If you are looking for a dessert that captures the vibrant tropical essence of the islands, the Authentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer is truly a must-try. This delightful creation combines the sweet tang of guava nectar with a moist strawberry cake base, all layered with a luscious cream cheese blend and topped with a glossy guava glaze. It’s a harmonious dance of flavors and textures that brings a slice of Hawaii right to your table, guaranteed to impress friends and family with its exotic charm and comforting sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the careful selection of ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Every component, from the strawberry cake mix to the guava nectar and the creamy cheese layer, works together to create that signature Hawaiian taste that feels both familiar and wonderfully tropical.
- Strawberry Cake Mix (15 oz): The base of our cake providing a fruity, soft crumb that shines through every bite.
- Guava Nectar or Juice (about 4 cups): Adds a fragrant tropical sweetness and moistness to the cake and glaze.
- Eggs (3): Important for structure and richness in the cake batter.
- Coconut Oil (1/3 cup): Brings a subtle tropical flavor and keeps the cake beautifully tender.
- Cream Cheese (10 oz): The star of the creamy middle layer, delivering tang and smooth texture.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup + ½ cup): Used to sweeten both the cream cheese layer and the guava gel topping.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor depth of the cream cheese filling.
- Cool Whip (8 oz, thawed): Lightens the cream cheese layer for that dreamy, fluffy consistency.
- Cornstarch (4 tbsp): Essential for thickening the guava gel topping to a perfect consistency.
- Water (3 tbsp): Helps create the cornstarch slurry for the glaze.
- Sweetened Coconut Flakes (optional, 4 tbsp): Adds a crunchy, tropical garnish that complements the guava flavors.
How to Make Authentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 13×9 inch baking dish. Mixing the strawberry cake mix with guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil creates a batter that’s bursting with tropical sweetness and moisture. Blend it thoroughly to ensure a tender crumb. Pour this vibrant batter into your pan and bake for about 24 to 26 minutes; you’ll know it’s done when the edges turn light golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack to prepare for the luscious layers ahead.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
This creamy, dreamy layer makes the Authentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer truly special. Beat the cream cheese until fluffy, then mix in sugar and vanilla for that perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Folding in the Cool Whip gently aerates the mixture, resulting in a light texture that spreads smoothly atop the cooled cake. Chill this layer in the fridge or freezer to let it set firmly before moving on to the glaze.
Step 3: Make the Guava Gel Glaze
The glaze is where the guava flavor really shines and gives the cake its iconic glossy finish. Heat guava nectar with sugar until it reaches a gentle boil. Stir together cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then whisk this into the hot guava mixture. Returning it to a boil briefly thickens the glaze to just the right consistency. Once cooled, gently spread this vibrant topping over the cream cheese layer, creating a stunning tropical crown for your cake.
Step 4: Chill and Garnish
After glazing, refrigerate the cake to allow layers to meld together and the glaze to set completely. Just before serving, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes if you like a little extra crunch and a hint of coconutty flair, enhancing the island vibe perfectly.
How to Serve Authentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, fresh coconut flakes toasted to a golden brown add a lovely crunch and slight nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the smooth glaze. A few slices of fresh strawberries or even edible flowers also make elegant garnishes, giving a pop of color that brightens each slice.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments such as a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a bowl of tropical fruit salad featuring pineapple and mango. A simple glass of chilled guava juice or coconut water also complements the tropical flavors perfectly, enhancing the overall island experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform a traditional slice into a dessert feast by serving small squares on decorative plates accompanied by a drizzle of extra guava nectar or passionfruit coulis. For a festive occasion, layer small cake cubes in clear parfait glasses, alternate with cream cheese mixture and fresh fruit, creating a striking parfait inspired by the cake’s layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Authentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to preserve its moisture and freshness, preventing the cream cheese and glaze from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this tropical treat later, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before serving to retain the smooth texture of the cream cheese layer and the delicate guava glaze.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating generally isn’t recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese layer and glaze. Serve it fresh or straight from the fridge to maintain that perfect balance between fluffy cake and creamy topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh guava instead of guava nectar for this cake?
Fresh guava has a wonderful flavor but is less concentrated and more fibrous than guava nectar. For the cake’s moistness and the glaze’s smooth texture, guava nectar or juice is preferred. You could experiment by blending fresh guava and straining it, but expect some differences in consistency.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese layer?
Yes! You can substitute regular cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and swap Cool Whip for a coconut-based whipped topping to keep that creamy richness for a dairy-free version of this cake.
Can I make this cake in a round pan instead of a 13×9 baking dish?
Absolutely! A round cake pan will work fine, though baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on your cake. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.
What if I can’t find pink guava nectar for the glaze?
While pink guava nectar gives the most vibrant color and traditional flavor, you can use white guava or other guava juice options. The flavor will still be delicious, but the glaze color may be lighter.
How do I prevent the cream cheese layer from becoming watery?
Make sure your cream cheese and Cool Whip are well chilled before mixing, and fold gently to maintain airiness. Refrigerate the cake properly so the layers set firmly, which helps prevent any weeping or separation.
Final Thoughts
The Authentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer is a joyous celebration of tropical flavors that’s surprisingly easy to make. Every forkful offers a journey to the Hawaiian islands with its fruity cake, creamy filling, and glossy guava glaze. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or savoring a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to bring a smile and a touch of aloha spirit into your kitchen. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
PrintAuthentic Hawaiian Guava Cake – Strawberry Cake Mix + Guava Glaze + Cream Cheese Layer
Hawaiian Guava Cake is a classic and delightful Hawaiian dessert featuring a moist strawberry cake infused with guava nectar, topped with a creamy whipped cream cheese layer and a vibrant guava gel glaze. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this tropical treat combines sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of coconut for an authentic island taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
For The Cake:
- 1 Strawberry Cake Mix (15 oz)
- 1 ½ cups Guava Nectar or Guava Juice (Kern’s, Jumex, or Goya)
- 3 Eggs (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup Coconut Oil (liquid)
For The Whipped Cream Cheese Layer:
- 10 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
For The Guava Gel Topping:
- 2 ½ cups Guava Nectar or Guava Juice (pink variety preferred)
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- 4 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons Water
- 4 tablespoons Sweetened Coconut Flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with vegetable spray. In a mixer, combine the strawberry cake mix, guava nectar, eggs, and liquid coconut oil. Blend on low speed for 30 seconds, scrape down the bowl, then beat on medium-high for 2 minutes until fully combined and smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 24-26 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are light golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire cooling rack and let the cake cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract and mix well. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the completely cooled cake. Refrigerate or freeze briefly until the layer sets firmly.
- Prepare the Guava Gel Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 ½ cups guava nectar and ½ cup sugar. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium heat and cook for 2 minutes. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Remove the guava mixture from heat and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Return the pan to medium heat and bring back to a low boil, boiling for about one minute until it thickens. Remove from heat and cool the gel in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the guava gel topping has cooled, gently spread it over the set cream cheese layer. Place the assembled cake back into the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 pieces and optionally garnish with sweetened coconut flakes. Enjoy with milk, guava juice, or your favorite ice cream for a true Hawaiian delight.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting or sliding.
- Using pink guava nectar for the gel topping adds an authentic color and flavor.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- The coconut flakes garnish is optional but adds extra flavor and tropical texture.