Rum Raisin Christmas Cake is like the warm hug on a chilly winter evening, with its rich, spiced aroma wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: luscious raisins soaked in rum, dancing merrily amidst a dense, moist cake that’s practically begging for a slice. gingerbread latte cupcakes It’s not just dessert; it’s a holiday tradition wrapped in nostalgia and topped with a sprinkle of joy.
Ah, Christmas time! The season where the air is filled with laughter, the smell of pine trees, and that magical moment when you unwrap presents (or maybe just snacks) under twinkling lights. This cake has been part of my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. Each bite brings back fond memories of bustling kitchens and cozy conversations with loved ones over steaming mugs of cocoa. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just indulging in some self-care, this Rum Raisin Christmas Cake is your ticket to flavor town. For more inspiration, check out this Easter Shortbread Cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for holiday baking novices.
- Its unique flavor profile offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- With its rich texture and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests at any holiday gathering.
- Not just for Christmas, this versatile recipe can be enjoyed year-round at any celebration or get-together.
Ingredients for Rum Raisin Christmas Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Raisins: Use plump raisins for the best texture; soak them in rum overnight for maximum flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; make sure to sift it for lightness.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and caramel notes; dark brown sugar works wonders in this recipe.
- Spices: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives this cake its festive warmth.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully; always check the expiration date!
- Unsalted Butter: For richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Eggs: Bind everything together; use large eggs for consistency.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Rum Raisin Christmas Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Raisins
Start by soaking your raisins in a generous splash of rum. Let them sit overnight if possible—this helps them absorb all that glorious flavor.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or round cake tin; you don’t want your masterpiece sticking!
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk until well blended—your kitchen should smell like a cozy winter wonderland already.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until fluffy. The mix should look like clouds on a sunny day—light and airy!
Step 5: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time into the buttery goodness while beating continuously. If you accidentally drop some shell in there (Oops!), don’t panic! Just fish it out like the pros do.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring gently. Fold in those lovely rum-soaked raisins last—this step guarantees they’ll be evenly distributed throughout your cake.
Transfer to your prepared pan and bake for about an hour or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving—you don’t want to burn your tongue on that first heavenly bite!
And there you have it! A moist and flavorful Rum Raisin Christmas Cake that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). Enjoy with friends or just treat yourself; after all, you deserve it!
You Must Know
- This delightful Rum Raisin Christmas Cake offers a warm, spiced flavor that embodies the holiday spirit.
- With its moist texture and rich aroma, it’s a festive delight perfect for sharing.
- You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile dessert for any gathering.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking your raisins in rum to infuse them with flavor. While that’s happening, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Next, mix in the eggs and dry ingredients. Finally, fold in the rum-soaked raisins before baking for that perfect festive touch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out raisins for other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots if you’re looking for a twist. Adding spices such as nutmeg or ginger can elevate the flavor even more. Top with a simple glaze or powdered sugar to enhance its appearance.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Rum Raisin Christmas Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently in the microwave for a cozy treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect Rum Raisin Christmas Cake, remember to soak your raisins overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep your cake light and airy.
- And don’t skimp on letting it cool completely before slicing; it’ll hold together better!
There was this one time I made this cake for a family gathering, and my aunt declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now that’s some serious praise from someone who rarely enjoys dessert!
FAQs:
What is Rum Raisin Christmas Cake?
Rum Raisin Christmas Cake is a traditional holiday dessert that combines rich flavors of rum-soaked raisins, spices, and a moist cake base. This festive treat often includes nuts and candied fruits, making it a delightful addition to any holiday table. peppermint cake for festivities The rum not only adds depth to the flavor but also helps preserve the cake, allowing it to be enjoyed over several weeks. This cake is perfect for gatherings and pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
How do I store Rum Raisin Christmas Cake?
To keep your Rum Raisin Christmas Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. You can also refrigerate the cake to extend its shelf life. If you want to enjoy the cake later, consider freezing it. Ensure it’s well-wrapped in foil or freezer-safe wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Can I make Rum Raisin Christmas Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making Rum Raisin Christmas Cake ahead of time enhances its flavors as they meld together during storage. Prepare the cake at least one week before your event; this allows the rum to penetrate the cake fully. Just remember to keep it wrapped properly so it stays moist and flavorful. If you want even more pronounced flavors, you can feed the cake with additional rum every few days until serving.
What ingredients are needed for Rum Raisin Christmas Cake?
To create a delicious Rum Raisin Christmas Cake, you’ll need basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Additionally, you’ll require raisins soaked in rum, mixed spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and optional ingredients like nuts and candied fruits for added texture and flavor. delicious cranberry Christmas cake The combination of these ingredients results in a rich and festive cake that’s perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
Conclusion for Rum Raisin Christmas Cake:
In summary, Rum Raisin Christmas Cake is a delightful holiday dessert that brings together rich flavors and festive cheer. By preparing this cake ahead of time and using quality ingredients like rum-soaked raisins, you can create a memorable treat that will impress your guests. cranberry cake with orange glaze Storing it correctly ensures that each slice remains moist and flavorful for weeks. Enjoy this festive classic with loved ones during the holiday season!
Rum Raisin Christmas Cake
Experience the cozy warmth of the holiday season with this Rum Raisin Christmas Cake. Bursting with spiced flavor and rich, moist texture, this cake features plump raisins soaked in rum, creating a delightful treat perfect for festive gatherings or quiet indulgence. Easy to make and sure to impress, it’s a nostalgic dessert that brings family together, making every bite a cherished memory.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients
- 1 cup raisins (soaked in 1/2 cup rum)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Soak the raisins in rum overnight for optimal flavor infusion.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or round cake tin.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Fold in the soaked raisins.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg




[…] hazelnut cream, topped with a decadent chocolate ganache that glistens like a Christmas ornament. rum raisin Christmas cake The aroma wafts through the house, wrapping you in a warm hug of holiday cheer. You can almost hear […]