Hawaiian Guava Cake is a beloved island dessert known for its soft texture, fruity sweetness, and creamy layers. This cake combines a light sponge base infused with guava flavor, a smooth cream cheese frosting, and a glossy guava glaze on top. It is a staple at Hawaiian celebrations, family gatherings, and potlucks, loved for its refreshing tropical taste and beautiful pink color.
What makes Hawaiian Guava Cake special is its balance. The cake is not overly sweet, the cream layer adds richness without heaviness, and the guava glaze provides a bright, fruity finish that ties everything together.
What Is Guava Cake?
Guava cake is a Hawaiian-style sheet cake that uses guava juice or nectar to bring a naturally sweet and slightly tangy tropical flavor. Unlike traditional frosted cakes, this dessert is layered:
- A soft guava-infused cake base
- A light cream cheese topping
- A smooth guava gel glaze
The result is a cake that is moist, refreshing, and perfect when served chilled.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 1 cup guava juice or guava nectar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container whipped topping, thawed
For the Guava Glaze
- 1 cup guava juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, guava juice, eggs, and coconut oil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake according to the cake mix instructions, usually 30–35 minutes.
Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
Refrigerate the mixture until ready to use.
Step 3: Prepare the Guava Glaze
In a saucepan, combine guava juice and sugar and bring to a gentle boil.
In a separate bowl, mix water and cornstarch until smooth.
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling guava juice, stirring constantly.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese layer evenly over the surface.
Carefully pour the guava glaze on top, spreading gently to cover the cream layer without mixing the layers.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Serving Tips
- Serve the cake chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Cut into squares using a clean knife for neat layers.
- This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Why This Cake Is So Popular
Hawaiian Guava Cake is loved because it is:
- Light yet creamy
- Sweet but refreshing
- Easy to prepare
- Perfect for warm weather and special occasions
The tropical guava flavor makes it stand out from traditional cakes and gives it a unique island charm.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Guava Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of the islands. With its soft cake base, creamy middle layer, and vibrant guava topping, it’s a beautiful and delicious treat that’s perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re new to tropical desserts or already a fan, this cake is sure to become a favorite.