Lazy Daisy Cake is a cherished old-fashioned dessert known for its soft, sponge-like base and rich, caramelized coconut topping. Believed to have originated in the early-to-mid 20th century, it's a classic American comfort cake often passed down in handwritten recipe cards like this one. Loved for its simplicity and nostalgic sweetness, it's a go-to treat for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings. The signature broiled topping gives a toasty texture and irresistible flavor that sets it apart from other cakes.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
Topping:
- 5 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp cream
- 3 tbsp butter
- ½ cup coconut (shredded )
- ½ cup pecans (chopped )
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Beat eggs, gradually adding sugar.
- Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- Add to egg mixture.
Step 3: Heat Milk & Butter
- Heat milk and 1 tbsp butter to boiling point.
- Add to batter along with vanilla.
- Mix lightly until smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into a greased 8×8-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until golden.
Step 5: Make the Topping
- Mix brown sugar, cream, butter, coconut, and pecans.
- Heat mixture until well blended and slightly thickened.
Step 6: Broil the Topping
- Spread topping on warm cake.
- Broil for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips
- Swap pecans for walnuts or omit for nut allergies.
- Add a splash of rum or almond extract for depth.
- Make it gluten-free with a 1:1 flour substitute.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Nutrition
Calories: 312kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 166mgPotassium: 111mgFiber: 1gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 171IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 108mgIron: 2mg
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