Can We Eat That
← Back to search
⚠️CautionCurated

Rum Cake

Rum cake can actually retain a significant amount of alcohol, especially if the rum is added after baking rather than baked in. A generous slice of a rum-soaked cake could contain a meaningful amount of alcohol. Enjoy a small piece and consider timing if you know the recipe uses a lot of rum.

Small portions likely fine; account for alcohol if recipe uses substantial post-bake rum application
Unlike sauces or braises where alcohol evaporates during prolonged heat, rum cakes are often made by pouring rum over the finished baked cake (or using a rum syrup), which means much of the alcohol is retained. Depending on the recipe and how liberally the rum is applied, a large slice could contain the equivalent of a fraction of a standard drink or more. A small taste or modest slice is unlikely to be a concern, but eating large amounts of a heavily rum-saturated cake warrants the same 2-hour timing consideration as a drink.
Sources: USDA, LactMed

Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.

Was this helpful?