Catch A Husband Cake: A Classic Homemade Dessert That Wins Hearts

Introduction

Catch A Husband Cake is one of those timeless homemade desserts that feels like a warm story passed down through generations. Known for its rich, moist texture and comforting aroma, this cake has long been associated with family gatherings, special afternoons, and the belief that good baking has the power to bring people together. The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. It does not rely on complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, yet the result feels indulgent and deeply satisfying. When I first prepared this recipe, I was struck by how effortlessly it came together and how quickly the kitchen filled with a buttery, vanilla-scented warmth. The cake has a soft crumb, a balanced sweetness, and a home-style charm that makes it perfect for serving with tea or coffee. Whether you are baking for loved ones or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers a comforting dessert that feels both nostalgic and reliable.

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Catch A Husband Cake: A Classic Homemade Dessert That Wins Hearts


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  • Author: Diva
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 1 medium cake (8 servings)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Catch A Husband Cake is a rich, moist Nigerian dessert cake believed to be so delicious it can win hearts. Made with butter, eggs, milk, and a touch of nutmeg, it has a soft crumb and deep, comforting flavor perfect for celebrations or special treats.


Ingredients

  • 250 g all-purpose flour
  • 200 g unsalted butter (softened)
  • 200 g granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs
  • 240 ml evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) and grease a cake pan.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
  6. Add the dry ingredients to the batter alternately with the evaporated milk, mixing gently.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
  8. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  9. Remove from oven, allow to cool, then serve.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
  • You can add raisins or mixed fruits for extra flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake soft.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Nigerian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is wonderfully easy to prepare, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced home bakers. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients and requires minimal equipment. The texture is moist and tender, while the flavor is rich without being overwhelming. It also stores well, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
This provides the structure of the cake, giving it a soft but stable crumb that holds together beautifully when sliced.

Granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist texture and lightly golden crust.

Unsalted butter
Butter adds richness and depth of flavor. Using unsalted butter allows better control over the overall taste.

Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients together and add tenderness, helping the cake rise evenly during baking.

Whole milk
Milk adds moisture and ensures the batter remains smooth and pourable.

Baking powder
This is the leavening agent responsible for giving the cake its light and airy texture.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm, aromatic note.

Salt
A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and sharpens the flavors.

Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and greasing a standard round cake pan. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential for incorporating air into the batter. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it from the pan.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 40 minutes and a cooling time of 15 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. To reheat, warm individual slices briefly in the microwave.

Variations and Customizations

This cake is highly adaptable and can be customized to suit different tastes. You can add grated coconut to the batter for extra texture or fold in chopped nuts for a slight crunch. A citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, adds brightness to the flavor. For a richer version, replace part of the milk with coconut milk. You may also drizzle a simple sugar glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness. Each variation preserves the cake’s comforting character while offering a unique twist.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This cake provides carbohydrates for energy and contains moderate amounts of fat and protein. It can be adapted for dietary needs by using dairy-free butter and plant-based milk.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfect Mixing
Creaming the butter and sugar properly ensures a light texture.

Gentle Folding
Avoid overmixing once the flour is added to keep the cake tender.

Pan Choice
Using a light-colored pan helps prevent over-browning.

FAQs

What is Catch A Husband Cake?

It is a traditional homemade cake known for its rich flavor and moist texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for flavor, but oil can be used in a pinch.

Does this cake require frosting?

No, it is delicious on its own, but a glaze is optional.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months.

What pan size works best?

A standard 9-inch round pan is ideal.

Can I add fruit?

Yes, small diced fruit can be folded into the batter.

How do I know when it is done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Slight reductions are possible without affecting texture too much.

Is this cake suitable for beginners?

Absolutely, it is simple and forgiving.

Conclusion

Catch A Husband Cake is a comforting, reliable dessert that proves simple recipes can be truly special. With its soft crumb and rich flavor, it is a wonderful addition to any home baker’s collection and a cake that is always worth sharing.

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