Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe

Discover the Rich Flavors of Jamaica

This decadent Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake recipe is a true taste of the Caribbean. The cake is moist and flavorful, with a generous amount of plump raisins soaked in rich, dark rum. It’s a perfect dessert for special occasions, holidays, or simply a cozy night in.

The aroma of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg fills the kitchen, while the sweet, boozy scent of rum lingers in the air. Each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors – the soft, tender cake, the juicy raisins, and the warm, comforting spices.

This recipe is a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic Jamaican treat!

Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Recipe Card

This moist and decadent Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake is a perfect blend of Caribbean spices and rich rum flavors.

Recipe Details

• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 people
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Ingredients

• 240g / 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 120g / 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 60g / 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 15g / 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 7g / 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 7g / 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 120g / 1 cup raisins, soaked in 60g / 2 tablespoons dark rum

Tips and Variations

Adjust the amount of rum to your liking, and consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cake for extra flavor.

Ingredients for Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

To create an authentic Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake, several key ingredients are required. The foundation of this cake lies in its rum-infused raisins, which add a depth of flavor and aroma. Other essential components include a blend of spices and quality baking ingredients.

The following ingredients will be needed:

• 240 g / 1 cup raisins
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup dark rum
• 280 g / 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 200 g / 1 cup granulated sugar
• 100 g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional ingredients:
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
  • A splash of citrus zest for extra flavor

These ingredients will be combined and baked at 180°C / 350°F to create a moist and flavorful cake. The rum-infused raisins will add a unique twist to this traditional cake recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Jamaica with this classic rum raisin cake recipe. Follow these detailed instructions for a moist, fragrant, and unforgettable baking experience.

Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Grease and flour a 23cm (9-inch) round cake pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream together 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter and 225g (1 cup) granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 240g (2 cups) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 180ml (3/4 cup) buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Stir in 120g (1 cup) raisins and 60ml (1/4 cup) dark rum.

Baking and Cooling

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Rum Syrup

1. While the cake is cooling, combine 120ml (1/2 cup) dark rum, 120ml (1/2 cup) water, and 120g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar in a small saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool slightly.

Assembly

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, use a sharp knife to poke holes all over the top.
2. Slowly pour the rum syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
3. Frost the cake with your favorite frosting and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

With the right techniques and attention to detail, you can create a moist, flavorful, and visually stunning Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake. Here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Use the right type of rum: Choose a high-quality dark rum, such as Myers’s or Appleton Estate, to give your cake a rich, authentic flavor.
• Soak raisins in a flavorful liquid: Mix raisins with rum, brown sugar, and spices before adding them to the batter for an intense, boozy flavor.
• Don’t overbake: Check the cake frequently during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking. The cake is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let it rest: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This will help the cake retain its moisture and structure.

Avoid common pitfalls like underbaking or overmixing the batter, which can result in a cake that’s too dense or soggy. By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake that’s sure to impress.

Substitutions and Replacements in Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

To customize the Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake recipe to your taste preferences, consider the following substitutions and replacements:

• Rum: Replace 60 ml / 2 oz of dark rum with an equal amount of bourbon or brandy for a different flavor profile.
• Raisins: Use 120 g / 1/2 cup of cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist, reducing the amount of sugar by 25 g / 2 tbsp.
• Spices: Substitute 1 tsp of ground cinnamon with 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg for a warmer, more aromatic flavor.
• Flour: Replace 30 g / 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with an equal amount of whole wheat flour for added texture and nutrition.

When making substitutions, keep in mind the flavor impact and adjust the amount of sugar, spices, or liquid accordingly. For example, using a darker rum will result in a stronger flavor, so you may want to reduce the amount used to 45 ml / 1.5 oz.

Taking Your Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake to the Next Level

This classic Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few variations to inspire you:

Spiced Up

Add a warm kick to your cake by incorporating 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg into the batter. Baking time may increase slightly by 5-10 minutes, so keep an eye on it.

