When I think of warm coastal breezes and the sweet taste of sunshine, one special treat that never fails to bring me back is this delightful Hawaiian Guava Cake. It’s as if a slice of paradise is sitting right on your kitchen table, waiting to wrap you in its warmth. It’s a recipe born from love and cherished memories, perfect for gathering family and friends—like a cozy hug from a beloved grandparent.
Why make this recipe? Well, darling, it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories waiting to be created. This cake captures the essence of summer—vibrant flavors and the joy of togetherness. Each bite whispers tales of distant shores and the laughter of loved ones. Plus, it’s an easy recipe, perfect for bakers of all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for any family gathering or peaceful afternoon bake.
How to make Delicious Easy Hawaiian Guava Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 box Strawberry Cake Mix (Use Duncan Hines Signature Strawberry Supreme for best results.)
- 1 cup Guava Nectar or Juice (Kern’s, Jumex, or Goya are excellent choices.)
- 3 large Eggs (Ensure they are room temperature.)
- 1/2 cup Liquid Coconut Oil (Can be replaced with vegetable oil.)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (At room temperature.)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Or almond extract for a twist.)
- 8 oz Cool Whip (Thaw completely before mixing.)
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/2 cup Water (To create a slurry with cornstarch.)
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (For the glaze.)
- 1/2 cup Coconut Flakes (Optional but recommended.)
Directions:
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Cake Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil. Beat this mixture until lovely and smooth—just remember to let that happiness flow into your batter!
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your greased pan and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
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Frosting Preparation: While the cake is cooling, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix in the Cool Whip gently—such a fluffy delight!
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Guava Glaze Preparation: In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Heat over medium heat, adding in the remaining sugar until it dissolves. Pour in the guava nectar and stir until thickened.
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Assembling the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top, then drizzle the guava glaze, letting it cascade down delightfully. Sprinkle with coconut flakes if you’re feeling extra tropical!
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Serving: Cut into generous squares and serve this beautiful cake at your family gatherings or friends’ brunches—the smiles will be endless!
How to serve Hawaiian Guava Cake
This cake shines on its own, but serve it with a side of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even cozier experience. A cup of warm tea or iced coffee alongside could just make it feel like home.
How to store Hawaiian Guava Cake
Store any leftovers (if you can bear to part with them!) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it a little longer, you can freeze slices for up to a month—though honestly, I can’t imagine it lasting that long!
Tips to make Hawaiian Guava Cake
- Always use room-temperature ingredients for the best texture.
- Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding less sugar in the frosting if you prefer a lighter touch.
- Add fresh guava slices on top for an extra burst of tropical goodness.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the strawberry cake mix for vanilla or lemon if you’re feeling adventurous. Adding a touch of lime zest in the frosting can also provide a refreshing zing to your cake!
FAQs
Can I use fresh guava instead of nectar?
Yes, you can! Puree fresh guava and use it in place of the nectar for a more intense flavor. Wonderful choice!
Is this cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap the cake mix for a gluten-free alternative and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely, this cake is perfect for making a day in advance! Just be sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
There’s something undeniably heartwarming about sharing food, especially when it’s made with love and a dash of nostalgia. As you bake this Hawaiian Guava Cake, let it draw you back to cherished moments by the coast. And remember, the best part of any recipe is the joy it brings when shared—so gather your loved ones and share some sweet tropical bliss today!
Hawaiian Guava Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil. Beat until smooth.
- Pour the batter into your greased pan and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- While the cake is cooling, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until creamy.
- Add in the vanilla extract and mix in the Cool Whip gently.
- In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Heat over medium heat, adding in the remaining sugar until it dissolves.
- Pour in the guava nectar and stir until thickened.
- Once the cake is cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Drizzle the guava glaze over the frosting, letting it cascade down.
- Sprinkle with coconut flakes if desired.
- Cut into generous squares and serve at family gatherings or brunches.