June 10, 2025

Traditional Jamaican Rum Cake Recipe: Authentic Caribbean Dessert

This traditional Jamaican rum cake recipe is a rich and moist holiday cake that embodies the festive spirit of the Caribbean. Often enjoyed during Christmas, this authentic rum-soaked cake is made with a blend of dried fruits, spices, and, of course, rum, making it a delightful centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

If you’re looking to learn how to make rum cake, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delicious soaked fruitcake that captures the essence of Jamaican dessert culture. With a butter rum sauce cake topping, this Jamaican black cake is perfect for festive occasions.

Festive Vibes with Jamaican Rum Cake

The Jamaican rum cake is a delightful centerpiece that embodies the spirit of the holidays. This rich and moist holiday cake, often referred to as Jamaican black cake during Christmas, is a true celebration of flavors.

Made with a blend of soaked fruits and spices, this authentic rum-soaked cake is perfect for festive gatherings. The glossy butter rum sauce topping adds a touch of indulgence, making it a must-have for any holiday dessert table.

As you prepare to create this delicious soaked fruitcake, you’ll find that it not only satisfies the palate but also brings a warm, inviting atmosphere to your celebrations.

Creating the Perfect Jamaican Rum Cake

To master the art of the Jamaican rum cake recipe, start by soaking a variety of dried fruits in dark rum. This step is essential, as it infuses the cake with rich flavors. Allow the fruits to soak for at least 24 hours, or even up to a week for a more intense taste.

Once your fruits are ready, the next phase involves preparing the batter. Cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy, then incorporate eggs one at a time.

Mixing dry ingredients separately ensures a smooth batter, which you’ll combine with the soaked fruits. This method guarantees that every slice of your Caribbean rum cake recipe is bursting with flavor.

Baking and Decorating Your Cake

After pouring the batter into a prepared pan, bake it until a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible, setting the stage for a delightful dessert experience.

Once cooled, drizzle the cake with the butter rum sauce, allowing it to soak in for an extra layer of flavor.

For a festive touch, decorate the cake with holly and twinkling lights, creating a warm holiday atmosphere that will impress your guests.

Serving Suggestions for the Holidays

When it comes to serving your Jamaican fruitcake recipe, consider pairing it with a glass of dark rum. This combination enhances the cake’s flavors, making for a truly indulgent experience.

Slice the cake into generous portions, showcasing the rich texture and soaked fruit pieces.

This homemade boozy rum cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of Caribbean culture and tradition, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Why Choose Jamaican Rum Cake?

This rich and moist holiday cake stands out among festive recipes with wine and rum. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a favorite during the holiday season.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional dessert or a new addition to your holiday menu, the Jamaican rum cake is a fantastic choice.

With its authentic rum-soaked flavor and festive presentation, it is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

Tips for a Successful Bake

To achieve the best results with your Jamaican-style dessert recipes, remember to use quality ingredients. The choice of dark rum and fresh dried fruits can significantly impact the flavor profile of your cake.

Don’t rush the soaking process; the longer the fruits sit in rum, the more flavorful your cake will be.

Lastly, allow the cake to rest after baking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more delicious soaked fruitcake.

Authentic Caribbean Rum Cake Recipe

A traditional Jamaican rum cake with butter rum sauce, festive decorations, and a slice on a plate.

This Jamaican rum cake features a combination of soaked fruits, spices, and black rum, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and serves 12 people, making it an ideal choice for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, cherries, etc.)
1 cup dark rum

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups brown sugar
4 large eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Butter rum sauce (for topping)

Instructions

Soak the Fruits: In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits with dark rum. Cover and let them soak for at least 24 hours, or up to a week for a richer flavor.

Prepare the Batter: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the soaked fruits and nuts, if using.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured bundt or cake pan. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle with butter rum sauce before serving.