Introduction

Key West, Florida, is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and vibrant culture. But there’s another gem that captures the essence of this tropical paradise: Key West Rum Cake. This delectable dessert, rich with the flavors of rum and island spices, has become a beloved treat for both locals and tourists alike. In this article, we’ll dive into the history, ingredients, variations, and tips for enjoying the best Key West Rum Cake.

A Brief History of Rum Cake

Rum cake has its roots in the Caribbean, where rum is a staple ingredient in both cooking and baking. The tradition of soaking cakes in rum dates back to the early settlers who combined European cake recipes with the local rum. Key West, with its close ties to the Caribbean, quickly adopted this delicious tradition, creating its own version of the rum cake that has become iconic.

Ingredients: What Makes Rum Cake Special?

The magic of Rum Cake lies in its ingredients. Here’s what makes it stand out:

1. Dark Rum: The star of the show, dark rum adds depth and richness to the cake. Brands like Key West First Legal Rum are often used to infuse the with a distinct tropical flavor.
2. Butter: High-quality butter ensures a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
3. Sugar: A blend of brown and white sugars creates a caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rum.
4. Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a crunchy texture, balancing the cake’s softness.
5. Island Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bring warmth and a hint of spice, reminiscent of the islands.
6. Rum Glaze: A sweet rum glaze is poured over the cake, soaking into every bite and enhancing the rum flavor.

Variations of Key West Cake

While the classic Key West is a favorite, there are several variations that cater to different tastes:

1. Chocolate Rum Cake: For chocolate lovers, this version adds rich cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the mix, creating a decadent twist on the traditional recipe.
2. Coconut Rum Cake: Coconut flakes are incorporated into the batter, giving the cake a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the rum.
3. Key Lime Rum Cake: A nod to Key West’s famous Key Lime Pie, this variation adds a zesty kick with key lime juice and zest, balancing the sweetness with a touch of tartness.
4. Gluten-Free Rum Cake: For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour blends are used to create a cake that’s just as moist and flavorful as the original.

How to Enjoy Key West

Key West Rum Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

1. As-Is: The cake is delicious on its own, with its moist texture and rich flavor.
2. With Ice Cream: Pairing a slice of rum cake with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream elevates the dessert, creating a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
3. Topped with Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy touch to the dense, flavorful cake.
4. With Coffee or Rum: Enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee or a glass of rum complements the cake’s flavors, making it the perfect after-dinner treat.

Where to Find the Best Rum Cake

Key West is home to several bakeries and shops that specialize in rum cake. Some of the most popular places to find this treat include:

1. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe: Known for their Key Lime Pie, Kermit’s also offers a delicious Key West Rum Cake that’s infused with their signature lime flavor.
2. Key West Cakes: This bakery offers a range of rum cakes, including custom options for special occasions.
3. Old Town Bakery: A local favorite, Old Town Bakery’s rum cake is known for its moist texture and rich flavor, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Making Key West Rum Cake at Home

If you can’t make it to Key West, you can still enjoy this tropical treat by baking it at home. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 small box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup dark rum

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup dark rum

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan, then sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the bottom of the pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, water, oil, and rum. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
3. Pour the batter over the nuts in the pan, then bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
4. While the cake is baking, make the glaze by melting the butter in a saucepan. Stir in the water and sugar, and bring to a boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the rum.
5. When the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Prick the top with a fork, then slowly spoon the glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

Conclusion

Key West Rum Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of paradise that captures the spirit of the islands. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional slice or experimenting with new flavors, this cake is sure to transport you to the sunny shores of Key West with every bite. So the next time you’re craving something sweet, why not indulge in a piece of Key West Rum Cake and experience a taste of the tropics?