Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about biting into a dessert that transports you straight to sun-soaked beaches, and this Hawaiian Guava Cake does just that! With its vibrant tropical flavors and airy layers, this recipe is not just a treat but an experience, perfect for family gatherings or those cozy weeknight dinners when you crave a hint of paradise. What makes this cake even more irresistible is its quick prep time and the option to go gluten-free, catering to all dietary needs without losing its delightful essence. Are you ready to whip up this tropical delight and impress everyone with your kitchen magic? Why is Hawaiian Guava Cake a Must-try? Tropical Escape: This cake is a true taste of paradise with its sweet guava and rich coconut flavors. Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and quick steps, it’s perfect for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike. Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for any occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit at gatherings or as a delightful family dessert. Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite fruits or choose gluten-free options to cater to everyone’s taste buds. Gorgeous Presentation: The glossy guava glaze and whipped cream topping create an eye-catching dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. If you love tropical treats, don’t forget to check out our Peanut Butter Cheesecake or the unique Jiggly Japanese Cheesecake for more delectable options! Hawaiian Guava Cake Ingredients • Create a sensational dessert with this tropical delight! For the Cake • Strawberry Cake Mix – A convenient base for your cake; opt for a gluten-free mix if needed. • Guava Nectar or Guava Juice – Infuses moisture and the essence of the tropics; you can substitute with other fruit juices, but sweeten to taste. • Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; for an egg-free option, use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg. • Coconut Oil – Adds rich tropical flavor; feel free to swap this with any neutral oil. For the Cream Cheese Layer • Cream Cheese – Brings luscious creaminess; for a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture; reduce for a lighter touch. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can be omitted for a simpler cake. • Cool Whip – Adds lightness to the layer; replace with whipped coconut cream if you prefer a dairy-free option. For the Guava Gel • Cornstarch – Thickens the guava gel; this ingredient is essential for the right texture. • Water – Used to create the cornstarch slurry; no substitutions necessary. • Sweetened Coconut Flakes – Optional but enhances texture and provides beautiful garnish! With this delightful collection of ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a memorable Hawaiian Guava Cake that will surely brighten anyone’s day! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Guava Cake Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 13×9 baking dish. Lightly coat it with vegetable spray to ensure your Hawaiian Guava Cake releases easily after baking. Keep an eye on the clock as you prepare the batter, allowing ample time for the oven to heat up to the perfect temperature. Step 2: Mix the Batter In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava juice, eggs, and melted coconut oil. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it’s well blended and smooth. The batter should be thick and slightly glossy, showing that you’ve mixed everything adequately together. Step 3: Bake the Cake Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 24-26 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating that the cake is perfectly baked. Step 4: Cool the Cake Once baked, carefully remove the cake from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it prevents the cream cheese layer from melting when applied. Give it about 30-40 minutes to cool down to room temperature before moving on to the next step. Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until it becomes fluffy and smooth. Gradually mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Fold in the Cool Whip gently until the mixture is light and airy, then cover and refrigerate it while the cake continues to cool. Step 6: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture Once the cake is completely cool, take the cream cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese layer evenly over the cake. This delightful layer adds richness to the Hawaiian Guava Cake. After spreading, return the cake to the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Step 7: Make the Guava Gel In a small saucepan, combine guava juice with sugar and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the boiling guava mixture, whisking continuously until it thickens into a gel-like consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Step 8: Glaze the Cake Once the guava gel has cooled to room temperature, pour it over the chilled cream cheese layer on your Hawaiian Guava Cake. Using a spatula, spread it evenly for a beautiful glaze that adds sweetness and shine. Make sure the glaze covers the entire top for an inviting presentation, then return the cake to the refrigerator. Step 9: Garnish and Serve Before serving, sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes over the top for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Slice the cake into squares and plate it up. Enjoy the tropical delight of the Hawaiian Guava Cake, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat on any day! How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Guava Cake Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 1 day. This works best if you’re serving it soon after baking. Fridge: Keep leftover Hawaiian Guava Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will preserve its moisture and fluffy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight container or wrapped well in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: If desired, you can gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This adds warmth and enhances the tropical flavors! Hawaiian Guava Cake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this Hawaiian Guava Cake truly yours! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to cater to dietary needs without compromising on the tropical flavor. Fruit Twist: Add diced fresh pineapple or mango to the batter for an extra fruit-infused delight. This will give a burst of sweetness and a little tropical crunch! Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and replace Cool Whip with whipped coconut cream for a delightful dairy-free version. Sweetness Control: Reduce granulated sugar in the cream cheese layer for a lighter touch. You can also use a sugar alternative for a healthier adaptation! Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper in the guava glaze to elevate the flavor profile with a hint of heat. It’s a simple twist that adds excitement! Flavor Options: Swap guava juice with passion fruit or mango juice for a different tropical profile. The cake will take on new dimensions of flavor with this easy change. Texture Addition: Mix in some shredded coconut or chopped nuts to the batter for enhanced texture and a delightful chewy element that complements the smooth cream cheese layer. Layered Delight: Create a multi-layered cake by splitting the batter into two pans and stacking them with cream cheese in between for a show-stopping presentation. If you’re a fan of tropical sweets, don’t forget to check out our delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon or indulge in the rich flavors of Butterfinger Cheesecake Sweet for more mouthwatering ideas! Make Ahead Options These Hawaiian Guava Cake layers are ideal for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy days! