If you have a craving for a dessert that feels like a mini vacation with every bite, then the Tantalizing Hawaiian Guava Cake – Your Tropical Dessert Adventure Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This cake is a dazzling fusion of tropical flavors, combining the sweet floral notes of guava with the luscious creaminess of a cream cheese layer and the light, fluffy texture of a strawberry cake base. With coconut accents rounding out the experience, each slice offers a vibrant, refreshing escape that’s perfect for warm afternoons, celebrations, or anytime you want to bring a little island magic to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of essential ingredients that work harmoniously to build layers of tropical delight. Each one is carefully chosen not only for flavor but also for texture and color, making this cake as beautiful as it is delicious.
- 15 oz Strawberry Cake Mix: The foundational mix provides sweetness and a beautiful color that pairs perfectly with the guava.
- 1.5 cups Guava Nectar/Juice: I recommend brands like Kern’s, Jumex, or Goya for an authentic Hawaiian touch and natural sweetness.
- 3 large Eggs: Room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake texture.
- 1/3 cup Coconut Oil: Using liquid form helps keep the cake moist and adds subtle tropical richness.
- 10 oz Cream Cheese: Bring it to room temperature so it blends smoothly in the creamy layer.
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese, balancing the tang and adding tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm aromatic note.
- 8 oz Cool Whip: Thawed to lighten the cream cheese mixture for a delicate, airy topping.
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar: Adds necessary sweetness to the guava glaze.
- 4 tablespoons Cornstarch: The secret thickener that transforms the glaze into a shiny, luscious topping.
- 3 tablespoons Water: Used to create a smooth slurry with cornstarch, ensuring the glaze sets perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons Coconut Flakes: Optional, but highly recommended for that extra texture and tropical crunch.
How to Make Tantalizing Hawaiian Guava Cake – Your Tropical Dessert Adventure Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F and spraying a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This setup ensures your cake will bake evenly and won’t stick when you’re ready to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a mixer on low speed, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil for about 30 seconds. This gentle start avoids splattering. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then crank the mixer to medium-high and beat for 2 full minutes until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. This step is crucial to develop the cake’s perfect texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and pop it into the oven. Bake it for 24 to 26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The result should be a moist, fragrant strawberry-tinged cake that is the ideal canvas for your tropical layers.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
While the cake cools, beat the cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Carefully fold in the thawed Cool Whip to keep it airy and smooth. Refrigerate this mixture until your cake has cooled completely so it sets beautifully when spread.
Step 5: Make the Guava Glaze
To make the glaze, bring the guava nectar and remaining sugar to a boil in a saucepan. Meanwhile, whisk cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the boiling nectar and sugar, then boil for another 1 to 2 minutes until thick and glossy. Let it chill in the fridge while you prepare the next step for a perfect finish.
Step 6: Assemble Your Cake
Spread the chilled cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled cake, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the layer firm up and prevents mixing when you add the glaze. Once set, spoon the thick guava glaze on top and sprinkle with coconut flakes—if you’re feeling adventurous and want that tropical crunch!
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Return your cake to the fridge to chill until you’re ready to serve. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together and delivers the unforgettable tropical experience this recipe promises.
How to Serve Tantalizing Hawaiian Guava Cake – Your Tropical Dessert Adventure Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, consider garnishing the cake with fresh pineapple chunks, sliced strawberries, or even edible flowers like orchids for an exotic touch. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes not only adds visual appeal but also a delightful crunch that echoes those tropical vibes.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with light side dishes such as a refreshing mango sorbet or a citrus salad with mint. The bright acidity of these sides complements the sweet, creamy cake while balancing its richness and enhancing your whole tropical dessert adventure.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this luscious cake in individual mason jars layered with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a charming rustic look. You could also cut it into small squares and serve as bite-sized treats at a luau-themed party. No matter how you present it, this cake is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cake tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. This will preserve the freshness of the guava glaze and cream cheese layers while keeping the cake moist. It should stay delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, freeze the unglazed cake (without the cream cheese layer) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Once thawed, you can add the cream cheese topping and glaze fresh for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so if you want to warm it slightly, just bring it to room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. Warming the cake directly can affect the glaze and cream cheese layers, making them less stable.
