Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe: How to Make It Irresistible

If you’ve ever been to a Caribbean festival or holiday celebration, you’ve likely tasted the iconic rum cake—a moist, indulgent dessert that perfectly balances rich flavors with a tropical twist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a unique treat to share with friends, or just craving a slice of something special, this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake recipe is your ticket to a truly unforgettable dessert.

This recipe combines the warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of dark rum, creating a cake that’s not only delicious but full of island-inspired charm. The best part? It’s super versatile! You can customize it with your favorite dried fruits or adjust the sweetness to your liking. So, grab your mixing bowl and get ready to create a flavor-packed rum cake that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any occasion.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started and bring the tropical flavors of the Caribbean right to your kitchen!

Key Benefits of Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

Let’s talk about why this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is an absolute game-changer. Not only is it a dessert that brings a taste of the islands straight to your kitchen, but it’s also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family get-together, a festive holiday celebration, or just a cozy weekend treat. Here’s why you’ll love this rum cake:

1. Moist and Flavorful Texture

One of the standout features of this cake is its moistness. Thanks to the dark rum and a dash of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, every bite feels like you’re sinking your teeth into a rich, flavorful indulgence. The caramelized rum glaze adds a layer of sweetness that not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the cake irresistibly moist for days.

2. Authentic Caribbean Flavors

The use of dark rum and tropical spices—think cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla—gives this cake its distinct Caribbean flair. It’s like a slice of vacation in every bite. Plus, dried fruits like raisins or prunes bring in a natural sweetness and chewiness that complement the richness of the rum. You’ll feel like you’re enjoying a beachside treat without ever leaving home. For more Caribbean-inspired recipes, check out Jasmine Caribbean Cuisine, a wonderful resource to bring even more island flavors into your kitchen.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

This cake is more than just a sweet treat; it’s perfect for creating lasting memories. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a wedding, or a special gathering, it’s bound to become a conversation starter. The combination of flavors makes it an ideal choice for everything from Christmas to Thanksgiving or any other festive occasion. Plus, the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will have your guests eagerly awaiting a slice!

4. Customizable to Your Taste

What’s even better? This recipe is incredibly customizable. You can experiment with different dried fruits, like apricots or dates, or even try adding chocolate chips for a fun twist. Not a fan of rum? No problem—swap it for fruit juice or apple cider for an alcohol-free version. Whether you stick to the traditional version or make it your own, the result will still be nothing short of spectacular.

5. A Make-Ahead Masterpiece

One of the most convenient aspects of this rum cake recipe is that it gets better with time. The longer it sits (covered and stored at room temperature), the more the flavors develop, giving you a perfectly moist cake that’s even more decadent after a day or two. This makes it an ideal dessert to prepare ahead of time when hosting guests or for busy holiday seasons.

With these amazing benefits, it’s no wonder that Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is a beloved treat. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for bringing a little bit of the tropics into your home. Now, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need to make this cake a reality!

Ingredients for Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

Now that you’re excited about making this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need. This cake is packed with rich flavors and tropical ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. You probably already have a few of these essentials in your pantry, and the rest are easy to find at your local grocery store or online!

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup apple juice or pineapple juice – These juices provide a rich, fruity flavor to the cake, offering a tropical essence without alcohol.
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• ¾ cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, prunes, or a combination)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

Optional Glaze:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup apple juice or pineapple juice – This replaces the rum in the glaze, keeping the sweetness and flavor but ensuring it’s alcohol-free and halal-friendly.

Pro Tips for Friendly:

1. Use Apple or Pineapple Juice: Swap the rum for apple juice or pineapple juice. These juices provide natural sweetness and a tropical flavor without the alcohol.
2. Customize with Halal-Friendly Syrup: For an extra flavor kick, you can add a touch of maple syrup or date syrup to both the batter and glaze. These provide a rich, natural sweetness with no alcohol involved.
3. Spices and Zest: Don’t forget the orange zest and cinnamon—they bring a warm, comforting depth to the cake that perfectly complements the fruity juices.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to begin! Now, let’s move on to the next step: preparing the cake batter and getting it ready for the oven. The key to making this cake come out perfect is the right combination of mixing and baking, so let’s dive into that in the next section.

Instructions for Making Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

Let’s dive into the fun part—baking your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake! This section will guide you step-by-step through the process, ensuring you have a moist, flavorful cake to enjoy. Follow along, and you’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious it is to make.

1. Preheat the Oven

First things first: preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This gives your cake the best chance of baking evenly and developing a beautiful golden color on top.