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; just allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly to keep it moist. The cream cheese layer can also be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For the guava gel, make it the same day you plan to serve, as it’s best fresh. When you’re ready to assemble, simply spread the cream cheese mixture over the cake, pour the cooled guava gel on top, and refrigerate until serving. This way, you’ll have a delightful Hawaiian Guava Cake with minimal effort, ensuring your dessert remains just as delicious as if made entirely fresh! What to Serve with Hawaiian Guava Cake There’s nothing quite like rounding out your tropical dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance its flavors and textures. Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits like pineapple, kiwi, and mango adds vibrant colors and refreshing bites that contrast beautifully with the rich cake. It’s a stunning addition to your dessert table! Coconut Curry: The creamy and slightly spicy notes of coconut curry create an unexpected yet harmonious balance with the sweetness of the guava cake. Serve it on the side for a unique twist in flavor. Citrus Lemonade: A glass of tart lemonade provides a zesty contrast to the sweet and creamy layers of the cake, refreshing your palate after each indulgent bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of warm Hawaiian Guava Cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream elevates the dessert experience, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the cake adds an extra layer of lightness and complements the cake’s smooth cream cheese layer, enhancing its tropical charm. Mango Sticky Rice: This Asian dessert with its sticky rice and coconut milk is a delightful twist alongside the Hawaiian Guava Cake, creating a wonderful fusion of flavors. Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink, sparkling water with a twist of lime offers a crisp, clean taste that brightens up the dessert experience without overshadowing the cake. Pineapple Sorbet: Chill out your guests with a fruity pineapple sorbet that mirrors the tropical vibes of the cake and cleanses the palate between bites. These pairings will create a magnificent spread that promises to turn your gathering into a tropical paradise! Expert Tips for Hawaiian Guava Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter, which leads to a fluffier Hawaiian Guava Cake. Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer. This prevents melting and keeps your layers beautifully intact. Perfect Gel Consistency: Check the thickness of your guava gel while cooking. Adjust the cornstarch as needed to avoid a runny sauce that could ruin the cake’s gorgeous glaze. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite fruits like pineapple or mango into the batter for added tropical fun. Gluten-Free Option: If you need to cater to gluten-free diets, simply substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free version; it will still deliver that delicious flavor! Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe guavas for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting guavas, look for ones that have a light yellow or light green color and are slightly soft to the touch. Avoid any guavas with dark spots or an overly wrinkled skin, as they may be overripe. Fresh guavas can also be found at local tropical fruit markets! What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very! After you’ve made your Hawaiian Guava Cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method keeps the cake moist and preserves its fluffy texture. Always ensure the cake is well covered to prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze this cake for later enjoyment? Of course! To freeze your Hawaiian Guava Cake, first cut it into individual serving slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This ensures they stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. What if my guava gel is too runny? Don’t worry! If you find that your guava gel hasn’t thickened properly, simply return it to the heat and whisk in a bit more cornstarch mixed with water. Pour the mixture in slowly while continuously stirring. Allow it to boil for another minute or two until it reaches the desired thickness, then remove it from the heat to cool further. Is this Hawaiian Guava Cake gluten-free? Absolutely! You can easily make this Hawaiian Guava Cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free strawberry cake mix. The flavor remains vibrant and delicious, allowing everyone to enjoy a tropical treat without any worries about wheat or gluten allergies! Can I make this cake dairy-free? Very! To make a dairy-free version, simply substitute regular cream cheese and Cool Whip with dairy-free alternatives. Brands like Kite Hill offer excellent cream cheese alternatives, while whipped coconut cream can replace Cool Whip without compromising the cake’s delightful texture. Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake That Will Brighten Your Day This Hawaiian Guava Cake is a delightful dessert that transports you to tropical paradise with its vibrant flavors and airy layers. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 26 minutes minsCooling Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 21 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 package Strawberry Cake Mix Gluten-free option available.1 cup Guava Nectar or Guava Juice Can substitute with other fruit juices.3 Eggs For an egg-free option, use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg.½ cup Coconut Oil Can be replaced with neutral oil.For the Cream Cheese Layer8 oz Cream Cheese Use dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free option.½ cup Granulated Sugar Reduce for a lighter touch.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Can be omitted.8 oz Cool Whip Substitute with whipped coconut cream if dairy-free.For the Guava Gel2 tbsp Cornstarch Essential for the right texture.½ cup Water No substitutions necessary.½ cup Sweetened Coconut Flakes Optional for garnish. Equipment 13x9 baking dishMixing bowlElectric mixerSpatulaSaucepanWire Rack Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 13x9 baking dish with vegetable spray.In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava juice, eggs, and melted coconut oil. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.Pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for 24-26 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 30-40 minutes.In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Mix in sugar and vanilla, then fold in the Cool Whip.Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled cake and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.For the guava gel, combine guava juice and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Make a slurry with cornstarch and water, then add to the boiling mixture until thickened.Pour the cooled guava gel over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate.Before serving, sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes on top. Slice and enjoy the tropical delight. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 4mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding layers to prevent melting. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
