Name: Catch a Husband Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar (for caramel); 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 3 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup grated coconut; 1/2 cup butter (softened); 3/4 cup sugar; 2 eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder

Sweet, creamy, and utterly irresistible—Catch a Husband Cake is the dessert that whispers love in every bite. With its rich flan-like custard layer, tender sponge base, and the tropical kiss of coconut, this Brazilian classic is both a showstopper and a conversation starter. Legend says it’s so good, it just might win you a proposal!

This cake delivers a beautiful contrast of textures: silky-smooth on the inside with a golden coconut-studded crust on the outside. It’s the perfect centerpiece for romantic dinners, bridal showers, or when you want to impress with a dessert that looks like it took hours but is surprisingly simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Catch a Husband Cake

Stunning Presentation: It unmolds beautifully with a glossy top and a halo of shredded coconut.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and coconut.
All-in-One Bake: The layers magically separate in the oven, giving you flan and cake in one.
Crowd-Pleaser: Universally loved flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Blender: To mix the ingredients until ultra-smooth; key for a flawless custard texture.
Bundt Pan or Ring Mold: This ensures even cooking and the signature shape of the cake.
Mixing Bowl: For preparing the coconut topping.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is important for this recipe’s custard-to-cake ratio.
Spatula: To help layer the mixture without disturbing the flan base.
Baking Tray with Water (Bain-Marie Method): Ensures gentle, even cooking without cracking or curdling the custard.

Every tool plays a role in achieving that creamy texture and layered effect—skipping any of them could throw off the delicate chemistry that makes this cake a success.

Ingredients for the Catch a Husband Cake

Sweetened Condensed Milk: The heart of the custard base, providing richness and sweetness.
Evaporated Milk: Adds a creamier texture without making the dessert overly sweet.
Eggs: Essential for structure and that flan-like consistency.
Grated Coconut: Gives a delightful tropical flavor and chewy texture.
Sugar: Used for caramelizing the mold to give that glossy top and added depth.
All-Purpose Flour: Used in the cake layer to provide structure and softness.
Butter: Adds richness to the cake layer.
Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise gently.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with warm aroma.

How To Make the Catch a Husband Cake

Step 1: Make the Caramel Base

Start by melting sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden and syrupy. Pour it into the bottom of your bundt pan, tilting the pan to coat evenly. This creates that signature shiny, caramelized top when unmolded.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Layer

In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla. Blend until smooth. Pour this mixture directly into the caramel-coated pan. Let it settle while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, mix butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time. Gradually incorporate flour, baking powder, and grated coconut. Mix until smooth but do not overbeat. Carefully spoon the batter over the custard layer—it will float on top.

Step 4: Bake Using Bain-Marie

Place your filled bundt pan in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Unmold

Let the cake cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. To unmold, run a knife along the edges and invert onto a serving plate. The caramel will drip beautifully over the sides.

How to Serve and Store Catch a Husband Cake

Serve this cake chilled, straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor. The cold helps the layers hold their form, while the caramel sauce becomes luxuriously glossy and thick. Garnish with extra grated coconut or edible flowers for a touch of elegance.

Perfect with a cup of coffee or a tropical tea, this cake shines as a dessert centerpiece for gatherings, anniversaries, or “just because” indulgences.

To store, cover the cake with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the flan layer may become watery after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the cake layer float over the flan layer?

The difference in density between the custard and cake batters causes the separation naturally during baking, creating the magic flan-on-bottom effect.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake is even better after chilling overnight, making it ideal for prepping a day in advance.

Can I substitute fresh coconut for grated?

Yes, but make sure it’s finely shredded and not overly moist. You may want to toast it lightly for better texture.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can use a round cake pan with high sides or a loaf pan, but the unmolding might not be as visually striking.

Why bake it in a water bath?

The bain-marie ensures even, gentle heat, preventing the custard from curdling and helping the cake bake without cracks.

Is it very sweet?

While it is rich and sweet, the balance between the creamy custard, soft cake, and lightly toasted coconut keeps it from being cloying.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Tropical Twist?

If Catch a Husband Cake got your heart fluttering, you’ll adore these dreamy dessert creations too:

Moist and Tangy Key Lime Pound Cake for a citrusy zing that refreshes.
Amish Applesauce Cake when you crave rustic spice and comfort.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a cozy fusion of breakfast and dessert.
Pecan Pie Lasagna if you love layered indulgence.
Brownie Refrigerator Cake for a fudgy no-bake treat.

These cakes continue the theme of big flavor, layered textures, and unforgettable presentation—perfect for impressing guests or spoiling yourself.

Save This Pin For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you tweak the coconut or caramel? Serve it with fruit on the side?

I love seeing your creations and swaps! Got questions? Ask away—we’re here to bake and learn together.

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