Bold flavors and a boozy kick make this Jamaican Rum Fruit Cake a standout dessert. Perfect for holidays or any day you’re craving something sweet with a tropical twist.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of dried fruits soaked in rum delivers deep, complex flavors that mature over time.
- Using a mix of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice adds warmth and authenticity to the cake.
- The slow baking process ensures a moist, dense texture that’s characteristic of traditional Jamaican fruit cake.
- Brushing the baked cake with additional rum enhances its flavor and preserves it for weeks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped prunes)
- 1 cup dark rum, plus extra for brushing
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Wire rack
Instructions
Soak the Fruits
Combine the mixed dried fruits with 1 cup of dark rum in a bowl. Cover and let soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours, to allow the fruits to absorb the rum. This step is crucial for infusing the cake with its signature flavor.
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line the cake pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices, then gradually fold into the butter mixture. Stir in the soaked fruits and any remaining rum.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The low temperature ensures the cake cooks evenly without drying out.
Add the Finishing Touches
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately brush the top with additional rum. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step adds moisture and enhances the cake’s rum flavor.
Serve and Store
Slice the cake and serve at room temperature. For best flavor, wrap the cooled cake in rum-soaked cheesecloth and store in an airtight container for a few days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more intense flavor, consider soaking the fruits for up to a week. The longer they soak, the more rum they’ll absorb, making the cake incredibly moist and flavorful. If you’re short on time, heating the rum and fruits together for a few minutes can speed up the soaking process. Always use a toothpick to test for doneness, as the dense texture can be deceptive. Finally, storing the cake properly is key to maintaining its moisture and flavor over time.
Recipe Variations
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the rum with apple juice or strong brewed tea.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
- Incorporate citrus zest from oranges or lemons to brighten the cake’s flavor profile.
- Experiment with different dried fruits such as apricots, cherries, or figs for a unique twist.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake without alcohol?
Absolutely! While the rum is traditional, you can replace it with apple juice, orange juice, or even strong brewed tea for a non-alcoholic version. The key is to soak the fruits to achieve that moist texture, so don’t skip that step.
How long can I store the cake?
Properly stored in an airtight container, this cake can last for up to a month. The rum acts as a preservative, and the flavors actually improve over time. Just make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it. This makes it a great make-ahead dessert for special occasions.
Summary
This Jamaican Rum Fruit Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich blend of spices, rum-soaked fruits, and dense texture, it’s a true tropical delight that gets better with time.