If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that captures the tropical sweetness and vibrant colors of Hawaii, then you are in for a treat with this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe. This cake brings together the fruity zing of guava nectar, the lusciousness of creamy frosting, and the light, fluffy texture of strawberry cake to create a truly unforgettable dessert experience. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion, and once you make it, you’ll understand why this classic Hawaiian favorite has such a loyal following. Let’s dive into creating this delicious slice of paradise!

Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe keeps the ingredient list beautifully simple yet packed with flavors that complement each other perfectly. Each component plays an essential role in balancing sweetness, texture, and that tropical flair we all crave.

Strawberry Cake Mix: Provides a fruity base and beautiful pink color that brings the cake to life.
Guava Nectar or Guava Juice: Infuses the cake with authentic tropical flavor and adds moisture for a tender crumb.
Eggs (room temperature): Help bind the ingredients together while contributing to cake structure.
Coconut Oil (liquid): Adds subtle richness and enhances moistness.
Cream Cheese (room temperature): Creates a velvety, tangy whipped layer that balances the sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the frosting and the guava gel for the perfect glaze.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the underlying flavors with a warm aroma.
Cool Whip (thawed): Lightens the cream cheese layer for a fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
Cornstarch: Thickens the guava nectar into a glossy gel topping.
Water: Used to make the cornstarch slurry to create the perfect consistency for the glaze.
Sweetened Coconut Flakes (optional): Adds a beautiful tropical garnish and extra texture.

How to Make Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 13 x 9-inch baking dish lightly with vegetable spray to prevent sticking. Mix the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil using a mixer. Begin on low speed for 30 seconds, scraping down the bowl to ensure even mixing, then beat on medium-high speed for 2 full minutes to create a smooth batter. Pour it into your baking dish and bake for 24 to 26 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn a lovely golden color and a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Then, let it cool completely on a wire rack before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Layer

While the cake cools, whip up the luxurious cream cheese layer. Beat the cream cheese until it’s fluffy, then add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip to give the mixture a light and airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s softness. Once mixed, spread this dreamy layer evenly over the cooled cake. Pop the whole thing into the fridge—or even the freezer for a short time—to let the cream cheese set firmly before adding the guava glaze.

Step 3: Make the Guava Gel Topping

To finish off this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe, the guava gel topping gives that shiny, fruity crown everyone will admire. In a medium saucepan, combine the guava nectar and sugar, bringing it to a gentle boil over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Meanwhile, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth to create the slurry. Remove the guava mixture from the heat and whisk in the slurry thoroughly. Return the pan to the stove and boil again for 1 minute until thickened. Allow this to cool fully in the fridge before spreading a generous layer over the cream cheese. For the final flourish, sprinkle with sweetened coconut flakes if you’re feeling tropical!

How to Serve Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing elevates a Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe quite like a thoughtful garnish. Toasted coconut flakes add a wonderful crunch and enhance the tropical vibe, while fresh guava slices or even delicate edible flowers bring a lovely visual and flavor compliment. Sprinkle lightly so the garnishes don’t overpower the cake’s delicate glaze.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit salads featuring pineapple, mango, or papaya. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream can also provide a creamy balance, making your dessert more decadent and memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can turn this cake into the star at any party. Try layering individual slices in clear glass cups topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of guava glaze for single-serve parfaits. For gatherings, you can also cut it into small squares and place each piece on cocktail napkins with a coconut flake garnish for easy, elegant finger food. Either way, your guests will be wowed by this tropical delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, your Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the cake from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake before adding the guava gel topping. Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic and then foil, freezing it for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw completely in the refrigerator, then prepare the cream cheese layer and guava glaze fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this cake features creamy and juicy layers, reheating isn’t recommended as it may affect texture. Instead, allow any chilled cake slices to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to bring out the full flavor and softness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh guava instead of guava nectar?

Fresh guava can be delicious, but for this cake, guava nectar works best since it blends smoothly into the batter and forms the perfect glaze consistency. If you want to experiment with fresh fruit, you might need to puree it and strain to remove pulp and seeds first.

Is there a dairy-free version of this Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute coconut oil for butter and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative alongside coconut whipped topping instead of Cool Whip. Just ensure the cream cheese alternative is soft enough to whip nicely for the creamy layer.

What type of coconut flakes should I use for garnish?

Sweetened coconut flakes are a popular choice because their slight sweetness complements the guava gel. Toasted unsweetened flakes are also fantastic if you prefer a nuttier flavor and deeper texture contrast.

Can I make this cake without a boxed cake mix?

You can, but the boxed strawberry cake mix simplifies this recipe while ensuring consistent texture and flavor. If making from scratch, use strawberry puree and adjust the sweetness to mimic the mix’s profile.

How long does it take for the cream cheese layer to set before adding the glaze?

Typically, chilling the cream cheese layer for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator is enough to firm it up. Alternatively, a quick 15-20 minute stint in the freezer works if you’re short on time.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug from the islands—fruity, creamy, and impossibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet tropical escape, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab those guava nectar bottles and get baking—you’re about to create magic in your kitchen!

Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe