Catch a Husband Cake (Bolo Para Casar)

The Legendary Brazilian Cake That Wins Hearts One Slice at a Time 🥥🍰
There’s a reason this dessert is famously called Catch a Husband Cake. Known in Brazil as Bolo Para Casar, this cake has earned its playful name because it’s said to be so irresistibly delicious that anyone who tastes it will instantly fall in love. While the name is fun and lighthearted, the cake itself is truly something special—rich, creamy, custard-like, and infused with deep coconut flavor that melts in your mouth.
This is not your typical fluffy cake. Instead, it’s dense, moist, and silky, sitting somewhere between a cake and a baked custard. Made with three kinds of milk and just a handful of simple ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and feels wonderfully indulgent without being complicated.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, guests, or simply treating yourself, this cake always leaves a lasting impression.
Why This Cake Is So Beloved
Famous Brazilian classic with cultural charm
Ultra-creamy, custard-like texture
Rich coconut flavor in every bite
Simple ingredients, no complicated steps
Perfect for any occasion
Delicious warm or chilled
This is the kind of dessert people talk about long after the last slice is gone.
What Makes Catch a Husband Cake Unique?
Unlike traditional cakes that rely on creaming butter and sugar or whipping air into batter, this cake uses a high ratio of milk to flour. The result is a thin batter that bakes into a soft, rich, pudding-like interior with a lightly golden top. It’s comforting, luxurious, and deeply satisfying—especially for coconut lovers.
The combination of sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and coconut milk creates layers of sweetness and creaminess that feel almost magical once baked.

Ingredients

For the Cake
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can whole milk (use the condensed milk can to measure)
1 can coconut milk (use the same can to measure)
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For Garnish
Shredded coconut, for topping
Step-by-Step

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or an 8×8-inch baking dish. This cake is very moist, so proper greasing is essential for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and coconut milk. Whisk gently to combine.
Add the flour, sugar, eggs, melted butter, baking powder, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk or mix with an electric mixer on medium speed until the batter is completely smooth.
Don’t worry if the batter looks thin—this is exactly how it should be.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Place it on the center rack of the oven.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
The cake will puff slightly while baking and settle as it cools—this is normal.
Step 4: Cool and Garnish
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a serving plate if using a bundt pan, or serve directly from the baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded coconut generously over the top for a beautiful finish and extra coconut flavor.
Texture and Flavor Experience
This cake is famous for its:
Dense, custard-like interior
Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture
Rich coconut aroma
Perfect balance of sweetness
Soft, lightly golden top
Each bite feels luxurious, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Catch a Husband Cake is delicious served:
Warm from the oven
At room temperature
Chilled for a firmer, custard-like texture
Optional accompaniments:
Whipped cream
Fresh fruit
A light dusting of powdered sugar
Extra toasted coconut
It’s elegant enough for guests and comforting enough for everyday enjoyment.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
The texture becomes even richer when chilled
Serve cold or bring to room temperature before serving
Not ideal for freezing due to its custard nature
This cake is excellent when made a day ahead, making it perfect for gatherings.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
Use full-fat coconut milk for maximum richness
Whisk until fully smooth—no lumps
Don’t overbake; the center should be just set
Let the cake rest before slicing
Always expect a thin batter—it’s part of the recipe
A Little Cultural Note
In Brazil, Bolo Para Casar is often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions. The playful name reflects the belief that food made with love and care has the power to bring people together—and perhaps even spark romance.
While it may not literally “catch a husband,” it will absolutely win hearts.
Final Thoughts
This Catch a Husband Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly unforgettable. Creamy, coconut-rich, and incredibly easy to make, it’s a dessert that feels special without being complicated.
One slice is enough to understand why this cake has earned legendary status—and why people keep coming back for more.