FAQs
Can I substitute guava nectar with another fruit juice?
While guava nectar is key to capturing that authentic tropical flavor, you can experiment with passion fruit juice or pineapple juice. Just know the flavor profile will shift, and you might need to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Is it necessary to use Cool Whip in the cream cheese layer?
Cool Whip adds a light and airy texture that balances the dense cream cheese. If you prefer, whipped heavy cream can be a great alternative, but make sure it is whipped to soft peaks before folding in.
Can I make this cake vegan or dairy-free?
It would take some adaptation—like using a dairy-free cream cheese substitute, egg replacers, and a vegan-friendly cake mix—but the tropical flavors can still shine through with the right ingredients! Keep in mind texture might differ slightly.
How long does it take for the guava glaze to set?
Once chilled in the refrigerator, the guava glaze typically sets within 30 to 60 minutes. Make sure it cools completely before glazing the cake to avoid melting the cream cheese layer.
Can I use shredded fresh coconut instead of coconut flakes?
Yes, shredded fresh coconut works well and lends a more natural tropical taste, but it may be moister, so sprinkle it right before serving to keep the topping from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
Embracing the Tantalizing Hawaiian Guava Cake – Your Tropical Dessert Adventure Recipe is like inviting a little sunshine and island breeze into your kitchen. It’s a cake that’s not only visually stunning but bursting with flavor layers that truly capture the spirit of the tropics. Whether you’re treating family, friends, or yourself, this recipe promises smiles and memories with every slice. Give it a try and transform your dessert game into a Hawaiian celebration today!
Print
Tantalizing Hawaiian Guava Cake – Your Tropical Dessert Adventure Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 26 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Experience a tropical twist with this Tantalizing Hawaiian Guava Cake. Featuring a moist strawberry cake base infused with guava nectar and coconut oil, topped with a creamy cream cheese and Cool Whip layer, finished off with a luscious guava glaze and optional coconut flakes for added texture. Perfect for a refreshing dessert adventure that brings the flavors of Hawaii straight to your table.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 15 oz Strawberry Cake Mix
- 1.5 cups Guava Nectar/Juice (Kern’s, Jumex, or Goya recommended)
- 3 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup Coconut Oil (liquid form)
Cream Cheese Layer
- 10 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
Guava Glaze
- 1.5 cups Guava Nectar (for glaze, separate from cake batter)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 4 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons Water
Optional Topping
- 4 tablespoons Coconut Flakes
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.
- Mix cake batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, 1.5 cups guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil. Use a mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds to incorporate the ingredients, then scrape down the sides of the bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for 24 to 26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy and smooth. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip to create a light and airy mixture. Refrigerate this mixture while the cake cools to ensure it stays cold and firm.
- Prepare the guava glaze: In a saucepan, combine 1.5 cups guava nectar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the boiling nectar mixture. Continue to boil gently for 1-2 minutes until the glaze thickens. Remove from heat and chill in the refrigerator until cooled and slightly set.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the chilled cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. Place the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help the layer set.
- Add the glaze and finish: After the cream cheese layer has set, spoon the chilled guava glaze evenly over the cake surface. Sprinkle with coconut flakes if desired for extra texture and flavor. Return the cake to the refrigerator until ready to serve, ensuring it is well chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs and cream cheese to ensure smooth blending.
- If guava nectar is too thick, you can thin it slightly with water for the glaze.
- The coconut flakes add a lovely texture, but can be omitted if you prefer a smoother finish.
- This cake is best served chilled and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow frosting and glaze layers to fully set for clean slices when serving.
