Name: Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 box Strawberry Cake Mix; 1 cup Guava Nectar or Guava Juice; 3 large Eggs, room temperature; 1/2 cup Coconut Oil, melted; 8 oz Cream Cheese, room temperature; 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed; 2 1/2 cups Guava Nectar or Guava Juice; 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 tbsp Cornstarch; 1/4 cup Water (for slurry); 1 cup Sweetened Coconut Flakes (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 34 reviews

If you are craving a dessert that transports you straight to a tropical paradise, the Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe is your perfect match. This luscious cake offers an irresistible combination of sweet strawberry base infused with vibrant guava flavor, a silky cream cheese layer, and a glossy guava glaze crowned with coconut flakes. Every bite bursts with tropical sunshine and velvety textures, making it not just a treat but a celebration of Hawaiian-inspired flavors that will brighten up any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

This recipe calls for simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component contributes uniquely to the cake’s moistness, tropical aroma, and stunning color, ensuring an unforgettable taste and presentation.

Strawberry Cake Mix: The foundation of the cake brings in a naturally sweet, fruity flavor and airy texture.
Guava Nectar or Guava Juice: Replaces water in the batter and appears again in the glaze, lending the cake its signature exotic tang.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake, ensuring it rises perfectly and stays tender.
Coconut Oil: Adds wonderful moisture and a subtle tropical hint that pairs perfectly with guava and strawberry.
Cream Cheese: For a luscious, creamy layer that balances the fruity sweetness with a slight tang.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the cream cheese layer and the guava gel for deep, balanced flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall depth and warmth in the cream cheese topping.
Cool Whip: Whipped into the cream cheese for lightness and smooth texture.
Cornstarch and Water: Create a smooth slurry that thickens the guava gel glaze into a glossy finish.
Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Optional but highly recommended for adding crunch and a tropical finishing touch as garnish.

How to Make Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly spraying a 13 x 9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and melted coconut oil. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then scrape the bowl and blend on medium-high for about 2 minutes to ensure a smooth, well-incorporated batter. Pour this tropical batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 24 to 26 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick – if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Let it cool completely on a wire rack to prepare for the next luscious layers.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer

While the cake cools, tackle the creamy layer. Beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy, then gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip, creating an airy, smooth topping that perfectly contrasts the dense cake beneath. Once mixed, spread this creamy delight evenly over the cooled cake and refrigerate so it can set properly.

Step 3: Make the Guava Gel Glaze

Pour 2 1/2 cups of guava nectar and the sugar into a saucepan, bringing it to a low boil. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then slowly whisk this into the heated guava mixture. Continue cooking and stirring for about one minute until the glaze thickens into a shiny, smooth gel. Cool this guava glaze in the refrigerator before gently spreading it over the cream cheese layer. This glossy topping not only adds vibrant color but also a burst of intense tropical flavor.

Step 4: Add Optional Coconut Flake Garnish

For that extra poetic touch of the Hawaiian islands, sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes liberally over the guava gel. The flakes add a delightful crunch and reinforce the cake’s exotic flair. Chill the entire cake until you’re ready to serve and enjoy a tropical escape in every slice.

How to Serve Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe

The image shows a slice of cake on a white plate with a silver fork beside it. The cake has three visible layers: a bottom thin yellow layer, a thick pink middle layer, and a white creamy layer on top. The whole cake slice is covered with a light pink glaze, smooth and shiny, extending slightly onto the sides. A delicate pale pink flower sits on top of the cake slice as decoration. In the background, there is the rest of the cake, also pink and white, on a white plate, with a soft blue cloth on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Aside from the sweetened coconut flakes, fresh guava slices or tropical flowers like edible orchids make beautiful garnishes. They lend a refined, festive vibe perfect for summer parties or any special gathering that calls for a tropical treat.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments such as a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream, a refreshing fruit salad featuring pineapple and mango, or even a mildly brewed cup of jasmine tea. Each side brings balance, enhancing rather than overpowering the cake’s vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique presentation, serve the Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe in individual clear glasses with alternating layers of cake, cream cheese filling, and guava gel, creating gorgeous visual layers. Alternatively, cut into small squares to create a tropical finger food platter perfect for casual gatherings and luaus.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this cake includes cream cheese and a delicate glaze, it should be refrigerated in an airtight container. Properly stored, leftovers stay fresh and moist for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient dessert to enjoy over several days.

Freezing

Freezing this cake is possible but requires caution to maintain texture. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Note that the cream cheese layer may become a bit denser after freezing but will still be delicious.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is generally not necessary. If preferred, bring slices to room temperature by letting them sit out for about 20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to open up.

FAQs

Can I use fresh guava instead of guava nectar?

Fresh guava can be used but would require making your own juice by blending and straining the fruit. Guava nectar or juice ensures consistent flavor and smooth texture, especially for the glaze.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, swap cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a non-dairy whipped topping. Coconut oil already keeps the recipe friendly for dairy-free adaptations.

How can I make the guava gel thicker if it’s too runny?

Add a little more cornstarch slurry gradually while heating, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired thickness. Be careful not to add too much to avoid a gummy texture.

Can I substitute strawberry cake mix with another flavor?

Strawberry cake mix complements the guava beautifully but you could experiment with vanilla or white cake mixes for a milder flavor that allows the guava to shine even more.

How long does it take to chill the cake before serving?

At least 2 hours in the refrigerator is recommended for the cream cheese layer and guava glaze to set perfectly, but overnight chilling intensifies flavors and firmness.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe means welcoming a slice of tropical paradise into your home with every forkful. It’s a dessert that feels special yet accessible, making it a fabulous centerpiece for family celebrations or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. Trust me, once you try it, this cake will become a favorite to share again and again!