When the summer sun starts to shine and the days become warm and inviting, I can’t help but reflect on the taste of tropical bliss right at home. Imagine the vibrant aroma of fresh guava wafting through your kitchen, transporting you to a sunny Hawaiian island with every bite. This Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe encapsulates that getaway feeling, combining the fruity sweetness of guava with the fluffy lightness of strawberry cake and a creamy, dreamy frosting.
It’s a delightful dessert that not only pleases the palate but also brings a splash of color and joy to any gathering, from backyard barbecues to family celebrations. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying those memorable moments. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this slice of paradise — your taste buds will thank you!
Why is this Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake a Must-Try?
Delightful Flavors: Each slice bursts with the tropical essence of guava and strawberry, promising a refreshing experience.
Simplicity: With minimal steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this cake is perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a showstopper for gatherings, sure to impress family and friends alike.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert or pair it with brunch favorites like coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Make Ahead: Chill it overnight for the best flavor, allowing it to become a go-to dessert for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Indulge in this tropical dream and transform your gatherings into unforgettable celebrations!
Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake Ingredients
• For the Cake Base
- Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides a moist foundation; for best results, use Duncan Hines Signature Strawberry Supreme.
- Guava Nectar or Juice – Adds a burst of fruity flavor; Kern’s, Jumex, or Goya are excellent choices, but guava concentrate can be substituted for a stronger taste.
- Eggs – Essential for binding; ensure they are room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Liquid Coconut Oil – Contributes moisture and richness; can be replaced with vegetable oil if desired.
• For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Creates a rich, creamy layer; be sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and guava glaze perfectly.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting’s flavor; almond extract can be used for a unique twist.
- Cool Whip – Adds lightness to the frosting; thaw it completely before mixing.
• For the Guava Glaze
- Cornstarch – Thickens the guava glaze to perfection; no substitutions are needed here.
- Water – Used to create a slurry with cornstarch to achieve the right glaze consistency.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the glaze for a delightful finish to the cake.
• For Garnishing
- Coconut Flakes – Optional but recommended, these add a lovely texture and tropical flavor to the final presentation.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready to make your Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake recipe, a tropical delight that’s guaranteed to brighten any occasion!
How to Make Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 13 x 9 baking dish with vegetable spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
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Mix Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and liquid coconut oil. Mix on low for 30 seconds, scrape down the sides, then beat on medium-high for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
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Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire rack and let it cool completely for the best texture and flavor.
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Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until it’s fluffy. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until combined and then refrigerate for a bit to firm it up.
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Glaze Preparation: In a saucepan, combine the guava nectar and sugar, bringing it to a low boil. Create a slurry with cornstarch and water, add it to the mixture, and cook for another minute until thickened. Cool the glaze in the refrigerator.
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Assemble Cake: Once the cake has cooled, evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the top. Drizzle the guava glaze over the cream cheese layer, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy a piece of paradise, optionally garnished with coconut flakes for that extra touch of tropical flair.
Optional: Drizzle some extra guava nectar on top before serving for enhanced flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this delightful cake and make it your own with these fun variations!
- Fruity Cake Mix: Replace the strawberry cake mix with raspberry or pineapple for a unique twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts into the batter for delightful texture.
- Coconut Oil Swap: Use melted butter in place of liquid coconut oil for a richer flavor profile.
- Milk Alternative: Substitute guava nectar with coconut milk for a creamier, tropical touch.
- Zesty Lemon: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright citrus note. It truly lifts the flavors!
- Berry Topping: Top the cream cheese layer with fresh berries like blueberries or blackberries for a colorful and fruity flair.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cake mix for an unexpected cozy spice in each bite.
- Vegan Variation: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use non-dairy cream cheese and Cool Whip for a plant-based delight that everyone can enjoy.
What to Serve with Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake?
Let your taste buds take a journey to the tropics with vibrant pairings that elevate your dessert experience.
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Coconut Milk: This creamy, slightly sweet drink perfectly complements the tropical flavors of the cake, adding a refreshing touch. Imagine sipping it alongside each delightful bite!
