Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe – Moist, Flavorful & Irresistible
This Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe is a deliciously moist and spiced dessert, infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of rum flavor. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering or a simple indulgence, this cake is a true celebration of Caribbean flavors!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a natural option
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened (or plant-based butter for vegan)
- 2 large eggs or flax eggs for vegan
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup raisins or dried fruits pre-soaked in apple juice for extra moisture
- ¼ cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
Soaking Syrup
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp rum extract or apple juice for non-alcoholic version
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon optional
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Allow it to fully preheat for even baking.
2️⃣ Prepare the Baking Pan
- Grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Pro Tip: Line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.
3️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients eliminates lumps and creates a smoother batter.
4️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat:
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- Mix until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter.
5️⃣ Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Vegan Alternative: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
6️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with ½ cup coconut milk.
- Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
7️⃣ Fold in Optional Ingredients
- Gently fold in:
- ½ cup raisins/dried fruits (pre-soaked)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Pro Tip: Soak raisins in apple juice for 10 minutes before adding.
8️⃣ Pour Batter into the Pan
- Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
9️⃣ Bake the Cake
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Check doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean.
- Tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
🔟 Prepare the Soaking Syrup
- In a small saucepan, gently heat:
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp rum extract (or apple juice)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Stir until warm and fragrant.
1️⃣1️⃣ Soak the Cake
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Poke small holes all over the cake with a skewer.
- Slowly pour the warm syrup over the cake, letting it absorb.
- Tip: Allow the cake to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
1️⃣2️⃣ Let the Cake Rest
- Cover the cake and let it rest overnight for best flavor.
- Storage: Keep at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days.
1️⃣3️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice and serve your delicious Caribbean Festival Rum Cake!
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped coconut cream.
- Pairs Well With: A cup of tea, coffee, or a tropical fruit salad.
Video
Notes
🌟 Pro Tips & Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
✅ Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
✅ Pre-soak dried fruits for extra moisture.
✅ Rest the cake overnight for richer flavors.
✅ For extra moisture, brush more syrup on the cake the next day. Creative Variations
🍍 Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks for extra flavor.
🍫 Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
🔥 Spicy Kick: Add a dash of ginger for more warmth. Dietary Adaptations
🌱 Vegan: Use flax eggs and plant-based butter.
🌾 Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
🧂 Low-Sodium: Reduce or omit salt.
🍯 Sugar-Free: Swap sugar with stevia or erythritol.
✅ Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
✅ Pre-soak dried fruits for extra moisture.
✅ Rest the cake overnight for richer flavors.
✅ For extra moisture, brush more syrup on the cake the next day. Creative Variations
🍍 Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks for extra flavor.
🍫 Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
🔥 Spicy Kick: Add a dash of ginger for more warmth. Dietary Adaptations
🌱 Vegan: Use flax eggs and plant-based butter.
🌾 Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
🧂 Low-Sodium: Reduce or omit salt.
🍯 Sugar-Free: Swap sugar with stevia or erythritol.