The Ugly Duckling Cake is a vintage Southern dessert! It’s so easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Classic Ugly Duckling Cake
If you love easy recipes, this will instantly be a hit! It’s so simple to make, and if you don’t want to use a cake mix, no problem- just make your favorite yellow cake. It’s not the prettiest cake, which is probably why it got its name, but it sure is delicious. You don’t even have to get out a mixer, which is always a plus.
Do You Have To Use The Coconut?
We always get this question when we post a recipe with coconut, and honestly, I think this recipe needs it, but you could always try to make it without. We have never made it any other way other than the way it is written.


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Ugly Duckling Cake
This Ugly Duckling Cake is wonderful despite it’s name! The easiest cake you will make and true vintage southern dessert.
- 1 15.25 ounce yellow cake mix
- 1 15 ounce can fruit cocktail, do not drain
- 2 eggs
Swirl Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup or 8 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
Topping Instructions
-
Bring evaporated milk, sugar and butter to a rolling boil in a pan on top of the stove. Boil for one minute stirring often as will boil over on stove. Remove from stove and add coconut. Mix well. Spread over cake. Makes 10 to 12 servings.
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