Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake Recipe
Introduction
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake is a decadent and rich dessert that is perfect for special occasions and celebrations. The combination of rum-soaked raisins and a buttery cake base creates a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that is sure to impress your guests.
History
The origins of Rum and Raisin Cake can be traced back to traditional British fruitcakes, which were often made with dried fruits soaked in alcohol. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, with different types of alcohol and fruits being used. The addition of rum-soaked raisins adds a unique twist to the classic fruitcake, making it a popular choice for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups golden raisins, chopped
- 0.25 cup light rum
- 3 cups flour
- 0.5 tsp baking powder
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 1.25 cups butter, softened
- 2.75 cups sugar
- 5 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 cup cream
How to prepare
- Combine raisins and rum; cover and let stand until the rum is absorbed.
- In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, blend butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla on low speed.
- Beat on high speed for 5 minutes, scraping down the sides often.
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with cream.
- Stir in the raisins and pour the batter into baking pans.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake as follows: for a 12-cup bundt pan, bake for 70 to 80 minutes; for 2 6-cup bundt pans, bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Note that this cake will become very brown on top.
- Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pans.
- Brush the cake with the rum and butter glaze.
- Allow the cake to absorb the glaze, then repeat until all the glaze is used up.
Glaze
- In a saucepan, melt 0.5 cup of butter.
- Add 1 cup of sugar and 0.5 cup of water.
- Boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 0.5 cup of rum.
- Allow the glaze to cool slightly.
Variations
- Substitute the golden raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added texture and crunch.
- Experiment with different types of alcohol such as brandy or whiskey for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to chop the golden raisins into small pieces to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
- Be sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to create a tender and moist cake.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before brushing on the rum and butter glaze to ensure it absorbs the flavors evenly.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh and moist for several days.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is essential for creating a tender and moist cake.
- Alternating the dry ingredients with the cream ensures that the cake batter is well mixed and has a smooth consistency.
- Brushing the rum and butter glaze onto the warm cake allows it to absorb the flavors and stay moist.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have rum on hand, you can substitute it with brandy or whiskey for a different flavor profile.
- You can use regular raisins instead of golden raisins if preferred.
- Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious.
Presentation Ideas
Dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch. - Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color. - Serve slices of cake on decorative plates for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert experience. It also goes well with a glass of dessert wine or a creamy liqueur for a more indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake contains approximately 20 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake is a good source of iron, vitamin A, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (butter, cream, eggs) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.
Summary
Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions and celebrations. With its rich flavors and moist texture, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy a slice of this decadent cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat that will leave you craving more.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My mother used to bake this cake every Christmas, and I would watch her in awe as she mixed the ingredients together with such love and care.
One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching my mother work her magic, I asked her where she had learned to make such a delicious cake. She smiled and told me that the recipe had been passed down to her from her own mother, my grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago.
Intrigued, I asked my mother if she could teach me how to make the cake. She happily agreed, and together we spent the afternoon baking, laughing, and sharing stories. As we worked, my mother told me about the friend who had given her the recipe – a kind old woman named Mrs. Jenkins who lived on the edge of town.
Mrs. Jenkins was known throughout the village for her delicious baked goods, and my mother had always admired her skill in the kitchen. One day, while visiting Mrs. Jenkins to borrow a cup of sugar, my mother had mentioned her love for rum and raisin cake, and Mrs. Jenkins had insisted on sharing her recipe.
As my mother recounted the story, I could see the twinkle in her eye as she remembered the generosity of Mrs. Jenkins and the joy of learning a new recipe. I knew then that I wanted to continue this tradition of passing down recipes through the generations.
Over the years, I have made this Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake countless times, each time with a sense of pride and nostalgia. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own special touch, but the essence of the cake remains the same – rich, moist, and full of warm holiday spices.
Every Christmas, as I take a bite of the cake and savor the flavors of rum-soaked raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg, I am transported back to that kitchen table where I first learned to bake with my mother. I can almost hear her laughter and feel her gentle guidance as I mix the ingredients together with care and love.
As I pass the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past, to bring us together in the present, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And so, this Holiday Rum and Raisin Cake will always hold a special place in my heart, a symbol of family, tradition, and the joy of baking.
Categories
| Cake Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Egg Recipes | Golden Raisin Recipes | Holiday Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Rum Recipes | White Rum Recipes |