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Catch A Husband Cake is a showstopping Brazilian dessert with a reputation for winning over even the toughest critics. Known for its smooth custard texture and heavenly coconut flavor, this cake is perfect for those occasions when you want something easy yet undeniably impressive. The mix is just one bowl and the finish is always rich and dramatic with a crown of coconut on top.
I remember the first time I baked this cake for my family and they were stunned that something so velvety could take so little effort. It has quickly become a favorite for potlucks and Sunday dinners alike.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk: adds rich sweetness and gives that signature creamy flavor
- Whole milk: balances the cake and keeps batter silky
- Coconut milk: infuses the cake with tropical flavor use canned for creaminess
- All-purpose flour: brings structure to set the custard
- Granulated sugar: enhances sweetness a fine white sugar is best for smooth mixing
- Large eggs: bind everything together and lend richness use the freshest you can find
- Unsalted butter: gives depth always melt it gently for best blending
- Baking powder: ensures a gentle lift check that your powder is fresh for the best rise
- Vanilla extract: ties flavors together choose pure vanilla whenever possible
- Shredded coconut for garnish: brings both crunch and extra coconut flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Grease a bundt pan or an 8x8 baking dish thoroughly making sure to get into all the crevices then dust with flour to prevent sticking
- Mix Batter:
- In a large bowl combine sweetened condensed milk whole milk coconut milk flour sugar eggs melted butter baking powder and vanilla extract whisking until smooth with no lumps left the batter will be thinner than a typical cake do not worry
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan smoothing the top if needed place in the center of a preheated 350 degree oven bake for 45 to 55 minutes until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean
- Cool Cake:
- Let the cake rest in the pan for fifteen to twenty minutes before attempting to remove it the custardy texture sets as it cools which makes unmolding easier
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle shredded coconut across the top for an eye-catching snowy finish slice while slightly warm or at room temperature enjoy plain or with whipped cream
My favorite part of this recipe is watching my kids sneak fingers of shredded coconut as I garnish the cake. The aroma of coconut milk while baking always fills the house with a promise of something special.
Storage Tips
Once cooled wrap leftovers tightly with plastic or place in an airtight container. In hot or humid climates I recommend refrigerating the cake to prevent spoilage. If you want to serve chilled allow slices to sit at room temperature for twenty minutes so the custard texture is just right.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use evaporated milk in place of whole milk but the taste will be slightly less creamy. For a dairy free version swap the butter for coconut oil and use oat milk for whole milk. If you are out of vanilla a drop or two of almond extract is wonderful with coconut.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious all on its own but for an extra touch top with some lightly sweetened whipped cream or drizzle with warm dulce de leche. Fresh berries also make a colorful garnish for summer parties.
Cultural and Historical Context
Catch A Husband Cake also known as Bolo pega marido has roots in Brazilian home baking and its name always makes guests smile. Traditionally it is baked as a testament to the power of simple ingredients in creating memorable flavors that bring people together.
Seasonal Adaptations
Top with fresh mango or passionfruit in summer for a tropical twist In winter serve warm with spiced poached pears Mix lemon or lime zest into the batter for extra brightness This recipe is always a conversation starter and perfect for any gathering. Double it for a crowd or freeze individual slices for a quick treat any time of year.
Success Stories
Many home bakers share that after making Catch A Husband Cake for the first time it becomes their go-to dessert recipe. From birthday parties to potlucks its creamy flavor wins hearts and leaves no leftovers.
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze cool the baked cake completely then wrap slices in parchment and seal in freezer bags. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a few hours and the texture stays remarkably soft.
This unique cake is always an instant hit for gatherings and potlucks. With its creamy coconut flavor and easy prep, it will win over any crowd.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this cake so moist?
The combination of sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and coconut milk creates a rich, custardy texture and extra-moist crumb.
- → Can I use a different pan?
Yes, bake it in a bundt, 8x8 inch dish, or any similarly sized pan, adjusting bake time if needed.
- → How do I know when it's done?
The cake is ready when golden and a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean, usually after 45-55 minutes.
- → Can I add extra coconut inside?
Yes, mixing some shredded coconut into the batter adds extra texture and flavor, or just keep it as garnish.
- → Is this cake best warm or cold?
It's delicious both warm and at room temperature; chilling will give a denser texture, while warm serving is softer.