About this recipe

A showstopping Caribbean-style rum cake with a tender, buttery crumb soaked in a rich rum-butter glaze. Made with a yellow cake base, dark rum, and a classic Bundt presentation, this is the kind of dessert that lingers on the table long after dinner — just like a beach sunset. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want to bring island warmth home.

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to ![325°F]. Generously grease and flour a Bundt pan. Sprinkle the pecans evenly across the bottom of the pan — they'll form a crunchy, toasty layer on top once the cake is inverted.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, Instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, cold water, vegetable oil, and dark rum. Beat with a stand mixer or hand mixer on ^[medium speed] for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined. Pour the batter evenly over the pecans in the prepared Bundt pan.

3. 3

   Bake at ![325°F] for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes before glazing.

4. 4

   While the cake bakes, make the glaze: melt the butter in a small saucepan over ^[medium heat]. Stir in the water and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the dark rum and vanilla extract (the mixture will bubble up). Let cool slightly.

5. 5

   With the cake still in the pan, use a toothpick or bamboo skewer to poke holes all over the bottom of the warm cake. Slowly pour about half of the warm rum glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in fully. Let sit for 5 minutes.

6. 6

   Invert the cake onto a serving plate. Use a pastry brush or spoon to slowly apply the remaining glaze over the top and sides of the cake, letting each addition soak in before adding more. Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before slicing — the glaze will set into a gorgeous, shiny coating.