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Best Rum Cake Recipe

Best Rum Cake Recipe

This golden, buttery rum cake is infused with dark rum and topped with a luscious glaze that seeps into every bite. Moist, aromatic, and timeless — it’s a dessert that turns simple moments into celebrations.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American, Caribbean, European-Inspired
Servings 12 slices
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Bundt Pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk or Electric Mixer
  • Saucepan
  • Cooling Rack
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Cake Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour base for a tender crumb
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup dark rum adds warmth and depth
  • 1/2 cup whole milk for a soft texture
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional, for crunch and aroma

Rum Glaze

  • 1/2 cup butter for a rich, glossy glaze
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar to melt into syrup
  • 1/4 cup dark rum added after simmering for flavor and aroma

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan for easy release and golden crust.
  • Cream together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in vanilla extract, milk, and rum until smooth and aromatic.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and sprinkle chopped pecans on top, if using. Smooth the surface.
  • Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • While baking, make the rum glaze: Melt butter in a small saucepan, add water and sugar, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in rum carefully.
  • When cake is done, poke small holes all over while warm and slowly pour glaze over the top to soak in.
  • Let cool completely before slicing and serving. Each bite will be buttery, moist, and infused with sweet rum flavor.

Notes

For best flavor, bake a day in advance and let the cake rest overnight — the rum glaze deepens the taste beautifully. Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or coffee. Keeps well for several days at room temperature or refrigerated.
Keyword Bundt Cake, Comfort Baking, Holiday Dessert, Rum Cake