When I first took a bite of Hawaiian Guava Cake, a wave of sunshine enveloped me, transporting me straight to a tropical paradise. The vibrant guava flavors fused with a creamy coconut layer bring such bliss that it feels like a celebration in every bite. Those moments before a gathering, when you want to impress your friends or family, can be daunting, but this cake transforms any occasion into an island-inspired feast without much effort. Its stunning glossy glaze and moist texture are sure to be a showstopper on your dessert table! Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a lively summer luau, this easy-to-follow recipe makes baking a delightful experience. Let’s dive into creating this decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake that’s bound to leave your guests asking for seconds!
Why is Hawaiian Guava Cake a must-try?
Deliciously Exotic: This Hawaiian Guava Cake captures the essence of tropical flavors, delighting your taste buds with every bite.
Effortlessly Impressive: With minimal preparation and simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that looks like it came from a bakery.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for luaus, parties, or family dinners, this cake appeals to all ages, making it a crowd favorite.
Tempting Texture: The combination of moist cake, creamy cheese layer, and glossy guava gel brings a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
Time-Saving: Quick to whip up, it allows you to spend more time with guests, so your gatherings are filled with fun and laughter.
Customizable Options: Want to switch things up? Explore our variation ideas to personalize this cake to your taste!
Hawaiian Guava Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides structure and sweetness; substitute with gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option.
• Guava Juice/Nectar – Imparts tropical flavor and moisture; fresh guava juice can enhance the taste.
• Eggs (3 large, room temperature) – Acts as a binding agent; substitute with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce for an egg-free version.
• Coconut Oil (½ cup, melted) – Adds moisture and coconut flavor; vegetable oil can also work as a substitute.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, room temperature) – Creates a rich, creamy layer; use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the cream cheese layer; adjust to taste or replace with a sugar alternative.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese layer; opt for pure vanilla for a richer taste.
• Cool Whip (8 oz, thawed) – Lightens the cream cheese mixture for a fluffy texture; substitute with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
For the Guava Gel
• Granulated Sugar (for Guava Gel) – Sweetens the gel; can be replaced with a natural sweetener.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp) – Thickens the Guava Gel for a glossy finish; arrowroot starch can be used as an alternative.
• Water (¼ cup, for slurry) – Combines with cornstarch for thickening; use cold water for the best results.
Optional Topping
• Sweetened Coconut Flakes (1 cup) – Adds a decorative touch and tropical crunch; unsweetened coconut can also be used.
How to Make Hawaiian Guava Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 13 x 9 baking dish with vegetable spray. This helps your cake come out effortlessly once it’s baked.
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Mix together the strawberry cake mix, guava juice, eggs, and melted coconut oil in a mixer. Start on low for 30 seconds, scrape the sides, then beat on medium-high for 2 minutes until well combined.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 24–26 minutes, or until golden brown. Check for doneness using a toothpick—once it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, you’re good to go!
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Cool the cake on a wire rack until it is completely cooled. This step is crucial to prevent melting the cream cheese layer later.
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Beat the cream cheese until nice and fluffy. Then, add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, folding in the Cool Whip gently. Refrigerate this mixture until you’re ready to use it.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cake and chill it in the fridge to set. This will make for a luscious layer that pairs wonderfully with the cake.
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Prepare the Guava Gel: In a saucepan, bring guava juice and granulated sugar to a boil. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, whisking it into the juice mixture until it thickens, which should only take a few minutes.
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Cool the Guava Gel slightly before pouring it over the top of the cake for a glossy finish. This eye-catching glaze adds that perfect tropical touch!
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Refrigerate the finished cake until you’re ready to serve. If you’d like, garnish with coconut flakes for an extra crunch and presentation boost.
Optional: Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the fruity flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Guava Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smoother batter and cream cheese layer.
- Check Doneness: Avoid overbaking by checking the cake with a toothpick every couple of minutes after 24 minutes; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent it from melting and blending into the cake.
- Slurry Consistency: When making the Guava Gel, whisk the cornstarch mixture vigorously to achieve a smooth consistency without clumps before adding it to the hot guava juice.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle extra sweetened coconut flakes on top for added texture and that beautiful tropical look for your Hawaiian Guava Cake.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Guava Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their dessert lineup! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cake, allow it to cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The cream cheese layer can be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the guava gel, prepare it the day before serving and allow it to cool before glazing the cake. When you’re ready to impress, spread the cream cheese layer over the cake, top it with the guava gel, and garnish with coconut flakes right before serving to ensure everything remains as fresh and delicious as possible!
