Danish Dream Cake
There’s something magical about a cake that takes you right back to childhood. This Danish Dream Cake is one of those recipes that instantly became a favorite in my household. I discovered it when searching for a dessert to bring to a family gathering, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit. The rich, buttery sponge combined with the caramelized coconut topping is a match made in heaven. It’s the kind of cake that feels indulgent yet comforting, with every bite reminding you why homemade desserts will always hold a special place in our hearts.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make, even with my busy schedule. As a mom of three, time is always in short supply, but this cake comes together quickly and makes me look like I’ve spent hours in the kitchen. The kids adore it—I’ve caught them sneaking slices after dinner more times than I can count! My husband loves it too, claiming it pairs perfectly with his evening coffee.
This Danish Dream Cake has also become my go-to for special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, a potluck, or just a treat to brighten up the week, it never disappoints. The best part? It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, with its golden, caramelized topping giving it a stunning finish. I hope you’ll fall in love with it as much as we have.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
What makes this cake special?
The combination of the fluffy, vanilla sponge and the gooey coconut topping makes it unique and unforgettable. The topping is caramelized, giving it a rich, almost candy-like texture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake stays fresh for a couple of days when stored in an airtight container. You can even warm it up slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Can I substitute the coconut?
Yes, if coconut isn’t your thing, you can try a chopped nut topping or even a crumble made with oats and brown sugar.
Do I need any special tools?
Not at all! A standard 9×13-inch baking pan, a whisk, and a mixing bowl are all you need.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Just thaw and enjoy.
What You Need to Make Danish Dream Cake
Ingredients:
Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
Tools:
9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
How to Make Danish Dream Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Mix the dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add milk and vanilla. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.
Combine wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Bake the cake. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the topping. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, milk, and shredded coconut. Cook until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Add the topping. Spread the coconut mixture evenly over the warm cake. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden.
Cool and serve. Let the cake cool before slicing. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Danish Dream Cake
Don’t overmix the batter: This keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Use fresh coconut if possible: It enhances the flavor and texture of the topping.
Watch the topping closely: It caramelizes quickly, so keep an eye on it during the final bake.
Serve warm: Slightly reheating the cake brings out the gooey goodness of the topping.
Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a cozy twist.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for our family gathering! The topping is absolutely divine.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe! Next time, I’ll try adding a pinch of cinnamon for a little spice.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My kids loved this cake, and it was so easy to make. A new favorite!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious, but I found the topping a bit too sweet for my taste. Still a winner!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I’ve made this twice now, and it’s been a hit both times. Highly recommend!”
Printable Recipe
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Danish Dream Cake
A fluffy vanilla sponge cake topped with a caramelized coconut topping. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy treat, this Danish Dream Cake is easy to make and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
- Tools:
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Mix the dry ingredients. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add milk and vanilla. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the cake. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the topping. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, milk, and shredded coconut. Cook until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the topping. Spread the coconut mixture evenly over the warm cake. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and serve. Let the cake cool before slicing. Enjoy!
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