I absolutely love making Moist Lazy Daisy Cake because it’s one of those comforting, old-fashioned desserts that never disappoints. It’s light, fluffy, and has the perfect balance of sweetness, with a rich coconut topping that’s golden and slightly crispy. The cake itself is moist and tender, and the coconut topping adds a delightful texture and flavor that takes it to another level. It’s a simple, no-fuss cake that’s perfect for busy days when I need something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and quick this cake is to make while still being incredibly satisfying. The cake itself is tender and moist, and the topping forms a beautiful golden crust that adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture. It’s the kind of dessert that everyone always loves, and it’s versatile enough to serve for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or just a treat for myself, this cake is always a winner!
Ingredients
(Hear’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup whole milk
For the Topping:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
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1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
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1 tablespoon milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
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Preheat the Oven:
First, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch square baking dish or an 8-inch round cake pan. -
Make the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, I combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter will be thick, but that’s normal! -
Bake the Cake:
I spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cake is baking, I prepare the topping. -
Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, I combine the melted butter, shredded coconut, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. I mix it all together until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined. -
Add the Topping:
Once the cake has baked and the toothpick comes out clean, I remove it from the oven and immediately pour the coconut topping over the warm cake. I spread it evenly with a spatula and return the cake to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. -
Serve:
I let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. The cake is delicious warm, but also great at room temperature the next day.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 9 servings. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and baking time is about 35-45 minutes (including the additional topping bake time). Total time is about 1 hour.
Variations
I like to change it up by:
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Using toasted coconut for the topping to add extra depth and flavor.
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Adding chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the topping for added crunch.
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Using evaporated milk for the topping to make it extra rich.
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Adding a dash of cinnamon to the batter or topping for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage / Reheating
I store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days. I recommend reheating it in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the soft, warm texture, especially for the topping.
FAQs
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Can I use unsweetened coconut for the topping?
Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but keep in mind the cake will be less sweet, and you may need to adjust the sugar to taste. -
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To serve, simply thaw it at room temperature. -
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually gets better as it sits, as the flavors in the topping have time to meld. It can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. -
Can I make this cake in a different pan size?
Yes, you can use a different pan size. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. If using a larger pan, the cake will bake more quickly, so keep an eye on it. -
Can I add fruit to the cake?
Yes! Adding some fruit like sliced peaches, pineapple, or berries to the batter can be a delicious variation. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if adding fruit.
Conclusion
Moist Lazy Daisy Cake is the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. The fluffy cake paired with the rich, coconut topping makes it a comforting treat that’s always a hit. It’s easy to prepare, uses basic ingredients, and brings a nostalgic charm to any dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy a sweet treat, this cake is sure to satisfy and leave everyone coming back for more.
Print
Moist Lazy Daisy Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Moist Lazy Daisy Cake is a light and fluffy dessert with a rich coconut topping that’s golden and crispy. This easy-to-make, comforting cake is the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch square baking dish or an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter will be thick, but that’s normal.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. While the cake bakes, prepare the topping.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, shredded coconut, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined.
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the coconut topping over the warm cake. Spread it evenly and return the cake to the oven for 10-15 more minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. It’s great warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use toasted coconut for an extra layer of flavor in the topping.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for added texture.
For a richer topping, use evaporated milk.
Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon into the batter or topping for a warm, spiced twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes (including topping bake time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg