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–+ servings
Lazy Daisy Cake from Noreen
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Broil Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 365 kcal

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 8x8-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
Keyword ;lazy daisy cake, coconut, coconut pecan topping, easy, handwritten recipe, heirloom cake, old-fashioned dessert, Pecan, southern cakes, sponge cake, vintage recipe
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