Lazy Daisy Cake III: A Foolproof Recipe for Effortless Indulgence

Lazy Daisy Cake, a classic dessert loved for its simple preparation and delicious taste, is a treat that has graced family tables for generations. This recipe, Lazy Daisy Cake III, aims to be the ultimate, foolproof version, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. It’s a moist, buttery cake topped with a sweet, toasted coconut topping that will leave everyone wanting more. This iteration of the recipe focuses on clarity, ease of execution, and consistent results, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve cake perfection.

## Why Lazy Daisy Cake III?

You might be wondering, why the ‘III’? This isn’t just a random naming convention. It signifies that this recipe is the result of iterative improvements and refinements over previous versions of the Lazy Daisy Cake. We’ve taken the best aspects of other recipes, tweaked the ingredient ratios, and streamlined the instructions to create what we believe is the easiest and most reliable Lazy Daisy Cake recipe out there.

Key improvements in Lazy Daisy Cake III include:

* **Simplified Instructions:** Clear and concise steps to minimize confusion.
* **Precise Measurements:** Accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.
* **Improved Texture:** A more tender and moist cake crumb.
* **Enhanced Flavor:** A richer buttery flavor balanced with the sweetness of the topping.

## Ingredients:

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it even more accessible.

### For the Cake:

* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 3/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

### For the Topping:

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, your preference)
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but highly recommended)

## Equipment:

* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Whisk
* Spatula
* Saucepan

## Step-by-Step Instructions:

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious Lazy Daisy Cake III.

### Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal and clean slices.

* **Greasing:** Use butter, shortening, or cooking spray to coat the bottom and sides of the pan thoroughly.
* **Flouring:** Sprinkle about a tablespoon of flour into the greased pan. Tilt and tap the pan to distribute the flour evenly, coating all surfaces. Then, turn the pan upside down and tap out any excess flour. This creates a non-stick barrier between the cake and the pan.

### Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for a light and airy cake.

* **Why Whisk?** Whisking incorporates air into the dry ingredients, which helps to loosen the flour and prevent clumps. This results in a smoother batter and a more even rise in the oven.

### Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is best done with an electric mixer, either handheld or stand mixer. Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air into the mixture, which contributes to the cake’s tender texture.

* **Softened Butter is Key:** Make sure your butter is properly softened before creaming. It should be soft enough to easily press with your finger, but not melted. Properly softened butter will cream smoothly and evenly with the sugar.
* **Creaming Time:** Cream the butter and sugar for at least 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may seem like a long time, but it’s essential for achieving the right texture.

### Step 4: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Adding the eggs one at a time ensures that they are fully incorporated into the batter and prevents the batter from curdling.

* **Mixing After Each Addition:** After adding each egg, mix the batter until it is smooth and emulsified. This helps to create a stable batter that will hold its shape during baking.

### Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake.

* **Why Alternate?** Alternating the dry and wet ingredients helps to keep the batter smooth and prevent it from separating. Adding all the dry ingredients at once can cause the batter to become dry and crumbly, while adding all the wet ingredients at once can cause the batter to become thin and watery.
* **Mixing Until Just Combined:** Mix the batter until the dry ingredients are just incorporated into the wet ingredients. A few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing will result in a tough cake.

### Step 6: Stir in Vanilla Extract

Stir in the vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cake and adds a touch of warmth.

* **High-Quality Vanilla:** Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. Pure vanilla extract is always preferable to imitation vanilla extract.

### Step 7: Pour Batter into Prepared Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

* **Even Distribution:** Use a spatula or offset spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan. This will ensure that the cake bakes evenly.

### Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to check the cake for doneness using a wooden skewer or toothpick.

* **Oven Temperature:** Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the cake. An inaccurate oven temperature can affect the baking time and the texture of the cake.
* **Checking for Doneness:** Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter, the cake needs to bake for a few more minutes.

### Step 9: Prepare the Topping While the Cake Bakes

While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut and chopped nuts (if using).

* **Constant Stirring:** Stir the topping constantly while it is simmering to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
* **Coconut and Nuts:** You can use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut, depending on your preference. If you are using nuts, chop them into small pieces so that they are evenly distributed throughout the topping.

### Step 10: Spread Topping on Hot Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and immediately spread the topping evenly over the hot cake. The heat from the cake will help the topping to melt and spread evenly.

* **Even Coverage:** Use a spatula or spoon to spread the topping evenly over the cake. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the cake, including the edges.

### Step 11: Broil the Topping (Optional)

If desired, broil the cake for 1-2 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent the topping from burning.

* **Close Supervision:** Broiling can quickly burn the topping, so it’s important to watch the cake closely while it is under the broiler. Keep the oven door slightly ajar and check the cake every few seconds.
* **Desired Color:** Broil the topping until it is golden brown and bubbly. This will give the topping a slightly crispy texture and enhance its flavor.

### Step 12: Let Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool completely before cutting and serving. This will allow the topping to set and prevent the cake from falling apart.

* **Cooling Time:** Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting and serving. You can also refrigerate the cake for a few hours to allow the topping to set completely.

## Tips and Variations:

* **Add a Zest of Citrus:** Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the cake batter for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cake batter for a warm and cozy flavor.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the cake batter for a chocolatey twist.
* **Different Nuts:** Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds, macadamia nuts, or hazelnuts, in the topping.
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates to the topping for a chewy texture and added sweetness.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of the cake. Be sure to use a gluten-free baking powder as well.
* **Dairy-Free Option:** Substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and the milk with a dairy-free milk alternative for a dairy-free version of the cake.
* **Storage:** Store leftover Lazy Daisy Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

## Troubleshooting:

* **Cake is dry:** This could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to measure the flour accurately and check the cake for doneness using a wooden skewer. Reduce baking time by a few minutes if necessary.
* **Cake is too dense:** This could be due to undermixing the batter or using too little baking powder. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly and use fresh baking powder.
* **Topping is too runny:** This could be due to not simmering the topping long enough or using too much milk. Make sure to simmer the topping for at least 1 minute and use the correct amount of milk.
* **Topping is burnt:** This could be due to broiling the cake for too long or too close to the heat source. Watch the cake carefully while it is under the broiler and keep the oven door slightly ajar.

## Serving Suggestions:

Lazy Daisy Cake is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of accompaniments.

* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm and buttery flavor of the cake perfectly.
* **Whipped Cream:** A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and richness.
* **Fresh Berries:** Serve with a side of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, for a burst of freshness and flavor.
* **Coffee or Tea:** Lazy Daisy Cake is a great accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

* Calories: 350-400 per serving
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 12-15g
* Cholesterol: 75-100mg
* Sodium: 150-200mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-45g
* Sugar: 25-30g
* Protein: 3-4g

## Conclusion:

Lazy Daisy Cake III is a delightful dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Its moist cake base, topped with a sweet and toasted coconut topping, makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With its clear instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness. Happy baking!