Citrus Burst

Brighten up the flavors with the zest of 1 orange or 1 lime. Add it to the batter along with the rum for a refreshing twist.

Chocolate Dream

For a decadent treat, fold in 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

Coconut Delight

Embrace the tropical vibes by adding 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter. You can also brush the finished cake with a mixture of melted coconut oil and rum for extra coconut flavor.

Storing and Preserving Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

After baking your Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake, it’s essential to store and preserve it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Short-Term Storage (up to 3 days)

• Allow the cake to cool completely in a wire rack.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the cake at room temperature (20-22°C / 68-72°F) away from direct sunlight.

Long-Term Storage (up to 2 months)

1. Place the cake in an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Store the cake in the refrigerator at 4-6°C (39-43°F).
3. Freeze the cake for longer storage (up to 6 months). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.

When storing or freezing your Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake, make sure it’s completely cooled to prevent moisture buildup and spoilage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

When baking a Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake, several issues may arise that can affect the final product’s texture, flavor, and appearance. Identifying and resolving these problems is crucial to achieving a delicious and moist cake.

Common Issues and Fixes

The following are some common problems that may occur during the baking process, along with their corresponding solutions:

• Underbaked or overbaked cake: Check the cake’s internal temperature, which should reach 90°C / 194°F. Adjust the baking time as needed, keeping in mind that the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Insufficient rum flavor: Increase the amount of rum extract or soak the raisins in 60 ml / 2 oz of dark rum for at least 2 hours before adding them to the batter.
• Soggy or dry texture: Ensure that the cake is not overmixed, and the ingredients are at room temperature. Also, check the ratio of liquid ingredients, such as 240 g / 1 cup of buttermilk, to dry ingredients.
• Unevenly distributed raisins: Fold the raisins into the batter gently, and make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to distribute them evenly throughout the cake.

By being aware of these potential issues and taking the necessary steps to resolve them, bakers can create a delicious and authentic Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake that showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Nutritional Information for Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

This decadent Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake is a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a glimpse of its nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 3g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.

Key Takeaways for Making the Perfect Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

To achieve a delicious and authentic Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake, consider the following essential points and tips:

• Soak 120 g / 1/2 cup of raisins in 60 ml / 1/4 cup of dark Jamaican rum for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
• Use a combination of 180 g / 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 100 g / 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 100 g / 1/2 cup granulated sugar for a balanced sweetness.
• Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before drizzling with a rum butter glaze made from 60 g / 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 120 g / 1 cup powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons dark Jamaican rum.

By following these key takeaways, you’ll be able to create a moist and flavorful Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake that’s sure to impress.

A Taste of Home: My Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake Journey

This Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a portal to my childhood. Growing up in Jamaica, the aroma of this cake baking in the oven was a familiar and comforting scent. It signaled family gatherings, celebrations, and the warmth of home.

My grandmother, a master baker, would spend hours lovingly crafting this cake, her kitchen filled with the rich fragrance of rum and raisins. She always said the secret ingredient was love, and I truly believe that’s what makes this cake so special.

Over the years, I’ve refined her recipe, adding a touch of my own flair while preserving its traditional essence. I hope this cake, with its moist crumb and intoxicating rum flavor, brings you the same joy and nostalgia it brings to me.

Tips from the Kitchen

• For a truly authentic flavor, use Jamaican rum. The distinctive notes add a unique depth to the cake.
• Don’t skimp on the raisins! They contribute both flavor and texture.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting and ensure a beautiful finish.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake

With this Jamaican Rum Raisin Cake recipe, you’ve created a masterpiece that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, this moist cake is infused with the rich flavors of Caribbean rum and succulent raisins.

We hope you’ve enjoyed every step of the baking process and can’t wait to hear about your experience. Don’t be shy – share your creations with others and try exploring more of our Caribbean-inspired recipes for a taste of the islands in every bite.