2. Prepare the Pan

Grease your 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly with butter, making sure to cover all surfaces. Then lightly dust the pan with flour to help the cake release smoothly after baking. For extra protection, you can line the bottom of the pan with a parchment paper circle, but this step is optional.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are well combined, and you avoid clumps of baking powder or spices in your batter.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process takes a few minutes, but it’s essential for creating a soft, airy texture in the cake.

5. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely, aromatic sweetness.

6. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula after each addition. You want to mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the cake’s fluffiness.

7. Add Rum, Dried Fruits, and Orange Zest

Stir in the dark rum, dried fruits, and orange zest. These ingredients are what make this rum cake special! The rum infuses the cake with a rich, tropical flavor, while the dried fruits add sweetness and texture.

8. Pour the batter into the Pan

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to even it out on top. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that could cause holes or uneven spots in your cake.

9. Bake the Cake

Now, pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean, or with just a few crumbs attached.

10. Let the Cake Cool

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This short resting time allows the cake to set, so it doesn’t break apart when you flip it out.

11. Prepare the Rum Glaze

While the cake cools, you can prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter, then add the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Bring the mixture to a simmer for a couple of minutes, then add the dark rum and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.

12. Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the rum glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake. This adds a layer of sweetness and moisture, making the cake even more irresistible.

13. Let the Cake Set

Give the cake about 15 minutes to let the glaze set before you slice it. This waiting period helps the glaze soak in and ensures the cake holds its shape.

With these simple steps, your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is ready to shine! The combination of rum, spices, and dried fruit creates a truly flavorful and moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it up for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as a treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Pro Tips and Variations for the Best Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

While the basic recipe for this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is incredibly easy to follow, there are a few pro tips and variations you can try to elevate the flavors and texture of your cake. Whether you’re baking it for the first time or are looking to customize it for your taste, these tips will help you create a showstopper!

Pro Tips for a Perfect Rum Cake Every Time

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
   For the best results, ensure your butter, eggs, and any other refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and results in a lighter, fluffier texture. If you’re in a rush, you can microwave the butter for a few seconds to soften it, but don’t let it melt!
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
   Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix gently and avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light and airy texture that makes this rum cake so irresistible.
3. Tap the Pan to Release Air Bubbles
   After pouring the batter into your prepared pan, tap it gently on the countertop. This helps release any trapped air bubbles and ensures that the cake bakes evenly, resulting in a smoother crumb.
4. Check Cake Doneness with a Toothpick
   Ovens vary in temperature, so it’s important to check if your cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s time to remove the cake from the oven.
5. Let the Cake Cool Before Glazing
   Allow the cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a wire rack. This gives it time to set, making it easier to remove without it falling apart. Also, wait until the cake is mostly cool before adding the glaze so it doesn’t melt off immediately.
6. Let the Glaze Soak In
   After pouring the rum glaze over the cake, let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the glaze to soak into the cake. This makes the cake extra moist and flavorful, with the rum adding that signature rich taste.
7. Try Other Flavor Variations
   You can get creative with your cake! Add dried fruits like pineapple or mango to really amp up the tropical flavor, or try pairing it with an equally delicious side like Elote Pasta Salad for a festive feast.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

While the classic version of Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with the following variations to suit your preferences or impress your guests!

1. Add Different Dried Fruits
   Traditional Caribbean rum cakes often feature a blend of raisins, prunes, and dried apricots, but you can mix it up based on what you like. Try adding dried cherries, cranberries, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Just be sure to chop the larger fruits into smaller pieces before adding them to the batter.
2. Incorporate Spices for Extra Warmth
   For a spicier kick, add a pinch of allspice or ground ginger. These warm spices will bring out the cake’s festive flavors, giving it a deeper, more complex taste.
3. Infuse with Coconut
   If you love coconut, consider adding shredded coconut to the batter or sprinkling it over the top after glazing. You could even swap a bit of the butter for coconut oil to enhance that tropical coconut flavor.
4. Go for a Different Alcohol
   While dark rum is the classic choice for this cake, you can experiment with different types of alcohol for unique variations. Spiced rum can add an extra layer of flavor, while bourbon or brandy will provide a deeper, more robust taste. Adjust the alcohol type to suit your taste while keeping the measurements consistent to maintain the overall balance.
5. Use Brown Sugar for More Caramel Flavor
   While the recipe calls for brown sugar, you can play with different types of brown sugar-like dark brown sugar—for a richer caramel-like flavor that will give your cake an even deeper sweetness.
6. Soak with More Rum
   For true rum lovers, once the cake is fully baked and cooled, you can brush it with more rum (after the glaze has set) for an extra boozy punch. This is a great option if you’re making the cake ahead of time for an event like a Caribbean festival or holiday gathering.

Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: You can easily make this cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, including the baking powder, are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: To make the cake dairy-free, swap the unsalted butter for coconut oil or dairy-free margarine, and ensure that your glaze uses dairy-free butter or coconut milk instead of regular butter.

By following these pro tips and trying out some of the variations, you’ll be able to make your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake truly your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with flavor twists, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy experimenting, and most importantly, enjoy eating!

Serving Suggestions for Your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

Now that you’ve created this incredible Caribbean Festival Rum Cake, it’s time to think about how to serve it! While the cake is fantastic all on its own, there are plenty of ways to enhance the experience and wow your guests. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a delicious treat, these serving ideas will take your cake to the next level.

1. Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

Nothing pairs better with a moist rum cake than a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture of the whipped cream balances the rich, boozy flavor of the cake perfectly, making each bite a delightful contrast. You could even try a flavored ice cream like coconut or cinnamon to complement the tropical notes of the cake.

2. Garnish with Toasted Nuts

For an extra layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top of your rum cake. The warm, nutty crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender crumb of the cake, adding a delightful bite. Just toast the nuts lightly in a dry pan or oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant, then chop them before sprinkling them on top.

3. Serve with Fresh Fruit

To bring a refreshing, light touch to balance the richness of the rum cake, serve it alongside fresh tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or papaya. The natural sweetness and juiciness of these fruits provide a perfect contrast to the dense and moist texture of the cake. You could also create a fruit salad to serve on the side or place a few slices of fruit on top of each serving.

4. Pair with a Drink

Why not complement the Caribbean Festival Rum Cake with a delicious beverage? Here are a few options:

• Spiced Rum: A glass of spiced rum will highlight the flavors in the cake and give it a true island vibe.
• Coffee: If you’re serving the cake for dessert, a cup of rich coffee or a latte pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the cake.
• Coconut Water or Fruit Juices: For a non-alcoholic option, chilled coconut water or tropical fruit juices like guava or mango juice are refreshing and add to the tropical theme.

5. Present it Festively

If you’re serving the cake at a party or celebration, why not dress it up? A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can give it an elegant, snow-like effect. For added flair, decorate the cake with edible flowers or a few extra chopped nuts for a beautiful, festive touch. You could even drizzle some of the rum glaze over the top to enhance its presentation.

6. Make It an Afternoon Tea Treat

Serve your Caribbean Rum Cake as part of an afternoon tea spread. Pair it with light finger sandwiches, scones, and some refreshing iced tea. The combination of flavors and textures will create a luxurious, laid-back experience for your guests to enjoy.

7. Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday like Christmas or Easter, or a Caribbean-themed party, this rum cake is sure to impress. If you’re serving it at a party, slice it up into small, bite-sized pieces to encourage guests to sample multiple treats. You could also give each slice a splash of extra rum glaze for a more indulgent serving.

These simple yet creative serving suggestions will help you turn your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake into a true crowd-pleaser. From pairing it with drinks to adding a tropical fruit medley, there’s no limit to how you can enhance this already irresistible dessert. So, serve it however you like—and get ready to receive compliments on your delicious creation!

Conclusion: Why This Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Will Become Your New Favorite

Nothing pairs better with a moist rum cake than a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture of the whipped cream balances the rich, boozy flavor of the cake perfectly, making each bite a delightful contrast. You could even try a flavored ice cream like coconut or cinnamon to complement the tropical notes of the cake. For an added tropical twist, consider serving the cake alongside a Pineapple Casserole for an extra burst of fruitiness that’ll complement the cake’s tropical flavors.

What sets this cake apart is how adaptable it is to any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or even a simple family meal, this rum cake brings a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to the table. Its easy-to-follow recipe makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced bakers alike, and the final result is nothing short of impressive.

This Caribbean Rum Cake isn’t just another treat—it’s an experience. The combination of a rich, tender crumb and the indulgent rum glaze makes each bite irresistible. And because the flavors tend to develop more as the cake sits, it’s perfect for preparing ahead of time, ensuring your dessert is ready for any gathering.

