Catch a Husband Cake Dessert

Catch a Husband Cake is a Brazilian classic with a name that always sparks a smile. This unique dessert is smooth and custardy inside with a golden crust and a sweet coconut flavor throughout. Whenever I serve it at family gatherings, people ask for seconds and the recipe too. If you like easy desserts that feel special but require minimal hands-on time, this one is for you.

The first time I made this was on a whim for a Sunday lunch and it became an instant hit. Now every celebration gets a version of this cake and I love seeing people's faces light up after the first bite.

Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk: Brings richness and sweetness use a good quality brand for the creamiest result
• Coconut milk: Layers in tropical flavor and keeps the cake extra moist shake well before using to blend the coconut solids
• Whole milk: Lightens the batter slightly without sacrificing creaminess whole is key for flavor and texture
• Large eggs: Bind the cake and add structure always use fresh eggs for the best result
• All purpose flour: Gives the cake body and balances out the custard texture sift if your flour tends to clump
• Sugar: For that classic cake sweetness you can adjust to taste but I recommend sticking to the full cup
• Butter: Melted for a tender crumb and subtle richness opt for unsalted for better flavor control
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth pure vanilla is best if you have it
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and creates those lovely puffy edges check yours is fresh by dropping a little in warm water it should fizz

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease your bundt pan making sure to get into every curve. This ensures your cake releases smoothly and gives a beautiful presentation.

Blend the Ingredients:

Add sweetened condensed milk coconut milk whole milk eggs flour sugar melted butter vanilla extract and baking powder to your blender. Blend on medium speed until completely smooth and uniform. This should only take about a minute but pause to scrape down the sides if needed.

Set Up the Water Bath:

Pour the batter into your greased bundt pan. Place the pan inside a larger roasting dish and add hot water to the roasting dish until it comes halfway up the sides of the bundt pan. This gentle water bath helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture extra creamy.

Bake the Cake:

Slide the whole setup into your preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check at the 50 minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs the cake is ready. If it is very wet give it another 5 to 10 minutes.

Cool and Chill:

Once baked remove the bundt pan from the water bath and let it cool for about 15 minutes on a rack. Loosen the sides gently with a thin spatula then invert onto a plate. Transition the cake to your fridge to chill for at least two hours. Chilling makes the cake easier to slice and intensifies the coconut flavor.

Garnish and Serve:

Before serving sprinkle shredded coconut on top for extra flair and tropical taste. Serve the cake cold for the best texture.

The sweetened condensed milk is my favorite part of this cake it brings such a silky creamy richness that makes every bite melt in your mouth. My kids love helping sprinkle coconut on top and we joke that even if you are not looking to catch a husband you will catch a crowd with this cake

Storage Tips

Store Catch a Husband Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. I find that the flavor gets better as it sits and the texture stays moist. To freeze wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight for a treat that tastes almost freshly made.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap all purpose flour for a cup for cup gluten free blend if needed. If coconut milk is not available use half and half plus a bit of extra shredded coconut for flavor. Light condensed milk will work in a pinch but you may lose some creaminess and luxe texture. If you prefer less sweetness reduce the added sugar by a few tablespoons but keep in mind it will affect the final taste.

Serving Suggestions

This cake shines as a chilled dessert paired with coffee or tea. You can dress it up for special occasions by adding fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a truly Brazilian feel serve after a savory meal with tropical fruit on the side.

Cultural Context

Catch a Husband Cake or Bolo pega Marido is beloved in Brazil for its simple list of ingredients and irresistible texture. The name is tongue in cheek from an old legend that a cake this good could spark love or at least make someone want to stick around for another slice. It is now served at family gatherings holidays and festive meals across generations mixing homey comfort with a bit of playful folklore.

This cake is sure to impress whether you make it for family or a celebration. Enjoy each creamy slice and don't be surprised when everyone asks for seconds.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Whole milk is recommended for richness, but you can substitute with 2% milk. Avoid skim milk for best texture.

→ Why is a water bath important?

A water bath provides gentle, even heat, ensuring the cake bakes smoothly and remains moist throughout.

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean after baking 50-60 minutes.

→ Is chilling the cake necessary?

Chilling firms the cake and enhances its creamy texture, making it easier to slice and more refreshing to serve.

→ Can I garnish with something other than coconut?

Yes, try fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel for a different finish.