In the world of investing, the allure of passive income is a dream for many. However, this dream doesn't have to remain elusive. Today, we bring you news of two exceptional businesses that could offer you bountiful cash returns for the rest of your life.

Leading the pack is Enterprise Products Partners (NYSE: EPD), a stalwart in the energy-services sector. With an impressive track record of increasing its annual cash payout to investors for 25 consecutive years, this energy infrastructure titan currently boasts a dependable 7% yield.

Enterprise owns and operates a vast network of pipelines, processing plants, and deepwater docks, facilitating the transportation of oil and natural gas across North America and international markets. Its expansive infrastructure, comprising over 50,000 miles of pipelines and storage capacity of 300 million barrels, plays a critical role in the delivery of cost-effective fuels and refined products to customers.

What sets Enterprise apart is its ability to consistently generate cash flow, regardless of market fluctuations. With volume-based contracts and a largely fee-based business model, the company remains insulated from the typical volatility in oil and gas prices.

As a master limited partnership (MLP), Enterprise is designed to pass its profits on to investors through generous cash distributions. Currently, the company has $6.8 billion worth of expansion projects in the pipeline, poised to further enhance its cash production. This ensures that dividend payments are not only sustained but likely to increase in the years ahead.

Enterprise's future growth is powered by formidable global trends. Projected population growth and rising living standards are expected to drive demand for oil and petroleum-based products. Additionally, the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is anticipated to lead to increased electricity usage, and consequently, higher demand for natural gas. Enterprise aims to meet these demands while consistently delivering dividend growth to its investors.

Moreover, for investors seeking an even larger passive income stream, Ares Capital (NASDAQ: ARCC) is a standout choice. As the largest publicly traded business development company (BDC) in the U.S., Ares specializes in providing cash to private middle-market businesses.

Middle-market businesses, accounting for approximately one-third of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) and over $10 trillion in annual revenue, often face limited options when it comes to obtaining financing. Ares Capital capitalizes on this inefficiency, offering loans to these underserved companies. By catering to this untapped market, Ares has been rewarded with average yields on its investments exceeding 10% in recent years.

Contrary to concerns about increased risk, Ares is highly prudent in its lending practices. The company carefully selects high-quality borrowers with strong competitive positions, dependable profits, and proven management. Additionally, it strategically diversifies its loans and investments across a range of defensive industries. As of December 31, Ares' $22.9 billion portfolio encompassed debt and equity positions in 505 businesses.

One of the notable advantages of investing in Ares is its status as a BDC, which requires the company to distribute at least 90% of its loan and investment income to investors each year. This proven wealth-building formula has resulted in market-beating returns of 13% annually for shareholders since Ares' initial public offering (IPO) in 2004.

While both Enterprise Products Partners and Ares Capital present enticing investment opportunities, it's important to note that the Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team does not currently include Ares Capital among their top picks. Instead, they have identified 10 other stocks that they believe could produce substantial returns in the coming years.

For investors looking for guidance and growth opportunities, the Stock Advisor service offers a comprehensive blueprint for success. With regular updates from analysts and two new stock recommendations every month, the service has consistently outperformed the S&P 500 since 2002.

Investing in high-quality dividend stocks like Enterprise Products Partners and Ares Capital can open the doors to a reliable passive income stream. However, as with any investment, it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consider multiple factors before making a decision.

Please note that Joe Tenebruso has no position in any of the stocks mentioned, and the Motley Fool recommends Enterprise Products Partners.