Jamaican Rum Cake Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours  

   Prep Time: 45 minutes

Jamaican Rum Cake Ingredients

Jamaican Rum Cake Instructions

  1. Finely chop the mixed dried fruits and place them in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup dark rum and 1/4 cup port wine, stirring to combine. Cover and let the fruits soak for at least 8 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper. Set aside.
  3. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter with 1 cup packed dark brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the 5 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup whole milk, mixing just until combined.
  8. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 1 tablespoon lime zest, and 1/4 cup molasses until evenly distributed.
  9. Fold in the soaked fruit mixture (including any remaining liquid), 1/2 cup toasted chopped pecans or walnuts, and an additional 1/2 cup dark rum.
  10. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  12. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  13. Once the cake is cool, brush the top and sides with extra dark rum to create a glaze, allowing it to soak in. Repeat as desired for a richer flavor.

Estimated Calories: 416, Servings: 12

Recommended Dishes

Jamaican Rum Cake Pairings

When I think about the best flavors to pair with Jamaican Rum Cake, I always lean toward those warm, spicy, and slightly tropical notes. There is something so delicious about the way nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of allspice can complement the rich, boozy cake. Sometimes, I even sprinkle a little extra spice on top for a quick flavor boost. If you are looking for a good way to elevate your dessert, try adding a touch of orange zest or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It is an easy trick that makes the whole experience feel extra special and festive.
For sides, I have found that a scoop of coconut ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream works wonders. The creamy texture is a great contrast to the dense, moist cake, and it helps balance out the strong rum flavor. If you want something a bit more healthy, fresh tropical fruit like mango or pineapple is a fast and easy choice. I once tried a recipe that paired the cake with a quick fruit salad, and it was such a hit at my dinner party. It is always fun to play around with different sides to see what works best for your crowd.
When it comes to drinks, nothing beats a good cup of strong coffee or a glass of spiced tea alongside a slice of Jamaican Rum Cake. If you are in the mood for something a little more festive, a classic rum punch or even a simple glass of dark rum on the rocks can be a great match. I have also served it with a quick homemade ginger beer, which adds a zesty kick and keeps things feeling light and refreshing. No matter what you choose, the right drink can really bring out the best in this delicious dessert and make the whole meal feel complete.

Jamaican Rum Cake Story

I remember the first time I moved away from home, everything felt so unfamiliar and overwhelming. The city was loud, the people were strangers, and even the air seemed different. One evening, after a particularly tough day, I stumbled upon a small bakery tucked away on a side street. The moment I walked in, the scent hit me and instantly brought back memories of family gatherings and laughter. It was like a quick trip back to my childhood, and I could not help but smile. That feeling of comfort was the best thing I could have asked for in that moment.
Making that recipe myself became my little ritual whenever I missed home. It was surprisingly easy to put together, and the process itself was almost therapeutic. I would play some music, let the aroma fill my tiny apartment, and suddenly, the world did not feel so big or lonely anymore. Even though I was far away, those familiar flavors made everything feel a little more manageable. It was a great way to remind myself that good things could still happen, even on the hardest days.
Sharing it with new friends was another unexpected joy. They always commented on how delicious it was, and I loved seeing their reactions. It was a healthy reminder that food has this amazing power to connect people, no matter where you are. The best part was how fast everyone would ask for seconds, and how quickly the mood in the room would shift to something warm and welcoming. In those moments, I realized that home is not just a place, but a feeling you can recreate, even thousands of miles away.

About Jamaican Rum Cake Recipe

If you're searching for the best, most delicious Jamaican rum cake recipe, you've landed in the right kitchen! I've been making this easy, homemade treat for years, and let me tell you, it's always a hit at every family gathering. The secret to this authentic cake is all in the ingredients-don't skimp on the rum, and definitely don't forget the dried fruits. If you're wondering how to make a quick and tasty dessert that'll impress everyone, this is the recipe you need. Trust me, even if you're not a pro baker, you'll find this simple method foolproof.
One of my favorite things about this Jamaican-inspired rum cake recipe is how flexible it is. You can swap out some ingredients based on what you have at home, and it still turns out perfect every time. Want to know my top tips? Soak your fruits ahead of time for that extra burst of flavor, and don't be shy with the rum-after all, it's not called rum cake for nothing! The best part is, you don't need fancy equipment or hours in the kitchen. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a homemade dessert without the fuss.
If you're still wondering how to make the best, most authentic Jamaican rum cake, just follow this simple recipe and you'll be the star of your next party. The combination of rich, moist cake and that unmistakable rum kick is simply irresistible. I always get asked for my recipe, and my answer is always the same: use quality ingredients, follow my tips, and don't forget to have fun! After all, baking should be as enjoyable as eating the finished product. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake the perfect, tasty Jamaican rum cake-your taste buds will thank you!

Jamaican Rum Cake Tips

When I first tried making this classic Jamaican dessert at home, I realized the secret to the best rum cake is all about patience and the right ingredients. For an authentic, homemade flavor, I always soak my dried fruits in dark rum for at least a few days-sometimes even weeks. This step is what gives the cake its rich, deep taste and moist texture. If you're looking for a quick and easy version, you can simmer the fruits in rum for about 10 minutes, but trust me, the longer soak makes a world of difference.
To get that perfect, delicious crumb, I make sure my butter and sugar are creamed until light and fluffy. This simple step helps the cake rise beautifully and gives it that irresistible, tasty texture. When I want to impress guests, I use freshly grated nutmeg and a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth. These little tips really elevate the recipe and make it stand out as the best Jamaican-inspired rum cake.
If you're wondering how to make the cake extra moist, I brush the finished cake with more rum while it's still warm. This not only intensifies the flavor but also keeps the cake fresh for days. For a quick and easy finish, I sometimes dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream. The result is always a crowd-pleaser-simple, authentic, and absolutely delicious.

Jamaican Rum Cake Quick Mistake Fixes

One time, I got a little too enthusiastic with the salt when making this cake, thinking it would balance out the sweetness. Big mistake! The best cakes have just a pinch, but I learned the hard way that too much salt can overpower all those delicious, rich flavors. It's easy to get carried away, especially if you're in a rush and not measuring carefully. Now, I always double check because a good Jamaican dessert should be sweet and comforting, not salty. If you ever find yourself in this situation, a quick fix is to serve the cake with a sweet sauce or whipped cream to mask the saltiness a bit.
I remember the first time I tried to bake this cake, I left it in the oven just a little too long because I wanted to make sure it was cooked through. Turns out, overcooking is the fastest way to end up with a dry, crumbly cake that's nothing like the moist, boozy treat everyone loves. The best cakes are moist and tender, and it's so easy to lose that if you're not careful. If you notice it's getting dry, a good trick is to brush it with a little extra rum or syrup while it's still warm. That way, you can bring back some of that great texture and keep things delicious.
Sometimes, after all the effort, I take the cake out and it just doesn't look as good as I hoped. Maybe it's a little sunken in the middle or the top is uneven. I used to get frustrated, but I realized that a quick dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze can make a world of difference. Presentation is key, especially if you want your dessert to look as good as it tastes. Even if the appearance isn't perfect, a few easy finishing touches can make it look great and impress everyone. It's all about making the best of what you have and enjoying the process!