Whether you’re pairing it with a refreshing drink, sharing it with friends, or simply enjoying a slice by yourself, this cake is sure to be a new favorite in your baking collection. The blend of tropical rum, rich butter, and warm spices makes it a treat that’s not only delicious but also meaningful—a true celebration of the Caribbean spirit in every bite.

So, next time you’re looking for a showstopper dessert, this Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is the one to make. It’s a delicious, fun, and flavorful addition to any event, and we’re sure it will become your go-to dessert for any occasion.

Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe​

Camila

Learn how to make the perfect Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe—a moist, flavorful treat that’s ideal for any celebration or sweet craving!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Caribbean

Servings 12 slices

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• This is the base of the cake giving it structure while keeping the texture light and fluffy.
• 1 cup dark rum
• The dark rum is key to achieving that authentic Caribbean flavor. It’s rich full-bodied, and pairs wonderfully with the spices and dried fruits.
• 1 cup brown sugar
• Brown sugar adds depth to the cake’s sweetness and a bit of molasses-like flavor that enhances the rum’s richness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• Butter makes the cake moist and gives it a rich creamy texture. Make sure to use unsalted so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.
• 4 large eggs
• Eggs provide moisture and help bind the ingredients together creating a soft and tender crumb.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• This helps the cake rise making it light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A dash of vanilla brings warmth and a subtle sweetness that balances the other bold flavors.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Cinnamon gives the cake a cozy aromatic spice that blends perfectly with the rum and nutmeg.
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• Nutmeg is a signature spice in Caribbean baking and adds a slightly sweet earthy flavor.
• Pinch of salt
• Salt enhances the other flavors ensuring the sweetness doesn’t overpower the cake.

Dried Fruits & Flavor Add-ins:

• ¾ cup mixed dried fruits raisins, prunes, or a combination
• Dried fruits are a traditional addition to this cake adding both sweetness and texture. You can use raisins, prunes, or even chopped dried apricots or dates for a twist.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• A little zest from an orange brightens the flavors bringing a fresh citrus note that complements the rum and spices.

Optional Glaze:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• The glaze starts with butter to create a rich smooth base.
• 1 cup sugar
• This is the sweetening agent that helps the glaze coat the cake and give it that delicious sticky finish.
• ¼ cup dark rum
• For extra flavor and a glossy finish the rum is added to the glaze. It soaks into the cake, enhancing its moisture.

Instructions

 

Preheat the Oven

• First things first: preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This gives your cake the best chance of baking evenly and developing a beautiful golden color on top.

Prepare the Pan

• Grease your 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly with butter, making sure to cover all surfaces. Then lightly dust the pan with flour to help the cake release smoothly after baking. For extra protection, you can line the bottom of the pan with a parchment paper circle, but this step is optional.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are well combined, and you avoid clumps of baking powder or spices in your batter.

Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process takes a few minutes, but it’s essential for creating a soft, airy texture in the cake.

Add the Eggs and Vanilla

• Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely, aromatic sweetness.
• Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
• Slowly add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula after each addition. You want to mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the cake’s fluffiness.

Add Rum, Dried Fruits, and Orange Zest

• Stir in the dark rum, dried fruits, and orange zest. These ingredients are what make this rum cake special! The rum infuses the cake with a rich, tropical flavor, while the dried fruits add sweetness and texture.

Pour the Batter into the Pan

• Carefully pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to even it out on top. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that could cause holes or uneven spots in your cake.

Bake the Cake

• Now, pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean, or with just a few crumbs attached.

Let the Cake Cool

• Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This short resting time allows the cake to set, so it doesn’t break apart when you flip it out.

Prepare the Rum Glaze

• While the cake cools, you can prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter, then add the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Bring the mixture to a simmer for a couple of minutes, then add the dark rum and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Glaze the Cake

• Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the rum glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake. This adds a layer of sweetness and moisture, making the cake even more irresistible.

Let the Cake Set

• Give the cake about 15 minutes to let the glaze set before you slice it. This waiting period helps the glaze soak in and ensures the cake holds its shape.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 3g
• Vitamin A: 8% of Daily Value
• Vitamin C: 2% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 2% of Daily Value
• Iron: 6% of Daily Value

Keyword Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe

(FAQs) About Caribbean Festival Rum Cake

To help you perfect your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake, here are answers to some of the most common questions. Whether you’re a first-time baker or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you enjoy a smooth baking experience and a delicious final result.

These FAQs are designed to help guide you through the process and ensure that your Caribbean Festival Rum Cake is a success. Whether you’re preparing it for a special event or simply indulging in a little tropical luxury, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your kitchen. Happy baking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!