The Ultimate Oatmeal Cake with Broiled Coconut Frosting
Imagine a dessert that combines the hearty, rustic soul of an oatmeal cookie with the elegant, caramelized crunch of a tropical confection. That is the magic of the Oatmeal Cake with Broiled Coconut Frosting. Often called “Lazy Day Cake,” this vintage masterpiece is famous for its ultra-moist crumb and a bubbling, golden-brown topping that creates an irresistible crunch factor. Whether you are hosting a family dinner or looking for the perfect brunch centerpiece, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper.
The Essential Ingredients
- Quick-Cooking Oats (1 cup): The foundation of the cake. These provide a tender, dense texture that sets this sponge apart from traditional cakes.
- Boiling Water (1 ½ cups): Crucial for hydrating the oats, ensuring the final result is never dry or “chewy.”
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup + 6 tbsp): Adds a velvety mouthfeel and rich flavor to both the base and the frosting.
- Brown & Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar adds a molasses-like depth, while granulated sugar helps create a light, even rise.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These aromatic spices provide the signature warm, spiced profile that makes every bite nostalgic.
- Sweetened Shredded Coconut (1 cup): The star of the show, which caramelizes under the broiler into a crispy, golden topping.
- Evaporated Milk (2/3 cup): Creates a rich, butterscotch-style sauce that binds the coconut and seeps into the top of the cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Hydrate the Oats: In a small bowl, pour the boiling water over the oats. Let them sit for 20 minutes to soften. This is the secret to a moist oatmeal cake.
- Cream the Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs and the soaked oat mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk 1 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and your spices. Fold them gently into the wet batter to maintain a tender structure.
- The Initial Bake: Pour into a greased 9×13 pan and bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is hot, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, evaporated milk, and coconut (and optional walnuts) in a bowl.
- The Broiler Finish: Spread the frosting over the warm cake. Turn your oven to Broil and place the cake on the top rack for 2–4 minutes. Watch closely until the coconut is perfectly toasted.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Bake
- Visual Cues: The topping goes from golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Do not leave the oven door during the broiling process!
- Room Temp Ingredients: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to achieve a bakery-quality emulsion.
Serving Suggestions
This classic comfort food is best served slightly warm. Pair a thick slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to allow the cream to melt into the toasted coconut crevices. For a morning treat, it pairs exquisitely with a dark roast coffee or a bold Earl Grey tea.
The Final Word
This Oatmeal Cake recipe proves that you don’t need complex techniques to create a world-class dessert. With its simple preparation and sophisticated flavor profile, it’s a recipe that will be requested again and again. It’s hearty, sweet, and possesses a unique texture that modern cakes simply can’t match. Experience the delicious simplicity of this timeless bake today!