Description
Moist, tropical, and packed with warm island flavor, this Jamaican-Inspired Coconut Rum Cake is a dessert that brings sunshine to any table. Infused with coconut and a sweet, spiced glaze, this rich cake is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you’re simply craving a slice of paradise. It’s buttery, soft, and drenched in flavor—without the use of alcohol—making it a family-friendly treat everyone can enjoy.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1¾ cups granulated sugar
-
4 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp coconut extract
-
2½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tbsp baking powder
-
½ tsp salt
-
1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
-
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
-
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
For the Coconut “Rum” Glaze:
-
½ cup coconut milk
-
½ cup sugar
-
¼ cup butter
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp rum-flavored extract (non-alcoholic)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan & Oven
-
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
-
Generously grease and flour a bundt pan, making sure to get all the crevices.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
-
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
-
Stir in vanilla and coconut extracts.
Step 3: Mix Dry & Wet Ingredients
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
-
In another bowl, combine coconut milk and yogurt.
-
Add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture in 3 parts, alternating with the coconut milk mixture.
-
Fold in the shredded coconut at the end until just combined.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
-
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
-
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
-
Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
-
In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and butter over medium heat.
-
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and rum-flavored extract.
Step 6: Soak & Serve
-
While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork.
-
Slowly pour or brush the glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
-
Let the cake rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. For best flavor, let it sit for several hours or overnight.
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth, even batter.
Grease the Pan Well – This cake is sticky from the glaze, so prep your pan carefully.
Don’t Overmix – Fold gently when adding flour and coconut to keep the cake light.
Glaze Slowly – Pour a little at a time to allow it to soak fully.
Make Ahead – This cake gets even better the next day as the flavors intensify.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cuisine: Caribbean-Inspired