Catch a Husband Cake Delight

If you ever wanted dessert to speak for you this Brazilian Catch a Husband Cake is the one Its creamy coconut-rich flavor plus its impossibly smooth custardy crumb won hearts in my family from the very first bite It is famously simple to prep yet impressive enough for celebrations or just because you need something comforting

My sister dared me to make this after her Brazilian host raved about this cake and honest truth my husband now volunteers to do the dishes when it is chilling in the fridge That is how you know this cake lives up to its name

Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk: Brings both sweetness and that signature velvety texture Choose one with a creamy consistency for the best results
• Coconut milk: Gives the cake its tropical richness Full-fat coconut milk works best for flavor and moisture
• Whole milk: Balances the dense richness and helps create the pudding-like center Use fresh milk for the lightest taste
• Eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to the creamy bite Use large eggs that are at room temperature for easier mixing
• All-purpose flour: Gives the cake its subtle structure Make sure it is fresh and sifted for smooth blending
• Sugar: Adds essential sweetness Superfine sugar dissolves more easily and creates a silky batter
• Butter: Adds richness and depth Opt for unsalted butter and let it cool slightly after melting
• Vanilla extract: Gives a fragrance that makes the cake irresistible Use pure vanilla for the best aroma
• Baking powder: Ensures the cake puffs ever so slightly Check that it is fresh for a good rise

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 350°F 175°C and make sure your bundt pan is generously greased Spoon a little butter into all the intricate corners to help the cake release cleanly

Blend the Batter:

In a blender combine sweetened condensed milk coconut milk whole milk eggs flour sugar melted butter vanilla extract and baking powder Blend until the mixture is thick and completely smooth Scrape down the sides as necessary to catch every speck of flour

Pour and Set Up Water Bath:

Pour the batter into your greased pan Place this pan into a larger roasting dish and add hot water up to halfway up the sides of the cake pan The water bath helps the cake cook gently resulting in its creamy custard-like texture

Bake Slowly:

Put in the center of your oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out just clean The water bath slows the cooking and prevents overbaking which is key for such a creamy cake

Cool and Chill:

Remove the cake from the oven Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours so the flavors deepen and the crumb develops its pudding-like consistency The chilled cake slices beautifully

Garnish and Serve:

Once thoroughly chilled carefully turn the cake out onto a plate Sprinkle generously with shredded coconut for a festive finish Serve slices cold for the ultimate creamy texture

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My absolute favorite part of this cake is those golden edges that caramelize right where cake meets pan We once made two in a row for my parents anniversary and my youngest managed to swipe a corner piece before it even hit the table Sometimes the best memories are stickyfingers moments

Storing Your Cake

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator The flavor actually improves by the next day I recommend slicing just before serving to keep things extra creamy The cake is not freezer friendly as the custard texture changes after thawing

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

If you do not have coconut milk substitute with whole milk and add a splash of coconut extract for similar flavor Out of sweetened condensed milk make your own by gently simmering equal parts whole milk and sugar until thickened though the flavor will be less caramelized Try adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a touch of orange zest to the batter for a fresh twist

Serving Ideas

This cake shines on its own but you can dress it up with seasonal berries a drizzle of passion fruit syrup or even a spoonful of whipped cream For holidays I like to toast some coconut flakes and scatter them over the top for a bit of crunch Sliced mango or pineapple on the side is never a bad idea

A Little History

Known in Brazil as Bolo Engorda Marido or Husband Fattening Cake this dessert is a beloved staple at family gatherings It was originally famous among women who liked to turn out impressive desserts with humble pantry ingredients Across Brazil you will find dozens of playful variations but coconut is always the heart of the recipe

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Serve this creamy treat and watch smiles appear—no words needed!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of pan should I use?

A bundt pan is ideal for even baking and a beautiful shape. Grease well to avoid sticking.

→ Why bake in a water bath?

Using a water bath ensures gentle, even heat for a silky, custard-like interior without curdling.

→ Can I substitute coconut milk?

You can use evaporated milk or whole milk, but coconut milk delivers the signature texture and flavor.

→ How long should the cake be chilled?

Refrigerate at least 2 hours for firm, sliceable texture and the best flavor development.

→ Is garnishing with coconut necessary?

While optional, shredded coconut on top adds extra texture and highlights the tropical theme.