Costa Rican Raisin Cake

Dive into the heart of Central America with this irresistible Costa Rican Raisin Cake, a moist and aromatic dessert that brings vibrant tropical flavors to your table. Infused with plump raisins soaked in dark rum, this cake is elevated by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a richly spiced treat perfect for any occasion. The tender crumb is achieved through the delicate balance of buttery sweetness and a splash of milk, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish. Whether served alongside a steaming cup of coffee or enjoyed on its own, this easy-to-make cake is a delightful way to experience Costa Rican-inspired baking in your own kitchen.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.75 cups unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup brown sugar
• 3 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup raisins
• 0.25 cup dark rum
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a small bowl, combine the raisins and dark rum. Allow them to soak while you prepare the cake batter, stirring occasionally.

Step 3

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4

In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 6

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

Step 7

Drain the raisins and gently fold them into the batter.

Step 8

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top using a spatula.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 10

Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11

Optionally, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.

Step 12

Slice and enjoy your Costa Rican Raisin Cake with a cup of coffee or tea.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1307.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3805.6

Total Fat 95.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 50.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 766.0mg	0%
Sodium 1876.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 662.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.0g	0%
Total Sugars 403.9g
Protein 64.0g	0%

Vitamin D 230.4IU	0%
Calcium 636.5mg	0%
Iron 20.2mg	0%
Potassium 2246.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.8%

Protein: 6.8%

Carbs: 70.4%