Southern Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

The Butter Rum Pound Cake recipe comes from a classic Southern tradition that highlights rich, buttery flavors combined with the warmth of dark rum.

Inspiration for making this Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe came from seeing it featured in a beloved baking blog, where the combination of orange zest, cinnamon, and rum captured my attention.

This Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe stands out for its moist texture and the luscious rum glaze that enhances every bite. The recipe blends simple ingredients with a few special touches, creating a delightful cake that brings comforting flavors to the table.

Next, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe.

Butter Rum Pound Cake recipe

This Butter Rum Pound Cake recipe blends classic baking with distinctive flavors of dark rum, fresh orange zest, and a touch of cinnamon. The use of melted butter, cream, and milk creates a soft, moist texture that melts in your mouth.

The rum-infused glaze adds a sweet, smooth layer that seeps into the cake, boosting its richness. Made with everyday ingredients and simple techniques, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels.

The result is a flavorful and satisfying cake that works well as a comforting dessert or a delightful treat to share with friends and family.

How To Prepare Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe?

To make this Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe just right, I’ll walk you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips.

I’ve included a list of kitchen tools that make the process smoother, but don’t worry if you don’t have them all simple tools will work fine. Follow along, and you’ll bake a rich, flavorful cake that’s sure to impress!

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 60 minutes

Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Course: Dessert / Snack

Cuisine: American / Classic Southern-style cake

Yield: 10 servings

Kitchen Utensils

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Electric mixer or hand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Loaf pan (9×5 inch recommended)
  • Cooling rack
  • Small bowl for glaze
  • Spoon or small whisk (for glaze)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon dark rum
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1¼ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Rum Glaze

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons dark rum
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe
Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

How To Make Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

1. First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it well and dusting it lightly with flour or you can line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake later.

2. Next, grab a medium bowl and whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This helps spread the spices and leavening evenly throughout the batter.

3. Now, in a bigger bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Slowly add the melted butter (make sure it’s cooled down), vanilla, orange zest, heavy cream, milk, and a good splash of dark rum. Mix everything until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overdo it here.

4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix using a spatula. Just mix until you don’t see any streaks of flour over mixing can make your cake dense, and we want it nice and tender.

5. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top with your spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

6. While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, and dark rum in a small bowl to make the glaze. Adjust the amount of rum so the glaze is smooth but still pourable.

7. When the cake comes out of the oven, and it’s still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork. Slowly drizzle the rum glaze over the cake, letting it soak in beautifully. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts Of Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories320
Fat15g
Carbohydrates40g
Protein4g
Sugar25g

Why We Love This Recipe

We love this Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe because it combines comforting, classic flavors with a unique twist of rum and citrus that makes it special.

The Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe rich, buttery texture pairs perfectly with the warm spices and subtle sweetness of the glaze.  It feels like a cozy treat that’s both satisfying and elegant.

The balance of flavors creates a memorable dessert that feels homemade and thoughtful, making it perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying during quiet moments. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both timeless and inviting.

Why My Recipe Works

My Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe works because it carefully balances ingredients to create a tender, flavorful cake with just the right moisture and texture.

The combination of butter, cream, and milk keeps the crumb soft, while the addition of rum and orange zest adds depth and brightness.

Proper mixing and baking times ensure the cake rises evenly without becoming dense. The glaze not only adds sweetness but also enhances the rum flavor, making the cake more complex.

Each step is designed to bring out the best in every ingredient, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dessert every time.

Top Baking Tips

1. Measure ingredients precisely: Baking is a science, so use the correct measuring tools for dry and wet ingredients. Too much flour or sugar can ruin texture and taste.

2. Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs, butter, and milk blend more easily at room temperature, creating a smoother batter and better rise.

3. Always preheat your oven: A fully preheated oven ensures even baking from the start, preventing uneven cooking or under baking.

4. Avoid over mixing the batter: Stir just until ingredients combine to keep your baked goods tender. Over mixing develops gluten and can make cakes tough.

5. Use fresh leavening agents: Baking powder and baking soda lose effectiveness over time, so check freshness to ensure proper rise.

6. Prepare your pans properly: Greasing and flouring pans or lining with parchment paper prevents sticking and helps cakes release easily.

7. Check for doneness early: Start testing with a toothpick or cake tester a few minutes before the timer ends to avoid over baking and dryness.

Health Benefits Of Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

This Butter Rum Pound Cake, while a delicious treat, offers some benefits from its key ingredients. The eggs provide protein and essential vitamins, while the orange zest adds a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.

The cinnamon included can help with blood sugar regulation and has anti-inflammatory properties. Although it’s a dessert best enjoyed in moderation, these natural ingredients add a small nutritional boost alongside the rich, comforting flavors.

