Catch a Husband Cake is a creamy, coconut-infused Brazilian dessert beloved for its irresistible texture and tropical flavor. Rich, custardy, and soaked in a luscious coconut milk topping, this cake blends the best qualities of flan and sponge cake into one unforgettable bite. True to its name, it’s said to be so good it could win a heart—or a hand in marriage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is a showstopper with a remarkably easy preparation. Made entirely in a blender, it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and texture. The custard-like base is perfectly moist thanks to a trio of milks, while the sweet coconut topping adds richness and visual appeal. It’s ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or when you want to impress with a simple yet elegant dessert.
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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or a standard baking dish thoroughly.
- In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, flour, sugar, and softened butter. Blend until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Stir in the shredded coconut, or pulse briefly just to incorporate.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is lightly golden on top.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut until just warm. Do not boil.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, pour the topping evenly over it.
- Refrigerate the cake for 1–2 hours to allow it to set and absorb the topping fully.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
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 Finish: Toast the coconut for the topping before adding for extra flavor and texture.
- Citrus Hint: Add a teaspoon of lime zest to the batter for brightness.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped cashews or almonds on top for added crunch.
- Tropical Boost: Add 1/2 cup crushed pineapple to the batter for a fruity twist.
- Mini Versions: Bake in ramekins or muffin tins for individual servings.
storage/reheating
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve chilled or let it come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as the custard texture may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Why is it called “Catch a Husband” Cake?
It’s a playful name from Brazil that suggests the cake is so delicious, it might just help you win someone’s heart.
What is the texture like?
It’s denser and creamier than traditional cake—similar to a custard or flan cake hybrid.
Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut?
Yes. If using unsweetened, you may want to keep the sugar levels as-is to maintain balance.
Do I need a blender?
A blender makes the process easier and ensures a smooth batter, but a hand mixer can be used if ingredients are mixed thoroughly.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s an ideal make-ahead dessert. Chill and allow the flavors to develop overnight.
What kind of coconut milk should I use?
Canned full-fat coconut milk provides the richest flavor and texture.
Is this cake overly sweet?
It is sweet and rich, but the coconut and creamy texture help balance it out. You can reduce the sugar slightly if needed.
Can I omit the topping?
The topping enhances the flavor and moisture, but the cake is still enjoyable without it.
Can I bake it in a regular cake pan?
Yes, a 9×13-inch dish or round cake pan will work if you don’t have a bundt pan.
How do I keep the cake from sticking?
Grease your pan well and allow the cake to cool slightly before unmolding to help it release cleanly.
Conclusion
Catch a Husband Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a sweet expression of warmth and tradition. With its custard-soft texture and rich coconut flavor, it’s an unforgettable treat that’s easy to prepare but tastes like a labor of love. Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or just indulge in something creamy and comforting, this Brazilian classic is sure to win hearts.
PrintCatch a Husband Cake
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.
- 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
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
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 heat just until warm.
- When the cake is baked and slightly cooled, pour the warm topping evenly over it.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Blending the batter ensures a smooth, custard-like texture.
- Use a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation, but a standard baking dish also works.
- For extra coconut flavor, toast some shredded coconut and sprinkle on top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg