If you’ve ever dreamed of a slice of paradise on your plate, this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics. With its light and moist strawberry cake base soaked in fragrant guava nectar, topped with a creamy swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting and fluffy whipped topping, this cake is a celebration of vibrant island flavors. Bursting with the sweet, floral essence of guava and a hint of coconut, it’s an irresistible treat that’s perfect for every occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe is all about simple, accessible ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of incredible flavor and texture. Each one plays a part, from the fruity strawberry cake mix to the luscious cream cheese and tropical coconut flakes that add a delightful crunch on top.
- Strawberry Cake Mix (15 oz): The base that brings a subtle fruity sweetness and lovely pink hue, making the cake irresistibly charming.
- Guava Nectar or Guava Juice (1 1/2 cups + 2 1/2 cups): The star tropical flavor, used both to soak the cake and as a base for the glaze, enhancing moisture and zing.
- Eggs (3, room temperature): Essential for structure and tenderness in the cake crumb.
- Coconut Oil (1/3 cup, liquid): Adds a hint of tropical richness and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
- Cream Cheese (10 oz, room temperature): Creates the creamy frosting layer with a pleasant tang that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup): Sweetens both the cream cheese frosting and the guava glaze to perfection.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the frosting’s flavor.
- Cool Whip (8 oz, thawed): Adds lightness and fluffy texture to the cream cheese topping.
- Cornstarch (4 tablespoons): Helps thicken the guava glaze, giving it a smooth, luscious consistency.
- Water (3 tablespoons): Combined with cornstarch to create the glaze’s perfect texture.
- Sweetened Coconut Flakes (4 tablespoons, optional): A beautiful and delicious garnish that offers a delicate crunch and extra tropical flair.
How to Make Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven according to the cake mix instructions, usually around 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar (1 1/2 cups), eggs, and liquid coconut oil. This mixture is your base, perfectly blending moist tropical notes with the cake’s airy structure. Beat it all together until smooth and pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The moment it’s done, let it cool completely, which is key for the next steps to work wonders.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
This frosting is where creamy meets dreamy. In a bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip, which lightens the mixture and adds a cloud-like texture. Once the cake is fully cooled, spread this luscious cream cheese topping evenly over the surface. It’s tangy, sweet, and balances the cake’s fruity base perfectly.
Step 3: Create and Add the Guava Glaze
Time to give the cake an extra tropical glaze packed with shiny flavor. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining 2 1/2 cups of guava nectar, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir continuously over medium heat until the glaze thickens to a glossy, syrupy consistency. Let this cool slightly, then carefully drizzle or pour it over the cream cheese layer. This step locks in moisture and gives the cake its signature Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe allure. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes on top for a final beautiful and tasty touch.
How to Serve Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cake is already beautiful on its own, adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes not only enhances the tropical vibes but also provides a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake and creamy frosting. Fresh guava slices or even a few strawberries placed artistically on top make for elegant adornments. These little extras will wow your guests and make each slice feel like a special island treat.
Side Dishes
This cake shines brightest as the star of the dessert table, but pairing it with light accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple tropical fruit salad creates a balanced and refreshing combination. The cool creaminess of ice cream complements the cake’s rich frosting, while the fresh fruit salad echoes its fruity notes without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe in mini portions using cupcake liners or dessert glasses layered with cake pieces, cream cheese frosting, and guava glaze as a parfait-style treat. You can also cut the cake into squares and serve with little cocktail umbrellas for a festive tropical party vibe—perfect for summer gatherings or luaus. Presentation is half the fun, so get creative and enjoy sharing this island delight with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps beautifully in the fridge for several days thanks to the cream cheese frosting and guava glaze. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. Leftovers will taste even better the next day, as the flavors have a chance to meld.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake if you want to prepare it ahead. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing in the freezer. This method preserves the tropical flavors, but it’s best to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain texture quality.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled cake with cream cheese frosting and glaze, reheating generally isn’t necessary or recommended. Instead, serve it straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor experience. If the glaze firms up too much in the cold, you can let the cake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before indulging.
FAQs
Can I use fresh guava instead of guava nectar?
Fresh guava has a wonderful flavor but lacks the concentrated sweetness and liquid consistency of guava nectar. You could use fresh guava to make a puree and adjust the sugar and liquid amounts, but for the easiest and most consistent results, guava nectar or juice is preferred in this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe.
Is there a substitute for coconut oil in the cake?
Yes! You can swap coconut oil for vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer, but coconut oil adds a subtle tropical richness that complements the guava beautifully. If using butter, the flavor will be richer but less coconut-forward.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
While this recipe uses a store-bought strawberry cake mix that typically contains gluten, you can substitute with a gluten-free strawberry cake mix of similar size. Just check the box for baking times and adjustments. This way, you can still enjoy the beloved Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe even with dietary restrictions.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, your Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe remains fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Beyond that, the texture might change slightly, but the flavors will still be delightful.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The guava glaze can be made a day ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. Just warm it slightly and stir before pouring over the cake. This step can help make your baking day even easier and less rushed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe that combines the ease of a boxed cake mix with the joy of tropical flavors and creamy indulgence. It’s a dessert that invites sharing, sparking smiles and warm memories with every bite. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a slice of island sunshine into your kitchen. Give it a go and watch your friends and family fall in love with every forkful!
Print
Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes + 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
This Hawaiian Guava Cake is a tropical delight that combines the sweetness of guava nectar and strawberry cake mix with a creamy guava-flavored topping. Light, fluffy, and bursting with island-inspired flavors, this cake is perfect for any occasion and delivers a refreshing twist on a classic dessert.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 Strawberry Cake Mix (15 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups Guava Nectar or Guava Juice (Kern’s, Jumex, or Goya)
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup Coconut Oil (liquid)
Cream Cheese Topping
- 10 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
Guava Sauce
- 2 1/2 cups Guava Nectar or Guava Juice (Pink is better)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons Water
Garnish
- 4 tablespoons sweetened Coconut Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven as directed on the strawberry cake mix box. In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, 1 1/2 cups guava nectar or juice, eggs, and liquid coconut oil. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake according to the cake mix instructions, typically around 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Fold in the thawed Cool Whip gently until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled cake.
- Prepare the Guava Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the remaining 2 1/2 cups guava nectar or juice, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the warm guava sauce evenly over the cream cheese topping layer. Sprinkle the top with sweetened coconut flakes if desired for added texture and tropical flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set the layers and flavors. Slice into 12 pieces and serve chilled for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Using pink guava nectar gives a brighter color and more authentic flavor to the guava sauce.
- Coconut oil can be substituted with vegetable oil if needed.
- Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- For added texture, lightly toast the coconut flakes before sprinkling them on top.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator; consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
