This classic Catch a Husband Cake is a simple, comforting dessert with a soft custard-like center and a lightly golden top. Made from everyday pantry ingredients, it delivers rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture without complicated steps or special equipment. It is the kind of cake that feels homemade in the best possible way and brings warmth to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
It uses basic ingredients you may already have on hand.
The texture is unique, sitting perfectly between a cake and a custard.
It requires no baking powder or yeast.
The flavor is gently sweet, creamy, and comforting.
It works beautifully for family gatherings, casual desserts, or quiet evenings at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 can (14 oz / 395 g) sweetened condensed milk
1 can whole milk (use the empty condensed milk can to measure)
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Butter or neutral oil, for greasing the pan
Optional additions:
a pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Grease a 9-inch round or rectangular baking dish with butter or oil and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth.
Pour in the whole milk and stir gently to combine.
Add the melted butter and mix again.
Gradually add the flour, whisking until the batter is completely smooth and free of lumps.
If using, mix in the salt and vanilla extract.
The batter will be thin, which is normal.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
Place in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the center is set but still soft.
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
As it cools, the texture will firm slightly while remaining creamy inside.
Add a light citrus note by mixing in 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest.
For a warmer flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
Replace 1/4 cup of the whole milk with coconut milk for a subtle tropical taste.
Sprinkle a thin layer of powdered sugar on top once cooled for a simple finish.
Bake in individual ramekins for single-serve portions with shorter baking time.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For best texture, allow refrigerated cake to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature and does not require reheating.
Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the custard-like texture.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without butter?
Yes, you can replace the butter with the same amount of neutral oil, though butter provides a richer flavor.
Why is the batter so thin?
The thin batter is intentional and helps create the custard-like texture as the cake bakes.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The top should be lightly golden and the center set but still slightly soft when gently shaken.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Whole milk is recommended for the best texture, but low-fat milk can be used with slightly less creaminess.
Does this cake rise?
The cake rises slightly while baking and settles as it cools, which is normal.
Can I bake this in a glass dish?
Yes, a glass baking dish works well. Just ensure even greasing.
Is this cake very sweet?
It is moderately sweet, balanced by the eggs and milk. Adding a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness.
Can I add toppings?
This cake is traditionally served plain, but a light dusting of powdered sugar is fine.
Should it be served warm or cold?
It can be served either way, but many people prefer it chilled for a firmer, pudding-like texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Catch a Husband Cake is a timeless dessert that proves simplicity can be truly special. With its creamy interior, gentle sweetness, and easy preparation, it is the kind of recipe that becomes a household favorite. Whether served to guests or enjoyed quietly at home, this cake delivers comfort, nostalgia, and homemade goodness in every slice.
Catch a Husband Cake is a classic Brazilian-inspired dessert with a soft, custard-like center and a golden top. Made from simple pantry ingredients, it’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
1 can (14 oz / 395 g) sweetened condensed milk
1 can whole milk (use empty condensed milk can to measure)
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Butter or neutral oil, for greasing the pan
Optional: a pinch of salt
Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round or rectangular baking dish and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten.
Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth.
Pour in whole milk and stir gently to combine.
Add melted butter and mix again.
Gradually add the flour, whisking until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
If using, mix in the salt and vanilla extract.
Pour the thin batter into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set but slightly soft.
Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan. The texture will firm up as it cools.
Notes
Use a glass or metal baking dish, but ensure it is well greased to prevent sticking.
For a hint of citrus, add 1 tsp lemon or orange zest to the batter.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for best texture.
Do not freeze, as it may affect the custard-like consistency.
