Cream Cheese Frosting with Kōloa Spice Rum
A cozy, crowd-pleasing frosting perfect for all your sweet treats
This versatile Spice Rum Cream Cheese Frosting is a celebration of flavor that works beautifully year-round—whether you're frosting a carrot cake for Easter, cupcakes in the Fall, or simply adding a special touch to a weekday bake. Infused with Kōloa Spice Rum, it delivers warm, island-inspired notes of cinnamon, baking spices, and sarsaparilla in every creamy, fluffy swirl.
Whether you’re topping cupcakes, layering carrot cake, or spreading it over warm pumpkin bread, this frosting adds a hint of island flair to your classic fall bakes. And the best part? It’s super easy to make.
Fun Fact: Spiced rum was originally crafted by sailors who added spices to help preserve rum during long sea voyages. Today, it brings that same warmth to your favorite desserts!
Servings: Frosts 12–18 cupcakes or a 9x13 cake
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp Kōloa Spice Rum
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp salt
4 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
Instructions
1. Cream Butter & Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes.
Make sure both are fully softened for the smoothest texture.
2. Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
3. Add Rum & Whip:
Add the Kōloa Spice Rum, vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream. Increase mixer speed to medium-high and beat for 2–3 minutes until light, fluffy, and spreadable.
Tip: For a firmer consistency ideal for piping, reduce the cream to 2–3 tablespoons. For a softer, more spreadable texture, use the full 4 tablespoons.
4. Frost & Serve:
Spread generously over cakes, cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, or your favorite fall bakes. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for extra flair.
Why Use Kōloa Spice Rum?
This Hawaiian-crafted rum brings a warm spiced profile with subtle notes of cinnamon, cacao, and root beer-like sassafras. Just a small splash adds complexity and depth, transforming your frosting from simple to unforgettable.
Perfect Pairings:
Carrot Cake
Pumpkin Cupcakes
Cinnamon Rolls
Banana Bread
Apple Spice Muffins
Tips for Success:
Room Temp Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are fully softened.
Too Thick? Add extra cream 1 teaspoon at a time until desired texture.
Too Soft? Chill briefly in the fridge before spreading or piping.
Make Ahead: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Rewhip before using.
Want to share your take or see how others are using it?
Join the conversation in the Community Chat—it’s where flavor, ideas, and island inspiration come together.
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The Island Spirit Kitchen