This tropical-inspired Christmas coconut cake offers all the lusciousness of a rum cake—without any actual rum. Instead, creamy coconut elements and rum extract infuse the batter, ensuring you savor the taste of far-off shores. A buttery coconut glaze soaks through the cake, carrying sweet hints of island flavor throughout. With a sprinkle of pecans for crunch and a dusting of shredded coconut for decoration, this Bundt cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. Prepare it in advance, and let the flavors mingle overnight to create a dessert that will have everyone dreaming of a sunny getaway, even in the heart of winter.
In this Bundt cake, the essence of rum emerges without the strong punch of pure spirits. Coconut, extracts, and subtle spice transform a simple boxed mix into something extraordinary. The glaze penetrates the crumb, enhancing its richness and gentle sweetness. A touch of pecans adds an unexpected crunch, while shredded coconut provides a festive finish. Easy enough for novice bakers and enticing enough for experienced cooks, this treat shines as a holiday centerpiece or a luxurious indulgence for any special gathering.
Ingredients For tropical-inspired christmas coconut cake
CAKE
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz [about 430 g])
- 1 package instant vanilla pudding (small package, about 3.4 oz [about 100 g])
- 4 large eggs (about 200 g total)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (about 115 g)
- 3/4 cup cream of coconut (about 180 ml)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (about 120 ml)
- 2 tablespoons rum extract (about 30 ml)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (about 10 ml)
- 2 teaspoons coconut extract (about 10 ml)
- 1 teaspoon butter flavoring (about 5 ml)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (about 60 g)
GLAZE
- 2 tablespoons butter (about 30 g)
- 1 pinch salt (a small pinch)
- 1/8 cup water (about 30 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon rum extract (about 2.5 ml)
- 1/8 cup cream of coconut (about 30 ml)
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (about 40 g)
How To Make tropical-inspired christmas coconut cake
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (about 160°C). Generously grease and flour a Bundt pan (or use nonstick baking spray) and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, softened butter, cream of coconut, and buttermilk. Blend at medium speed for about 3 minutes until smooth.
- Add the rum extract, vanilla extract, coconut extract, and butter flavoring to the batter, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan.
- Pour the batter over the pecans, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan while you prepare the glaze.
- To make the glaze, combine the butter, salt, water, and cream of coconut in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, then continue cooking over medium heat for about 1 minute.
- Remove the glaze from heat and add the rum extract, stirring well.
- Before inverting the cake, use a fork to poke holes in its bottom (while still in the pan).
- Brush some of the glaze onto the bottom of the cake and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb.
- Invert the cake onto a serving plate. Poke holes in the top of the cake with a fork.
- Slowly pour the remaining glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to seep in before adding more, until all the glaze is used.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top. Let the cake sit overnight so that the flavors fully develop and the moisture soaks in. Slice and enjoy.
As you serve this tropical-inspired Christmas coconut cake, take a moment to appreciate the transformation of simple ingredients into something enchanting. Each slice reveals moist, coconut-infused cake enhanced by the gentle whisper of rum extract, a hint of butter flavor, and the finishing touch of a sweet glaze. This cake encourages you to linger over dessert, savoring every bite and imagining yourself transported to an island paradise. Offer it to family and friends, and watch them relish the decadent flavors and textures with delight—an unforgettable treat that brings a taste of the tropics to your holiday celebration. Enjoy!
