Mindy Kaling recently joined the ranks of celebrities who receive Tom Cruise’s highly coveted Christmas coconut cake. The actress shared a photo of the decadent dessert on her Instagram, captioning it with the knowing phrase, “Iykyk,” short for “If you know, you know.” The cake, presented on a gold plate inside a simple cardboard box, is a holiday tradition for Cruise, who sends it to a select group of A-list friends and colleagues.
Cruise, known for his generosity and over-the-top gestures, has been gifting the coconut cake for years. Actor Glen Powell, who co-starred with Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick, also received the annual treat. Powell shared a photo of his cake on social media, showcasing the accompanying card from Cruise, which read, “To Glen Powell, warmest wishes to you this Holiday Season. Tom Cruise.”
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Powell, a self-proclaimed fan of the cake, has previously spoken about its legendary deliciousness. He even hosts an annual “Cruise Cake Party,” inviting friends to partake in the limited treat. However, he jokingly admits to having to enforce strict portion control to ensure everyone gets a taste. “It’s usually demolished by the end of the night,” Powell confessed.
The origin of Cruise’s coconut cake tradition remains somewhat mysterious, but its reputation precedes it. The cake, a white chocolate coconut bundt cake from Doan’s Bakery in Woodland Hills, California, has become a symbol of holiday cheer and a coveted gift among Hollywood’s elite.
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Other celebrities who have reportedly received the coveted cake include Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Angela Bassett, Hayley Atwell, Rosie O’Donnell, and Tom Hanks. However, the list seems to fluctuate from year to year. Actress Brooke Shields recently revealed that she was mysteriously removed from the recipient list after a decade-long run. Shields playfully questioned why she’d been cut off, speculating about potential reasons, adding a touch of intrigue to the already famous cake.
The enduring popularity and exclusivity of Tom Cruise’s coconut cake have solidified its place in Hollywood lore. It’s a testament to the power of a simple gesture and the enduring appeal of a truly delicious dessert. The cake even earned a spot on PEOPLE’s 50 Food Faves of 2023, further cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon.
