Cuban Cake Recipe Easy and Delicious for Every Occasion

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that boasts rich history, vibrant flavors, and a moist, luscious texture, then the Cuban Cake is your perfect match. Known locally as “Torta Cubana,” this cake is a beloved staple in Cuban households and celebrations.

It’s not just any cake—it’s a multi-layered delight featuring a unique blend of spices, tropical citrus, and a luscious rum-infused syrup that keeps every bite flavorful and moist. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this Cuban cake recipe will bring a touch of Caribbean sunshine to your kitchen.

The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it offers. From the subtle tang of lime zest to the warm hints of cinnamon, this cake is a celebration of Cuban culinary tradition.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests at your next gathering or simply treat yourself to a slice of something truly special. Ready to embark on a baking journey that combines culture, flavor, and fun?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cuban cake recipe is a wonderful fusion of moist texture and aromatic spices that come together harmoniously. Unlike many cakes that can feel dry or overly sweet, this one balances sweetness with the brightness of lime and the warming touch of cinnamon and nutmeg.

It’s soaked with a rum syrup that enhances every bite, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a comforting dessert, this cake fits the bill.

It’s also a fantastic conversation starter, as it introduces a piece of Cuban culture to your table.

Finally, the ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, and the steps are simple enough for bakers of all skill levels. If you enjoy classic, layered cakes with a tropical twist, this Cuban cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp freshly grated lime zest
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup dark rum (optional but recommended)
• For the syrup:
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 2 tbsp dark rum
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• For the frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Zester or fine grater
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Saucepan (for the syrup)
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula or butter knife (for frosting)
• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and lime zest.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cakes bake, prepare the rum-lime syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in rum and lime juice. Set aside to cool slightly.
9. Once the cakes are out of the oven, let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then remove them onto a cooling rack. While still warm, poke holes all over the cakes with a skewer or toothpick and brush the rum-lime syrup generously over them.
10. To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating to combine. Mix in lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fluffy.
11. When the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer over the frosting and apply a thin crumb coat all over the cake. Chill for 20 minutes.
12. Apply a final coat of frosting over the cake, smoothing it out with an offset spatula. Garnish with extra lime zest or thin lime slices for a decorative touch.
13. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra tropical twist, try adding finely chopped toasted coconut between the layers or sprinkling some on top of the frosting.”

If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and replace it with additional lime juice or orange juice for a citrusy punch. You can also experiment with adding a splash of pineapple juice to the syrup for a sweeter tropical flavor.

For a richer cake, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour to create a lighter crumb. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter can boost moistness and tenderness.

If you want to make this cake gluten-free, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be sure to check the blend’s recommended substitutions.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Cuban cake is delicious served on its own with a cup of Cuban coffee or a strong black coffee to balance the sweetness. For a decadent treat, try it with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream.

It also pairs wonderfully with fresh tropical fruits such as pineapple slices, mango, or passion fruit. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or edible flowers to create an eye-catching dessert plate.

For festive occasions, serve alongside other Cuban-inspired dishes or as the star dessert at your next party.

Interested in more recipes with vibrant flavors? Check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or dive into the refreshing A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals.

Conclusion

This Cuban cake recipe is a true celebration of flavor and culture. Its moist, spiced layers soaked in rum-lime syrup create a dessert that is both comforting and exciting.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to add a Caribbean flair to your dessert table, this cake won’t disappoint.

With easy-to-find ingredients, straightforward steps, and a stunning final look, it’s a fantastic recipe to add to your baking repertoire. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.

And if you love exploring diverse cuisines, be sure to explore more recipes on our site like the Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the delightful Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Happy baking!

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