If there’s one dessert that embodies the spirit of Caribbean festivals, Caribbean Festival Rum Cake Recipe it has to be the rum cake. This beloved treat is rich, moist, and packed with flavors that transport you straight to a tropical paradise. Splashed with rum and bursting with exotic spices, it’s a showstopper at celebrations, from Christmas gatherings to Carnival festivities.

Whether you experienced this iconic dessert during a festival or are curious to try it, this blog will walk you through a foolproof Caribbean rum cake recipe. From classic ingredients to tips for perfection, we’ve got you covered.

What Makes Caribbean Rum Cake So Special?

Caribbean rum cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of the region’s vibrant culture. What sets it apart are its defining features:

• Rum-infused flavor: A hallmark of Caribbean cuisine, rum is not just an ingredient but the star of the show, offering warmth and depth.
• Moist texture: Thanks to a dreamy glaze made of butter, sugar, and rum that’s poured over the cake after baking, it stays soft and indulgent for days.
• A hint of nostalgia: Many associate rum cake with family recipes passed down through generations, making it a treat steeped in tradition.

Now, let’s get baking so you can bring a piece of the Caribbean to your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before starting, gather the following ingredients to prepare a traditional Caribbean rum cake. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will ensure the flavors shine through.

For the Cake:

• Dry Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated is best)
• Wet Ingredients:
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• ¾ cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Captain Morgan)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional Additions:
• 1 cup chopped mixed nuts (e.g., pecans, almonds)
• 1 cup dried fruits (raisins or chopped dates soaked in rum for extra flavor)

For the Rum Glaze:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• ½ cup dark rum

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Caribbean Rum Cake

Step 1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a bundt pan generously with butter, and dust it with a sprinkle of flour. This step ensures your cake doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully shaped.

Step 2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together all the dry ingredients—flour, white sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg—in a large bowl. This will keep your cake light and airy.

Step 3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, butter, vegetable oil, and evaporated milk until the mixture is creamy. Slowly add in the rum and vanilla, mixing until well combined.

Step 4. Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, a bit at a time, while stirring on low speed. Be patient—this guarantees a smooth batter. If you want to include nuts or dried fruits, gently fold them in at this stage.

Step 5. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While it bakes, the warm aroma of spices and rum will fill your home!

Step 6. Make the Rum Glaze

While your cake cools, prepare the irresistible glaze. Combine butter, sugar, and water in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Reduce the heat and mix in the rum. Heat for 1–2 minutes, then remove from the stove.

Step 7. Add the Finishing Touch

While the cake is still warm, use a skewer or fork to poke small holes across its surface. Slowly pour the glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in—this is what makes the cake incredibly moist.

Step 8. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the glaze has set, carefully un-mold the bundt cake onto a plate. Slice and serve it alongside a cup of coffee, or package it as a festive gift. Pro tip: The flavors intensify over time, so don’t hesitate to bake it a day in advance.

Storage Tips

Caribbean rum cake stores well, making it perfect for gifting or prepping ahead of time:

• Room Temperature: Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Sealed tightly, the cake will last over a week in the fridge. Warm slices briefly before serving for that just-baked taste.
• Freezing: Rum cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser

This Caribbean rum cake recipe combines the warmth of traditional flavors with a beginner-friendly approach. Whether you’re making it for a holiday or craving something special for a weekend treat, it’s guaranteed to impress.

And it’s not just about taste—this dessert is a reminder of Caribbean culture, celebrating inclusivity and joy. Its delightful combination of rum-soaked sweetness and warm spices makes it irresistible to all who try it.

Bring the Caribbean to Your Dessert Table

With its bold flavors and rich history, Caribbean rum cake is more than a dessert—it’s an invitation to celebrate. Why not make it the next star of your festive gatherings?

If you try this recipe, we’d love to see how it turned out! Share your culinary creations on social media and tag us at