Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for rich, moist cakes with a boozy Caribbean twist, then you are absolutely going to adore this Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe. Bursting with juicy raisins soaked in rum and enveloped in a tender, flavorful batter, this cake feels like a warm tropical hug with every bite. It’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures, perfect for sharing with friends and family or treating yourself after a long day. Once you try this classic dessert, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in bringing out the authentic Jamaican flavor, tender crumb, and beautiful color of the cake. The simplicity of the pantry staples mixed with the magic of rum-soaked raisins creates an unforgettable treat.

• Sugar: Sweetness is essential, and 1 ½ cups of sugar ensures just the right balance without overpowering the other flavors.
• All Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups form the cake’s sturdy yet soft foundation to hold all the goodness together.
• Seedless Raisins: 2 cups soaked in rum for a plump, juicy bite that brings deep Caribbean flair.
• Rum: 12 teaspoons dark rum for authentic warmth and flavor — don’t skimp for best results!
• Large Eggs: 6 eggs bring richness and help bind the cake with airy texture.
• Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon helps the cake rise beautifully and creates a tender crumb.
• Vanilla Essence: 2 teaspoons add subtle depth and aroma to the cake’s flavor profile.
• Oil: 1 cup for moistness and a soft crumb — you can swap in melted butter for extra indulgence.
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons to ensure perfect lift along with the baking soda.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance all the flavors without being salty.
• Yogurt or Sour Cream: 1 cup adds tenderness and slight tang, rounding out the flavor wonderfully.

How to Make Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring the cake won’t stick and will come out in one beautiful piece. Proper preparation means an easier baking experience and a flawless presentation!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This mix is where the texture magic begins, combining leavening agents with the flour to create a light yet sturdy batter.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Break the eggs into the dry ingredients one at a time, stirring gently after each addition. Then pour in the oil, yogurt (or sour cream), and vanilla essence. Stir until you have a smooth, consistent batter. It’s already smelling delicious at this point!

Step 4: Soak the Raisins

Place the seedless raisins in a bowl and pour the rum over them, letting them soak for about an hour. This step is key: the raisins plump up beautifully and absorb the rich rum flavor, which makes every bite special and authentic to the Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe tradition.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle half of the soaked raisins over the top. Add the remaining batter and finish by scattering the rest of the raisins on the surface. This layering ensures you get rum-soaked raisins throughout the cake and some delicious surprises on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it — you’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of rum and warm cake.

Step 7: Cool and Remove from Pan

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before gently removing it. Cooling ensures the cake sets perfectly, making it easier to slice and present beautifully.

How to Serve Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe

Garnishes

This cake looks stunning when topped with a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts, like pecans or walnuts, or a light dusting of powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance. If you want to get a little fancy, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a lemon cream cheese frosting for a tart contrast that perfectly complements the rum and raisins.

Side Dishes

Serve your Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe alongside fresh tropical fruits such as pineapple slices or mango for a vibrant accomplice. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet can also elevate the dessert experience with contrasting creamy or refreshing textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake thinly and layer between sheets of parchment paper to make indulgent cake sandwiches with tropical jams or flavored buttercream. Or, transform leftover cake into trifle layers with whipped cream and fresh berries for an impressive showstopper at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy second (and third) helpings.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw it overnight in the fridge to bring back that perfect texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This quick step enhances the rum aroma and melts any frosting or garnishes to velvety perfection.

FAQs

Can I use light rum instead of dark rum?

Absolutely! Light rum or even bourbon can be used if you don’t have dark rum on hand, though dark rum provides the most authentic Jamaican flavor depth.

How important is soaking the raisins in rum?

Soaking the raisins is crucial for infusing the cake with boozy sweetness and plump fruit that bursts with flavor in every bite, so don’t skip this step!

Can I make this cake dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use coconut yogurt instead of regular yogurt. Swap oil for coconut oil or vegan butter to keep the cake moist and delicious.

How long does the cake keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, the cake stays fresh for about 3 days. Refrigeration can extend it to around a week, but make sure it’s well wrapped to prevent drying out.

Is it possible to add spices to this cake?

Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can add wonderful warmth and complexity to enhance the tropical vibe of this Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe — it’s a timeless slice of Caribbean sunshine that’s both comforting and exciting in flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something a little different, this cake is sure to deliver smiles and happy taste buds. So, grab your ingredients, soak your raisins, and dive into a slice of sweet, rum-infused paradise today!