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
- Toast the coconut and pecans lightly before mixing them into the topping for deeper flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice variation.
- Replace whole milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangier and richer crumb.
- Add ½ teaspoon almond extract alongside the vanilla for extra aroma.
- For a thicker topping, increase brown sugar by 1–2 tablespoons.
- Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred.
- If the topping seems too thick to spread, warm it just a bit longer.
- Serve slightly warm for the most authentic “Lazy Daisy” texture.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a vintage-style dessert.
Nutrition
Calories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 170mgPotassium: 110mgFiber: 2gSugar: 33gVitamin A: 525IUCalcium: 55mgIron: 1.2mg
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