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Guava Juice: Enhance the guava experience by serving it chilled. The sweet, fruity notes complement the cake’s flavors, making for a cohesive tasting experience.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh pineapple, mangoes, and kiwi can balance the richness of the cake with its natural sweetness and crispness. The colors alone will brighten your table!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy and cool texture of vanilla ice cream offers a wonderful contrast to the moist cake, creating a blissful combination with each forkful.
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Palm Sugar Flan: This creamy flan provides a delightful Asian-inspired twist. Its caramel notes enhance the cake’s sweetness and bring an exotic flair to your dessert table!
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle these crunchy flakes over any serving for an added tropical texture that echoes the cake’s ingredients. They’re an easy way to elevate your presentation!
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Mango Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this sorbet adds a fruity zing that pairs beautifully with the rich guava and strawberry layers. Plus, it’s a delightful palate cleanser!
Enjoy your cake accompanied by these tropical treasures, and watch as each bite transports you to a sun-soaked paradise!
Tips for the Best Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy items like cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to blend smoothly, enhancing the cake’s texture.
Perfect Cake Timing: Keep an eye on the baking time; start checking for doneness a few minutes before the minimum time to avoid overbaking the Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake.
Guava Glaze Consistency: Don’t rush the cooling step of the glaze; it should be thick enough to spread without running off the cake.
Chill for Flavor: Letting the cake chill overnight intensifies the flavors, making every bite uniquely refreshing and delightful.
Garnishing Touch: Add toasted coconut flakes right before serving for an extra layer of flavor and a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake
Fridge: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw slices in the fridge overnight before serving. For a warm treat, microwave for about 15-20 seconds until slightly warm.
Ready to Serve: The flavors deepen after a day, making this Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake even more enjoyable when shared with family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake it as directed, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. The cream cheese layer can also be made up to 3 days ahead—just mix and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the cake. When it’s time to serve, spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled cake and drizzle with the guava glaze (which can be made simultaneously). This method ensures that every slice remains just as delicious and refreshing, making your gatherings effortless and delightful!
Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe guava for the guava nectar?
Absolutely! When choosing guava, look for fruits that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. They should have no dark spots all over, as these indicate overripeness or spoilage. If fresh guava isn’t available, using canned guava nectar or juice is a great alternative!
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Guava Cake?
Very good question! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help retain moisture and freshness for up to one week in the fridge. For added protection against accidental drying, I recommend placing a piece of parchment paper between the cake and the wrap.
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Can I freeze the Hawaiian Guava Cake?
Certainly! To freeze, first, let the cake cool completely. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer-safe bag. This method helps preserve both taste and texture. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw slices in the fridge overnight or microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
What if my guava glaze is too thin?
No worries! If your guava glaze turns out too runny, you can thicken it simply. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the glaze while it’s still warm, stirring continuously until it reaches the desired thickness. If it’s too thick after cooling, gently reheat with a splash of guava nectar to loosen it!
Is this Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! The recipe does not inherently contain nuts, but make sure your cake mix and any additional ingredients you choose are nut-free. If adding toppings like coconut or pecans, be aware of cross-contamination risks based on your kitchen setup. Always read labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’d like to switch things up, you can substitute the strawberry cake mix with other fruity varieties like pineapple or lemon. Each offers its own delightful spin, while still complementing the creamy guava and cream cheese layers beautifully!
Delicious Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe for Tropical Bliss
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 13 x 9 baking dish with vegetable spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and liquid coconut oil. Mix on low for 30 seconds, scrape down the sides, then beat on medium-high for 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 24-26 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire rack and let it cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until combined, then refrigerate.
- In a saucepan, combine guava nectar and sugar, bringing it to a low boil.
- Create a slurry with cornstarch and water, add to the mixture, and cook for another minute until thickened. Cool the glaze.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture over the top, then drizzle the guava glaze over it.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. Optionally garnish with coconut flakes.
- Slice into squares and enjoy, optionally drizzled with extra guava nectar for enhanced flavor.