! Simply divide the batter into mini bundt pans or muffin tins and bake for about 20-25 minutes. They’re perfect for parties and gifting!

💡 Final FAQ Tips

Let the cake rest overnight for the best flavor—rum cake ages beautifully!
Use a serrated knife to slice for cleaner cuts.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

With these tips, you’re all set to bake a flawless, flavorful Caribbean Festival Rum Cake! 🍰✨ If you have more questions, feel free to drop them in the comments. Happy baking! 🎉


A freshly baked Caribbean Festival Rum Cake with a golden-brown, moist texture, drizzled with a rich rum glaze. A slice is cut out, revealing its soft, buttery interior, garnished with toasted coconut and pecans.

caribbean festival rum cake recipe

C. Sophie
Indulge in this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe a moist, buttery, and rum-soaked delight with warm spices, perfect for any celebration!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Fusion (Caribbean/Latin-inspired)
Servings 12 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients: The Foundation of the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • Provides structure while keeping the cake light.

1 cup granulated sugar

  • Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.

½ cup brown sugar

  • Enhances depth with a rich molasses-like flavor.

2 teaspoons baking powder

  • Helps the cake rise beautifully.

½ teaspoon salt

  • Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • Adds warmth and a touch of spice.

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • A classic Caribbean spice that deepens the aroma.

Wet Ingredients: Bringing Moisture & Flavor

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

  • The key to a rich and tender crumb.

4 large eggs

  • Helps bind the ingredients and create a soft texture.

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

  • Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.

½ cup whole milk

  • Keeps the cake moist and balances the richness.

½ cup dark rum

  • The star ingredient! Infuses the cake with its signature Caribbean flavor.

Optional Add-Ins: Customize Your Cake

½ cup golden raisins

  • Soaked in rum for extra moisture and sweetness.

½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

  • Adds crunch and nutty goodness.

¼ cup shredded coconut

  • Brings in a tropical twist.

Zest of 1 orange

  • A fresh citrusy note that brightens the flavors.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Essentials

  • Before you start mixing, let’s get everything ready:
  • ✔ Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) – This ensures even baking and prevents the cake from drying out.
  • ✔ Grease a bundt pan generously with butter and dust it with flour – This helps the cake release easily once baked. You can also use a non-stick baking spray.
  • ✔ If using raisins, soak them in a small bowl with 2 tablespoons of rum – This softens them and enhances their flavor.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  • The secret to a perfectly fluffy and tender rum cake lies in the mixing process. Follow these steps for a foolproof batter:
  • 1️⃣ Cream the butter and sugars – In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step helps create a soft, moist texture.
  • 2️⃣ Incorporate the eggs – Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create a smooth and airy batter.
  • 3️⃣ Add the vanilla and rum – Stir in vanilla extract and dark rum, blending well to distribute the flavors evenly.
  • 4️⃣ Combine the dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • 5️⃣ Alternate dry and wet ingredients – Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, stirring gently after each addition. This keeps the batter light and prevents over-mixing.
  • 6️⃣ Fold in optional add-ins – If using rum-soaked raisins, chopped pecans, or shredded coconut, gently fold them into the batter for added texture and flavor.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

  • 1️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • 2️⃣ Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
  • 3️⃣ Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • 4️⃣ Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Rum Glaze

  • While the cake cools, let’s make the rich, buttery rum glaze that takes this cake to the next level.
  • 1️⃣ Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  • 2️⃣ Stir in water and sugar, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the glaze thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
  • 3️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in the rum and vanilla extract.
  • ✔ For a stronger rum flavor, add an extra tablespoon of rum after removing the glaze from heat.
  • ✔ For a milder version, reduce the rum and add a splash of orange juice.

Step 5: Soak the Cake in the Glaze

  • 1️⃣ Poke small holes all over the cake using a skewer or fork – This allows the glaze to seep in for extra moisture and flavor.
  • 2️⃣ Slowly drizzle the warm glaze over the cake, letting it soak in gradually. You can do this in layers, allowing each layer to absorb before adding more.
  • 3️⃣ Let the cake sit for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Step 6: Time to Serve & Enjoy!

  • Once the cake has absorbed the glaze, it’s time to slice and indulge. Serve it as is, or elevate it with:
  • 🍨 A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
  • 🥥 Toasted coconut flakes for extra tropical vibes.
  • 🍯 A drizzle of caramel sauce for added richness.
  • ☕ A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea for the perfect pairing.

Notes

🥗 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 38g
  • Protein: 5g
(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Keyword Caribbean Festival Rum Caket, Moist Rum Cake, Traditional Caribbean Desser

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Sophie, is an AI chef designed to provide easy access to mouth-watering, nutritious recipes tailored to your tastes and needs.

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