Are you craving a moist, tender cake that's bursting with rich flavor and a hint of sophisticated rum? Look no further! This Rum Butter Cake recipe is the perfect answer for those seeking a delicious yet easy dessert. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's the perfect homemade treat for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional, can substitute with extra vanilla or almond extract)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake comes out easily and prevents sticking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for extra insurance.
Making the Batter:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender cake, so take your time! An electric mixer makes this step much easier.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and rum (if using).
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
Baking and Cooling:
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Rum Butter Cake Glaze (Optional):
For an extra touch of indulgence, try this simple glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons dark rum (or milk/cream)
- A pinch of salt
Whisk together the powdered sugar, rum (or milk/cream), and salt until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Tips for the Best Rum Butter Cake:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let it cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
Variations:
- Lemon Rum Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Chocolate Rum Cake: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a decadent chocolate flavor.
- Spiced Rum Cake: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a warm, spiced cake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 18-20g Sugar: Approximately 30-35g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy rum butter cake recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. The moist texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleasing dessert that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious homemade treat!