Save It Catch a Husband Cake is a silky-smooth Brazilian dessert that promises to win hearts around the table. With a custardy texture and pronounced coconut flavor it is a favorite for celebrations and cozy evenings alike. This cake is as simple to make as it is impressive to serve and always disappears fast at my family get-togethers.
I first tried this cake at a friend’s birthday and after one bite I knew it was going into my regular dessert rotation. Every time I make it someone asks for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Sweetened condensed milk: classic for rich sweetness select a brand with minimal added ingredients for the best flavor
- Coconut milk: the key to that signature tropical taste full fat is best for a lush texture and taste
- Whole milk: helps balance the richness and create a soft bite use fresh dairy milk if possible
- Large eggs: set the custard structure choose fresh eggs with bright yolks for a golden hue
- All-purpose flour: binds everything together go for unbleached flour for a more natural finish
- Sugar: sweetens the mix evenly if you can use superfine sugar for easy blending
- Butter: melted for tenderness choose real unsalted butter for pure flavor
- Vanilla extract: for fragrant depth pure vanilla makes a difference here
- Baking powder: helps the cake set without making it too airy check that your baking powder is fresh for a good rise
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Grease a bundt pan thoroughly making sure every nook is coated to prevent sticking. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius for a gentle even bake.
- Blend the Batter:
- Add all the ingredients to your blender in the order listed starting with the wet to help things blend smoothly. Blend on medium speed until the batter is entirely smooth and no lumps remain. Scrape down the sides if needed during blending.
- Pour and Water Bath:
- Pour the creamy batter gently into your greased bundt pan to avoid splashing. Place the filled pan into a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of your bundt pan. This water bath ensures an even bake with a silky texture.
- Bake Until Set:
- Carefully move the water bath setup into your oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Chill:
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then gently invert onto a platter if desired and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is what sets the texture and makes the cake slice perfectly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter shredded coconut over the chilled cake before serving for extra flair and flavor. Serve cold and cut with a sharp knife for the neatest slices.
Save It The rich coconut milk is my favorite part because it transports me right back to summers at my grandmother’s house. We always shared a laugh cutting the first creamy slice and the scent of vanilla and coconut would fill the room.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and they will hold beautifully for up to four days. Store sliced pieces separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. This cake eats like a creamy flan and actually gets tastier after the first day.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap whole milk for evaporated milk if you like even more richness. You can use gluten free flour to make the recipe celiac friendly with no other changes needed. A dairy free butter substitute can also work for those with sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake as part of a dessert platter with other tropical treats or alongside strong coffee or tea. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like mango or pineapple. For parties I sometimes top each slice with a cherry or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cultural and Historical Context
Catch a Husband Cake also called Bolo pega marido comes from Brazilian tradition and is famous at family celebrations. The playful name speaks to how irresistible it is and how it might win over anyone who tries it. Its simplicity and universal appeal make it beloved across generations.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try adding a splash of lime zest in summer for a zippy lift In winter sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg with the coconut for an extra warming flavor Top with seasonal fruits such as strawberries in spring or kiwi in winter
Success Stories
Many home bakers have written to say this recipe was their first foray into Brazilian desserts and became their favorite to bring to potlucks. A neighbor once told me she made it for her wedding shower and it was the first dish finished completely. Even my picky eater niece requests this creamy cake for her birthday.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze this cake for up to one month tightly wrapped in plastic and foil. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator still wrapped before serving. The texture remains smooth and sliceable even after freezing which makes it a great make ahead option for busy weeks.
Save It This dessert is both easy and impressive—be sure to let it chill before serving for the best texture. Each slice is a sweet taste of Brazilian tradition that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What creates the creamy texture in this cake?
The combination of sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and eggs gives the cake its signature creamy, custard-like consistency.
- → Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a bundt pan?
Yes, but be sure to use a deep pan and keep the water bath to prevent over-baking and ensure an even, creamy result.
- → Is it necessary to use a water bath?
Yes, the water bath gently cooks the batter and promotes the smooth, flan-like texture the dessert is known for.
- → How should I serve this dessert?
It’s best served chilled, garnished with shredded coconut, which enhances both flavor and presentation.
- → Can flavors be added to the cake?
Absolutely! A hint of lime zest or a splash of rum can give it a unique twist, though it’s delicious as is.