Introduction to Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting
Welcome to a slice of paradise! If you’re looking for a dessert that brings sunshine to your table, the Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting is just the ticket. This delightful cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to brighten up a busy day, this cake is your go-to solution. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to impress your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting
This Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting is a dream come true for busy home cooks like me. It’s quick to whip up, taking just about an hour from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s like a tropical vacation in every bite! The creamy frosting and luscious guava glaze elevate it to a whole new level, making it perfect for any gathering or just a sweet treat for yourself.
Ingredients for Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- White cake mix: This is the base of your cake, providing a light and fluffy texture.
- Guava nectar: Unsweetened guava nectar adds a tropical flavor. Look for it in the juice aisle or at specialty stores.
- Vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and tender. You can substitute with melted coconut oil for an extra tropical twist.
- Large eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add richness to the cake.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it more aromatic.
- Food coloring (optional): A few drops of red or pink food coloring can brighten the cake, giving it a fun, festive look.
- Cream cheese: This is the star of your creamy frosting, providing a rich and tangy flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds creaminess and helps achieve that fluffy frosting texture.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth consistency.
- Heavy cream: Adding this helps adjust the frosting’s texture to your liking, making it spreadable.
- Guava glaze ingredients: More guava nectar, sugar, cornstarch (for thickening), and lemon juice for a zesty kick.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour. This will help your cake layers slide out easily once they’re baked. Trust me, no one wants a cake disaster!
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, guava nectar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a few drops of food coloring for a pop of color! Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. I like to use a hand mixer for this, but a whisk works just fine too. The batter should be thick yet pourable, like a tropical smoothie. Once it’s ready, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean, they’re ready! Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Frosting
While the cakes cool, let’s whip up that dreamy frosting! In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until they’re fluffy and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. If the frosting is too thick, drizzle in some heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. This creamy frosting is the perfect complement to your Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake!
Step 5: Prepare the Guava Glaze
Now, let’s make that luscious guava glaze! In a saucepan, combine the remaining guava nectar and sugar. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Cook until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Remove it from the heat and add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick. Let it cool slightly before using it on your cake.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
It’s time to bring everything together! Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of creamy frosting on top. Then, gently place the second cake layer on top. Frost the outside lightly, creating a smooth finish. Finally, pour the cooled guava glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. For a fun touch, decorate with whipped cream swirls or tropical fruit slices. Your Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting is now ready to shine!
Tips for Success
- Always use unsweetened guava nectar for the best flavor.
- Let your cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Adjust the heavy cream in the frosting for your preferred consistency.
- For a vibrant color, add more food coloring as needed.
- Don’t rush the glaze; let it cool slightly for the best texture.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for the batter and a smaller one for the frosting.
- Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk can do the job too.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- 9-inch round cake pans: If you don’t have these, use square pans instead.
- Spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting and glaze evenly.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a delicious gluten-free Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting.
- Fruit Add-Ins: Add chopped fresh pineapple or shredded coconut to the batter for an extra tropical twist.
- Vegan Version: Use a vegan cake mix, replace eggs with flax eggs, and swap cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolate guava cake, pairing beautifully with the creamy frosting.
- Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in the frosting and glaze to reduce the overall sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with fresh tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a colorful plate.
- For drinks, consider a refreshing coconut water or a fruity mocktail.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting
Can I use fresh guava instead of guava nectar?
Absolutely! If you have fresh guava, you can puree it and use it in place of guava nectar. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness, as fresh guava can be less sweet than nectar.
How do I store leftover Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Frost the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. It will give you a similar creamy texture without the dairy.
Is this Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting suitable for special diets?
Yes! With a few adjustments, you can make this cake gluten-free or vegan. Just follow the variations I mentioned earlier, and you’ll have a delicious cake that everyone can enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting is more than just baking; it’s about bringing joy to your kitchen and your loved ones. Each slice is a burst of tropical flavor, transporting you to sun-soaked beaches with every bite. I love how this cake can turn an ordinary day into a celebration, whether it’s a birthday, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. Trust me, this cake will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake with Creamy Frosting delights!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Tropical Hawaiian Guava Cake topped with creamy frosting and a luscious guava glaze, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup guava nectar (unsweetened)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A few drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (as needed)
- 2 cups guava nectar
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch (mixed with ¼ cup water)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix cake mix, guava nectar, oil, eggs, vanilla, and food coloring until smooth.
- Pour into pans and bake 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before assembling.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Add heavy cream until desired texture is reached.
- In a saucepan, bring guava nectar and sugar to a simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat, add lemon juice, and let cool slightly.
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a layer of creamy frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the outside lightly.
- Pour cooled guava glaze over the top, letting it drip beautifully down the sides. Decorate with whipped cream swirls, tropical fruit slices, or edible flowers if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the guava nectar is unsweetened for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream in the frosting for desired consistency.
- For a more vibrant color, add more food coloring as needed.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
