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Jamaican-inspired Coconut Rum Cake

Jamaican-inspired Coconut Rum Cake


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  • Author: Sophia valmed
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

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.

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Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Generously grease and flour a bundt pan, making sure to get all the crevices.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

  2. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  3. Stir in vanilla and coconut extracts.

Step 3: Mix Dry & Wet Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

  2. In another bowl, combine coconut milk and yogurt.

  3. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture in 3 parts, alternating with the coconut milk mixture.

  4. Fold in the shredded coconut at the end until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.

  2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

  3. Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

  1. In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and butter over medium heat.

  2. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and rum-flavored extract.

Step 6: Soak & Serve

  1. While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork.

  2. Slowly pour or brush the glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

  3. 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