Ponche de Creme Pound Cake Recipe: A Caribbean Holiday Delight

21.5.25 | Recipe by Renz


Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of the Caribbean with this Ponche de Creme Pound Cake. A holiday favorite, this cake combines the essence of ponche de creme—a traditional Caribbean drink similar to eggnog—with the buttery goodness of a pound cake. It’s perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends.

   


In the Caribbean, the holidays are all about connection and celebration. We go from house to house, catching up with neighbors and family, sharing laughter, good conversation, and, of course, festive foods.

Ponche de creme is always a staple on the table—a creamy, spiced drink that signals it’s Christmas time. And now, we’re turning that tradition into dessert with this moist, flavorful pound cake.
  

What is Ponche de Creme?


During the holiday season, Ponche de creme is a beloved Caribbean drink, especially in Trinidad and Tobago. Like eggnog but with a unique tropical flair, it’s made with rum, condensed milk, and spices. This recipe captures its flavors in a luscious pound cake, making it a must-have dessert for your holiday table.

Since this is an important part of this recipe, go ahead and make your own ponche de creme. 

Why You’ll Love This Cake


  • Rich Holiday Flavor – Infused with creamy ponche de creme for a Caribbean twist on tradition.
  • Soft and Moist Texture – Thanks to a classic pound cake base and the addition of eggs and butter.
  • Customizable Glaze – Finish it with a festive glaze that can be as bold or subtle as you like.
  • Perfect for Sharing – Whether you’re liming with friends or bringing dessert to a holiday gathering, this cake fits the moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  
Ingredients for making ponche de creme pound cake.

Cake Batter


  • All-purpose flour – The base for structure.
  • Baking soda – A touch of lift without making the cake airy.
  • Butter – Room temperature for easy creaming and moisture.
  • Sugar – For sweetness and structure.
  • Vanilla extract – Balances the richness with flavor.
  • Eggs – Add richness and bind everything together.
  • Ponche de crème – The Caribbean star! Substitute: Use eggnog + splash of rum if needed.

Ponche de Creme Glaze


  • Confectioners’ sugar – For a smooth, pourable glaze.
  • Milk & heavy cream – Combines with sugar for the right consistency.
  • Ponche de crème – Adds more depth and ties the glaze to the cake.


How to Make Ponche de Creme Pound Cake


Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a bundt pan generously and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.

   
Dry ingredients mixed to make the ponche de creme cake.


Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, beat the butter until smooth. Add sugar and cream together until light and fluffy—this gives the cake its soft texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.

Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed, alternate adding the flour and ponche de creme in this order:

  • ⅓ of the flour
  • ½ of the ponche de creme
  • ⅓ of the flour
  • Remaining ponche de creme
  • Remaining flour


    Mix just until combined.

    Step 6: Bake

    Pour the batter into the greased pan and smooth the top.
    Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges pull away slightly and a toothpick comes out clean (internal temp should be around 210°F).

       
    Crust of baked ponche de creme cake in a bundt pan on a creme backdrop.


    Step 7: Cool

    Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully invert onto a wire rack and allow to cool completely before glazing.

    Make the Ponche de Creme Glaze


    1. In a bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and heavy cream until smooth.
    2. Stir in ponche de creme. Adjust the consistency with extra milk, ½ tbsp at a time, until it’s pourable but thick.
    3. Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cake.
      
    Bundt cake on a cake board with a silver bowl of ponche de creme glaze.

    Tips for Success


    • Use room-temperature ingredients – It makes mixing easier and ensures even baking.
    • Don't overmix – Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix until just combined.
    • Check doneness properly – A fast-read thermometer (about 210°F) or a clean toothpick is your best bet.

    FAQs


    Can I use store-bought ponche de creme?
    Yes, store-bought works perfectly, but homemade adds a personal touch.

    What if I don’t have ponche de creme?
    You can substitute eggnog with a splash of rum or omit the alcohol for a family-friendly version.

    How do I store this cake?
    Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

      
    Ponche de creme pound cake with glaze on a white cake stand.

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    Celebrate the holidays Caribbean-style with this indulgent Ponche de Creme Pound Cake. Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below or share your creation on social media!

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