Holiday Rum Bundt Cake
There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through the house, especially during the holiday season. Among my favorite indulgences is the Holiday Rum Bundt Cake. This delectable dessert artfully combines the rich flavors of rum and moist cake, making it a show-stopper at family gatherings and festive occasions. The sweetness of the glaze paired with the subtle warmth of golden rum creates a truly memorable dessert experience. If you’re looking for a cake that not only tastes divine but also brings a festive spirit to your table, this is the one!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Holiday Rum Bundt Cake offers a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy holiday schedules. The use of a yellow cake mix and instant pudding means that most of the hard work is already done, allowing you to focus on the fun of baking! Plus, the addition of rum elevates this cake from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
"Best cake ever! The rum glaze takes it to another level. My family can’t get enough of it during the holidays!" — Happy Baker
Preparing Holiday Rum Bundt Cake
Ready to dive into baking? This cake comes together in no time! You’ll first prepare your bundt pan and preheat your oven while simultaneously mixing up the cake batter. Once it’s baked to golden perfection, the glaze will provide that unforgettable finish. Are you excited? Let’s go through the process step-by-step!
What You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is key to a successful bake. Here’s what you’ll require to whip up this fantastic Holiday Rum Bundt Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 package (3.5 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 whole eggs
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup golden rum or gold rum
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup rum
Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or leave them out altogether if you prefer a nut-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions

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Prepare your bundt pan by spraying it generously with cooking spray. If you’re using pecans, sprinkle them on the bottom of the pan for a crunchy surprise.
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Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, water, oil, and rum. Mix until smooth.
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Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Prick the top with a fork to help the glaze soak in.
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Prepare the glaze: In a saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the water and sugar, then bring it to a boil for 5 minutes while stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of rum.
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Glaze the cake: Pour the warm glaze evenly over the top and sides of the cake, repeating until it absorbs all of the glaze.
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Serve warm, sliced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for ultimate indulgence.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Holiday Rum Bundt Cake shines on its own, but there are many ways to enhance your serving experience. Try pairing it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness. Alternatively, a dollop of crème fraîche can add a delightful tangy contrast. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for visual appeal and added flavor. It’s perfect for any festive gathering or a cozy night in!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your Holiday Rum Bundt Cake tasting great, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you anticipate not finishing it in a few days, you can also refrigerate it to prolong its freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they should last up to three months. Always ensure proper food handling practices to keep your cake delicious and safe to eat.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider using dark rum instead of golden rum.
- Let your cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from sliding off.
- Feel free to add a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor.
- If you’re up for some experimentation, substitute the yellow cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a decadent twist.
Creative Twists
Want to mix it up? Here are some fun variations you might consider:
- Tropical Twist: Add crushed pineapple to the batter for a fruity flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use a chocolate cake mix and incorporate mini chocolate chips.
- Spiced Rum Cake: Infuse the glaze with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive touch.
Your Questions Answered
- Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors like chocolate or spice mixes.
- How long does it take to prepare? Total preparation time, including baking, is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Can I make this cake in advance? Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day, once the flavors meld together.
This Holiday Rum Bundt Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a way to elevate your seasonal celebrations. With its buttery texture and rich glaze, it will undoubtedly become a household favorite. Happy baking!

Holiday Rum Bundt Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare your bundt pan by spraying it generously with cooking spray. If using pecans, sprinkle them on the bottom of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, water, oil, and rum. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a serving plate and prick the top with a fork.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter, stir in water and sugar, then bring to a boil for 5 minutes while stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 cup of rum, and pour the warm glaze evenly over the cake.
- Serve warm, sliced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for ultimate indulgence.
