If you’ve never had a slice of lazy daisy cake, you’re in for a delicious surprise. This vintage dessert is simple, sweet, and incredibly comforting. With its light sponge cake base and rich, broiled coconut topping, it’s a throwback that totally deserves a revival in modern kitchens.
Whether you’re baking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just craving something cozy, lazy daisy cake hits the spot. It’s easy to make, requires basic ingredients, and comes together in under an hour. In this guide, we’ll show you the best lazy daisy cake recipe, explore fun twists like crazy daisy cake, and share tips for perfect results every time.
Lazy daisy cake is a soft and buttery sponge cake that’s topped with a caramelized coconut topping. The cake itself is typically made with hot milk, giving it a moist and delicate crumb. After baking, a sweet mixture of butter, brown sugar, milk, and shredded coconut is spread on top and then briefly broiled until golden and bubbling.
It’s this unique broiled topping that gives lazy daisy cake its signature flavor and texture—crispy, gooey, and totally irresistible. The name “lazy daisy” likely reflects the easy-going nature of the cake: simple ingredients, easy method, and a low-maintenance reward.
Best Lazy Daisy Cake Recipe: Old-Fashioned Perfection
Looking for the best lazy daisy cake recipe? This one is straight from Grandma’s kitchen—simple, classic, and oh-so-good.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
2 eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the topping:
3 tbsp butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp milk
3/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla.
In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a saucepan, heat the milk and butter until just boiling.
Mix the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, then stir in the hot milk.
Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.
While the cake bakes, make the topping by combining all topping ingredients in a saucepan.
Remove the cake from the oven and spread the topping evenly.
Broil for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully, until golden.
Enjoy warm or cooled—the flavors shine either way!
What Is Crazy Daisy Cake?
You may have come across the term crazy daisy cake and wondered if it’s the same thing. It basically is! Some old cookbooks and families refer to lazy daisy cake as crazy daisy cake, perhaps to reflect its whimsical, retro vibe.
There’s no difference in the recipe or ingredients. Both names refer to the same rich sponge cake with that golden coconut topping. It’s simply a matter of which name stuck in your household or region.
Daisy Cake Recipe Variations
Once you’ve mastered the traditional daisy cake recipe, feel free to play around with some fun variations:
Add a twist of spice: A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter adds warmth.
Try a chocolate version: Replace 1/4 cup of flour with cocoa powder.
Go nutty: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
Use different extracts: Almond or coconut extract can switch up the flavor profile.
The base is so versatile that you can make it your own while staying true to the lazy daisy cake recipe roots.
Tips for a Perfect Lazy Daisy Cake
Use room temperature eggs: They help the cake rise evenly.
Don’t skip the hot milk step: It’s the secret to the cake’s moist and fluffy texture.
Watch the broiler carefully: The topping can burn fast—2 to 3 minutes is plenty.
Let the cake rest before slicing: This allows the topping to set.
These tips will help you perfect the lazy daisy cake every time, whether it’s your first try or your 50th.
Lazy Daisy Cake for Every Occasion
This cake is ideal for almost any occasion:
Family dinners – An easy, comforting end to a home-cooked meal.
Potlucks – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that travels well.
Retro-themed parties – Go vintage with your dessert.
Just because – You don’t need a reason to enjoy a good cake.
Its simplicity is what makes it so lovable. No frosting, no layers—just old-fashioned goodness.
Conclusion
There’s a reason why lazy daisy cake has stood the test of time. It’s humble, easy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re using the best lazy daisy cake recipe, exploring the nostalgic charm of crazy daisy cake, or experimenting with your own daisy cake recipe, this dessert is as rewarding as it is simple.
Give it a try, and you’ll understand why generations have fallen in love with this timeless cake. Grab a fork—or better yet, your favorite spoon—and dig into the sweet, toasty magic of lazy daisy cake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make lazy daisy cake ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well for 2–3 days at room temperature.
Can I freeze lazy daisy cake?
Yes, but freeze without the topping for best results.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but the topping may be less sweet and moist.
What’s the difference between lazy daisy and crazy daisy cake?
They are the same—just different names!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use a 9×13 pan and adjust the bake time.
