Name: Catch a Husband Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1 cup coconut milk; 3 eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 2 tbsp butter, softened; 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened); Topping:; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup shredded coconut

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Catch a Husband Cake, or Bolo pega-marido in Portuguese, is a beloved Brazilian dessert famous for its rich coconut flavor, ultra-moist texture, and custardy finish. With a creamy batter blended from three types of milk and topped with a sweet coconut glaze, this tropical treat lives up to its playful name by winning over anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is everything a dessert lover could want: moist, sweet, creamy, and packed with coconut flavor. The batter blends up easily in a blender, making prep a breeze, and the texture is a unique cross between a soft cake and flan-like custard. The warm topping soaks into the cake, adding a luscious finish. It’s a no-fuss recipe that feels indulgent yet familiar—perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or a romantic evening at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 cup coconut milk
3 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp butter, softened
1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

Topping:

1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup shredded coconut

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or a standard baking dish.
In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, flour, sugar, and softened butter. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
Fold in the shredded coconut by hand or pulse briefly in the blender just to incorporate.
Pour the batter into the greased pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.
While the cake bakes, prepare the topping: in a small saucepan over low heat, combine coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut. Stir until just warmed through—do not boil.
Once the cake has finished baking and has cooled slightly, pour the warm topping evenly over the surface.
Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours to allow the topping to soak in and set.
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10 slices
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Calories per serving: 320 kcal

Variations

Toasted Coconut Topping: Toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the topping for a nutty, golden finish.
Pineapple Twist: Add 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained) to the batter for a tropical upgrade.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth.
Lime Zest: Add zest from one lime for a bright citrus contrast.
Mini Cakes: Bake in individual ramekins or muffin tins for personal-sized portions.

storage/reheating

Store Catch a Husband Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can be served chilled or allowed to come to room temperature before serving. This cake is not suitable for freezing, as the custard texture may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Why is it called “Catch a Husband” Cake?

The name is a playful Brazilian tradition, suggesting that the cake is so delicious it might win someone’s heart—or hand in marriage—after just one bite.

Can I use fresh coconut instead of shredded?

Yes, finely grated fresh coconut can be used, though it may change the texture slightly and reduce sweetness if unsweetened.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the custard-like texture and dairy content, it should be stored in the refrigerator.

Can I make this cake without a blender?

Yes, you can use a stand or hand mixer, but ensure the batter is very smooth and well-combined.

Is the texture more like cake or flan?

It’s a hybrid—softer and more custard-like than traditional cake, with a creamy, dense crumb.

Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar slightly in the batter, or use unsweetened shredded coconut to tone down the sweetness.

What size pan should I use?

A standard 10-cup bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish both work well.

Can I skip the topping?

You can, but it adds flavor and moisture. It’s a signature part of the recipe.

How do I prevent sticking in the bundt pan?

Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray, and dust with a little flour or sugar before pouring in the batter.

Can I serve it warm?

While best served chilled for firmness, a slightly warm slice can be delicious too—just note it will be softer.

Conclusion

Catch a Husband Cake is a creamy, coconut-rich dessert that blends ease with indulgence. With its custard-like interior and sweet, tropical glaze, it’s a memorable treat that brings a taste of Brazilian tradition to your table. Whether you’re celebrating love, sharing with guests, or simply craving something extraordinary, this cake delivers delight in every slice.

Catch a Husband Cake

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This rich, moist, and creamy coconut-infused cake is a traditional Brazilian dessert known to win hearts with its soft texture, custardy base, and tropical sweetness.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 10 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Brazilian
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or baking dish.
In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, flour, sugar, and butter. Blend until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
While the cake bakes, combine the topping ingredients in a small saucepan and warm over low heat.
Once the cake has baked and slightly cooled, pour the warm topping evenly over the surface.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before slicing and serving.