Rum Cake With Rum Butter Sauce

There are few things that bring my family running to the kitchen like the smell of this incredible rum cake with rum butter sauce baking. With its golden crust, buttery softness, and touch of spiced rum, this cake is a treat that feels both indulgent and comforting. I love making it as a surprise for the family—especially on weekends or when we have friends over. It’s the kind of dessert that everyone reaches for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

I first tried this recipe when I wanted something that was easy to throw together yet would feel special. It’s become a go-to because it’s foolproof but still has that “wow” factor, especially with the silky rum butter sauce drizzled over the top. Every time I pour the sauce over the warm cake, it fills every nook and cranny, making each bite moist and flavorful. My family loves it, and I know yours will too!

What I really appreciate is that this rum cake is even better the next day—the flavors develop overnight, making it even more irresistible. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple yet unforgettable, this rum cake will be an instant favorite.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Q: Can I use a different type of rum?
A: Yes! Spiced rum is my favorite for this recipe because it adds warmth, but dark rum works well too. Feel free to experiment with what you have.

Q: Is this cake safe for kids?
A: Most of the alcohol bakes out in the cake, leaving just the flavor. If you’re concerned, you can also simmer the rum sauce a bit longer to cook off more alcohol.

Q: Can I make this without alcohol?
A: Definitely! Substitute rum extract in both the cake and sauce to keep the flavor without the alcohol.

Q: How long does it keep?
A: Stored in an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh and moist for about five days. It’s even better the day after you make it!

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

What You Need to Make Rum Cake with Rum Butter Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 box yellow cake mix

1 package instant vanilla pudding mix

4 large eggs

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup spiced rum

For the Rum Butter Sauce:

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup water

1/4 cup spiced rum

Special Equipment:

Bundt cake pan

Mixing bowl

Saucepan

Whisk

How to Make Rum Cake with Rum Butter Sauce

Mix the Batter: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, and rum. Beat until smooth.

Bake the Cake: Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.

Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and water, and bring to a boil. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add the rum carefully.

Glaze the Cake: Poke small holes all over the cake with a skewer. Gradually pour the sauce over the cake, letting it soak in.

Serve and Enjoy: Allow the cake to sit for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Best Rum Cake with Rum Butter Sauce

Go for Spiced Rum: It brings out a cozy warmth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

More Holes, More Flavor: The more holes you poke, the better the sauce will soak into the cake.

Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for prepping ahead for gatherings!

Adjust the Rum in the Sauce: If you’d like less of a rum flavor in the sauce, simmer it longer to cook off more alcohol.

Store Properly: Keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This cake was fantastic! Moist, flavorful, and super easy to make. My whole family loved it.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious! I might add a bit more rum next time for an extra kick. Perfect with coffee!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made this for a party, and it was a huge hit. It was even better the next day!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really tasty! I used dark rum and it was perfect. Next time I’ll make a double batch!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Best rum cake I’ve ever had. The sauce makes it truly indulgent!”

Printable Recipe

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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!

This rum cake recipe is too good to keep to yourself! If you love it as much as we do, share it with friends, family, and fellow bakers on social media. There’s something so rewarding about sharing a favorite recipe with others—especially one that brings as many smiles as this one!