Have you ever heard of a dessert so enchanting that it could charm its way into someone’s heart with a single bite? The Catch a Husband Cake isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s a conversation starter, a legend in its own right. This velvety, creamy coconut-flaked cake comes from Brazil, known there as “Bolo Engorda Marido,” and it’s said to have irresistible powers of persuasion—at least in the love department.
This cake is a perfect blend of moist textures and tropical flavors, especially with its rich condensed milk base and soft, shredded coconut topping. It’s served chilled, making it an ideal finish to a summery meal or a tropical-themed gathering. Whether you’re baking for your family or a certain someone special, this cake will absolutely turn heads and steal hearts.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into mixing and baking, let’s talk prep and tools—because the right setup makes all the difference.
Bundt Pan: This cake’s signature shape depends on a good-quality bundt or ring mold pan. Its high sides and central tube ensure even cooking and that stunning presentation.
Blender: Surprisingly, this cake batter is often prepared in a blender, which gives it its ultra-smooth consistency. It’s a time-saver and removes all lumps effortlessly.
Mixing Bowl & Whisk: For the topping, you’ll need a mixing bowl to combine the coconut and milk ingredients evenly. A whisk helps get that perfectly creamy drizzle before the cake goes into the oven.
Oven & Baking Tray: A reliable oven preheated to the right temperature is essential. Placing your bundt pan on a baking tray makes it easier to transport and prevents spillage.
Having these tools at the ready makes the whole process seamless and enjoyable, ensuring your cake comes out luscious every time.
Ingredients for the Catch a Husband Cake
Each component of this cake plays a crucial role in achieving its creamy, dreamy texture and tropical flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
This is the heart of the cake. It gives the dessert its rich, creamy body and signature sweetness.
Evaporated Milk
It lightens the density of the condensed milk while deepening the milky flavor profile. It also contributes to the custard-like texture.
Coconut Milk
This adds depth and that unmistakable tropical aroma and flavor. It works beautifully with the other milks for a velvety finish.
Eggs
They bind the ingredients together and provide structure without taking away from the softness.
All-Purpose Flour
Just a touch is needed to give the cake stability, almost like a flan-meets-cake hybrid.
Sugar
To balance the richness and enhance the natural sweetness of the coconut.
Butter
Melted butter brings a luxurious mouthfeel and moistness to every bite.
Shredded Coconut
The topping that gives texture and visual appeal. Sweetened or unsweetened both work—depending on your preference.


How To Make the Catch a Husband Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your bundt pan generously with butter and a dusting of flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Blend the Batter
In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, flour, sugar, and melted butter. Blend until completely smooth and silky. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
Pour the blended batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Step 4: Cool and Invert
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Gently invert onto a serving plate. Don’t rush—this step ensures the cake holds together without breaking.
Step 5: Add Coconut Topping
Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the cooled cake. If desired, lightly press it into the top and sides for better coverage and presentation.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the cake for a few hours or overnight. This step enhances the flavor and gives the texture a flan-like creaminess.
Serving and Storing the Catch a Husband Cake
The Catch a Husband Cake is best served chilled. After it’s had time to rest in the fridge, the cake firms up beautifully while retaining its custardy, melt-in-your-mouth softness. Slice it generously and serve with a cup of coffee or a fruity iced tea for a perfect pairing.
Presentation matters too—consider garnishing with extra coconut or an edible flower for a pop of color. Whether for a brunch table or after-dinner dessert, this cake never fails to impress.
To store, keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How firm is the cake’s texture?
It lands somewhere between flan and sponge cake. Creamy, but sliceable—ideal for lovers of pudding-style desserts.
Can I use low-fat or dairy-free substitutes?
Yes, but it will alter the richness and texture. Full-fat coconut milk and traditional dairy yield the best results.
Is it overly sweet?
Not at all. The sweetness is balanced by the coconut and dairy, creating a well-rounded flavor.
Do I have to use a bundt pan?
It’s highly recommended for that signature ring shape and even baking. However, a round cake pan or deep pie dish can work in a pinch.
Can I toast the coconut topping?
Absolutely! Toasted coconut adds a nutty depth and makes the cake even more aromatic.
Is it suitable for special occasions?
Yes! It’s perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, tropical parties, or any time you want a unique show-stopper.
Want More Tropical Dessert Ideas?
If the Catch a Husband Cake has you swooning for more creamy, island-inspired treats, you might love exploring these next:
The No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a smooth, dreamy option that also chills beautifully like our main cake. Or dive into the tropical warmth of the Coconut Milk Tres Leches Cake—it’s minimal in ingredients but lush in flavor.
Try something fruity and fun like Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for bite-sized elegance. If you’re craving a buttery finish, the Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake brings a toffee-like decadence that complements coconut-based desserts.
Or keep it light and flirty with Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes, great for parties and brunch tables alike.
Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out
You can save this to your dessert boards for easy reference. Just click the Pin button.
If you make it, I want to hear all about it! Did you toast the coconut? Did you chill it overnight or serve it same-day? Drop your version in the comments.
For more ideas like this, follow my Pinterest board: LadyPlate Recipes on Pinterest. I post new sweets and creative meals daily!


Catch a Husband Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes + chill time
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luscious Brazilian dessert known as Bolo Engorda Marido, the Catch a Husband Cake is a tropical custard-style cake made with three types of milk, topped with coconut, and served chilled. Creamy, sweet, and irresistibly moist, it’s a conversation-worthy treat ideal for gatherings or date nights.
Ingredients
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
4 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup shredded coconut (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan generously with butter and lightly dust it with flour.
2. In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, eggs, flour, sugar, and melted butter. Blend until the batter is silky and smooth (about 1–2 minutes).
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared bundt pan. Place it on a baking sheet and bake for 50–60 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
4. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Carefully invert onto a serving plate.
5. Sprinkle shredded coconut evenly on top. Press it gently for full coverage.
6. Chill the cake for several hours or overnight. Serve cold for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Let the cake cool completely before unmolding or it may break apart.
Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest, creamiest result.
For extra depth, lightly toast the shredded coconut before topping the cake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: coconut cake, husband cake, Brazilian dessert