Hawaiian Guava Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can transform your cake into something uniquely yours!
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Tropical Fruit Medley: Add fresh diced pineapple or mango to the batter for an extra burst of fruity goodness.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute dairy cream cheese and Cool Whip with their vegan counterparts for a plant-based version without losing creaminess.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the cream cheese mixture, inviting a refreshing citrus contrast that brightens the overall flavor.
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Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze for a rich and decadent touch that will appeal to all chocolate lovers.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the tropical flavors.
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Spiced Twist: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a subtly warm flavor that pairs beautifully with the guava.
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Coconut-Lover’s Dream: Use coconut cream instead of Cool Whip for the cream cheese mixture, enriching it with intense coconut flavor and lush texture.
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Extra Creamy: Layer more cream cheese between the cake layers or on top for those who crave an indulgent, rich cake experience.
These variations are sure to spark your creativity, letting you make this cake into a personal treasure each time you bake it!
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Guava Cake
Fridge: Keep your Hawaiian Guava Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Hawaiian Guava Cake, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. This ensures a soft texture upon serving.
Reheating: If desired, individual pieces can be gently reheated in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back the delightful flavors before serving.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Guava Cake?
Delight your guests by crafting a vibrant meal that complements the tropical charm of this stunning cake.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of juicy fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi brings a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cake.
- Coconut Curry: A savory coconut curry balances the cake’s sweetness while enhancing its tropical notes, creating a well-rounded meal experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast of temperature and texture while enhancing the cake’s fruity flavors.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: The savory, slightly sweet pineapple fried rice adds a deliciously tropical twist to your dinner spread, harmonizing perfectly with the cake.
- Lemonade or Coconut Water: Refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade or coconut water keep the tropical vibe alive while cleansing the palate between bites.
- Mango Sorbet: A light mango sorbet offers a fruity and icy complement, making it an ideal light finish alongside the luscious guava cake.
- Key Lime Pie: The tartness of key lime pie provides a delicious contrast to the sweet cream cheese layer, creating a refreshing end to your meal.
- Asian-style Spring Rolls: Crisp veggie spring rolls add a crunch and fresh element, bridging the flavors from savory to sweet beautifully.
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of enjoying the Hawaiian Guava Cake, making your gathering both enjoyable and memorable!
Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe FAQs
What ingredients should I look for in ripe guava?
Absolutely! When selecting guava for your Hawaiian Guava Cake, look for fruits that are slightly soft to the touch with a fragrant, sweet aroma. The skin should be vibrant and free from dark spots. If you’re opting for guava juice, ensure it’s 100% pure with no added sugars for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Guava Cake?
Very easy! After serving, keep any leftovers covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps to retain the cake’s moisture and flavor, ensuring each slice is just as delightful as the first.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Guava Cake for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, first wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The cake can be preserved for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight.
What if my cake isn’t rising properly?
If your Hawaiian Guava Cake isn’t rising, it could be due to expired baking soda in the cake mix or not baking it long enough. Always check the expiration dates on your ingredients and consider using a toothpick to ensure it’s fully baked. You want it to come out clean or with just a few crumbs for the best texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the regular ingredients to fit your needs. For a vegan version, use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped toppings. Additionally, ensure that the cake mix is gluten-free if necessary, and feel free to replace the eggs with unsweetened applesauce.
How can I enhance the flavor of my guava layer?
To add extra depth to the guava layer, incorporate fresh lime juice or zest. Simply squeeze the juice from half a lime into the guava mixture while cooking it down to create a balanced tang that beautifully complements the sweetness. Enjoy experimenting!
Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 13 x 9 baking dish with vegetable spray.
- Mix together the strawberry cake mix, guava juice, eggs, and melted coconut oil in a mixer on low for 30 seconds, then beat on medium-high for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 24–26 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool the cake on a wire rack until completely cooled.
- Beat the cream cheese until fluffy, add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, then fold in the Cool Whip and refrigerate.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cake and chill in the fridge to set.
- Prepare the Guava Gel by bringing guava juice and granulated sugar to a boil, then whisk in the cornstarch slurry until thickened.
- Cool the Guava Gel slightly before pouring it over the top of the cake.
- Refrigerate the finished cake until ready to serve and garnish with coconut flakes if desired.