Sunny Boy Coffee Cake with Caramel Topping: A Nostalgic Treat
This delightful Sunny Boy Coffee Cake with Caramel Topping is not just a recipe; itβs a trip down memory lane, reminding us of the simple pleasures of childhood and the love that goes into home baking. When I discovered this gem among my motherβs treasured recipe collection, I immediately recalled the warmth of our family kitchen, the scent of baked goods wafting through the air, and the delightful crunch of the cereal that gives this cake its unique flavor. This recipe perfectly marries nostalgia with the rich taste of caramel and coconut, making it an ideal choice for brunches, afternoon snacks, or dessert.
Recipe Overview
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Cook Time | 40 minutes |
Prep Time | 20 minutes |
Total Time | 1 hour |
Category | Breads |
Servings | One 9×13 inch cake |
Calories | 5072.1 |
Fat Content | 255.6 g |
Saturated Fat | 170.2 g |
Cholesterol | 1122.5 mg |
Sodium | 5293.2 mg |
Carbohydrates | 674.3 g |
Fiber | 18.4 g |
Sugar | 529.3 g |
Protein | 43.9 g |
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Boiling water | 1 1/4 cups |
Butter | 1 cup (softened) |
White sugar | 1/2 cup |
Brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
Eggs | 3 large |
Flour | 1 1/3 cups |
Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Melted butter (for topping) | 1/2 cup |
Brown sugar (for topping) | 1 cup |
Eggs (for topping) | 1 large |
Shredded coconut | 1 cup |
Vanilla extract (for topping) | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cereal Mixture
Begin by pouring boiling water over Sunny Boy cereal in a mixing bowl. Stir gently to ensure the cereal is well-blended with the water, and then set aside to cool. This step is crucial as it allows the cereal to soften, creating a lovely texture in the final cake.

Step 2: Cream the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine white sugar, butter, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, leading to a moist and tender cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
To the creamed mixture, add the cooled Sunny Boy cereal mixture along with vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, beating well to combine. The batter will become thick and slightly lumpy, which is perfectly fine.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan generously to ensure easy removal of the cake once baked. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in a preheated oven set to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake to avoid overbaking, as each oven can vary slightly.
Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Topping
While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel topping. In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and 1 egg, beating the mixture until itβs well-combined and smooth. Stir in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the coconut topping over the hot cake. The heat from the cake will help the topping meld beautifully into the cake. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the topping to caramelize slightly and enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After the second baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat.
Enjoying Your Sunny Boy Coffee Cake
As you serve your Sunny Boy Coffee Cake with Caramel Topping, take a moment to savor not only the flavors but also the memories associated with it. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of sweetness and texture, while the warm, caramelized coconut topping adds an irresistible charm. Whether enjoyed with friends or family, this cake is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire, just as it was in my childhood home.
Happy baking!