Serving Ideas Butter Rum Pound Cake

With Fresh Fruit: Serve slices alongside fresh berries, sliced oranges, or a tropical fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla or rum raisin ice cream to elevate the dessert.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze: Warm a little extra rum glaze and drizzle over each slice just before serving for an indulgent touch.

With Coffee or Tea: Pair your cake with a strong cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the rum and cinnamon flavors.

Layered Dessert: Cut the cake into cubes and layer it in a trifle bowl with custard, fruit, and whipped cream for an impressive dessert.

Variations Of Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

Chocolate Chip Delight: Gently fold ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking. The chips melt slightly, creating rich pockets of chocolate throughout the cake, adding a sweet surprise with every bite.

Maple Rum Glaze: Swap the dark rum in the glaze for pure maple syrup. This change brings a warm, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the buttery cake, giving it a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.

Pineapple Rum Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of well-drained crushed pineapple into the batter. The pineapple adds moisture and a tropical sweetness that complements the rum, making the cake extra juicy and flavorful.

Ginger Spice Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger and ½ teaspoon of ground ginger to the dry ingredients. This combination introduces a lively, warming spice that balances the sweetness and adds complexity.

Berry Swirl Surprise: Fold in a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries gently into the batter and lightly swirl them before pouring into the pan. The berries burst during baking, adding vibrant color and a tart contrast to the rich cake.

How Do I Store This Cake?

To keep this Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe fresh and delicious, I like to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

It stays moist for about 3-4 days that way. If you want it to last longer, placing it in the fridge works well, but be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

I’ve also had great results freezing slices wrapped individually just thaw them gently when you’re ready to enjoy!

FAQs about Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

Can I substitute light rum for dark rum?

Yes, you can use light rum if that’s what you have on hand. However, dark rum provides a richer, more robust flavor with caramel and molasses notes that enhance the cake’s depth, so dark rum is preferred for the fullest taste.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely. You can replace whole milk and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut cream. Keep in mind, this might slightly affect the cake’s richness and texture but will still produce a tasty result.

How long will this cake stay fresh once baked?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the Butter Rum Pound Cake remains moist and fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Refrigerating can extend its life to about a week but may dry it out slightly if not well wrapped.

Can I freeze Butter Rum Pound Cake for later use?

Yes, freezing works well. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

What if I don’t have granulated sugar can I use something else?

Granulated sugar is ideal for this recipe because it dissolves well and gives the right texture. If you don’t have it, superfine sugar is a good substitute since it blends smoothly. Avoid coarse sugars like raw sugar as they may not dissolve fully in the batter.

Conclusion

This Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe was simple to make and the results were absolutely delicious. I loved how the cake turned out moist and full of rich flavors from the rum and orange zest.

Baking Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe was a joyful experience, especially seeing how the glaze made it even better. I hope you try this recipe soon and enjoy every step of the process like I did.

When you do, please share how tasty it was I’m excited to hear your thoughts and how much you enjoyed Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe!

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Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

Sophia
Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe is a rich, moist dessert infused with the warm flavor of rum and buttery goodness. Made with classic pound cake ingredients—flour, sugar, butter, and eggs—it’s elevated by rum in both the batter and a luscious glaze. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, it delivers a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dessert / Snack
Cuisine American / Classic Southern-style cake
Servings 10 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Electric mixer or hand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Loaf pan (9×5 inch recommended)
  • Cooling rack
  • Small bowl for glaze
  • Spoon or small whisk (for glaze)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 tablespoons 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon dark rum
  • 3 large eggs at room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Rum Glaze

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons dark rum
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions
 

  • First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it well and dusting it lightly with flour or you can line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake later.
  • Next, grab a medium bowl and whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This helps spread the spices and leavening evenly throughout the batter.
  • Now, in a bigger bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Slowly add the melted butter (make sure it’s cooled down), vanilla, orange zest, heavy cream, milk, and a good splash of dark rum. Mix everything until it’s well combined, but be careful not to overdo it here.
  • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix using a spatula. Just mix until you don’t see any streaks of flour over mixing can make your cake dense, and we want it nice and tender.
  • Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top with your spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  • While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, and dark rum in a small bowl to make the glaze. Adjust the amount of rum so the glaze is smooth but still pourable.
  • When the cake comes out of the oven, and it’s still warm, poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork. Slowly drizzle the rum glaze over the cake, letting it soak in beautifully. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Nutrition Facts Of Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe

Nutrition Amounts
Calories 320
Fat 15g
Carbohydrates 40g
Protein 4g
Sugar 25g
Keyword Butter Rum Pound Cake Recipe
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Hi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.

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