Description
This Hawaiian Guava Cake is a tropical delight that combines a strawberry cake base with luscious guava-flavored layers and a creamy cream cheese topping. Easy to make and bursting with exotic fruit flavors, this cake is perfect for special occasions or a refreshing dessert any time.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 strawberry cake mix
- 1 1/3 cups guava nectar (or guava juice)
- 3 eggs
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (room temperature, liquid)
Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed)
Guava Glaze
- 2 cups guava nectar (or guava juice)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, 1 1/3 cups of guava nectar, eggs, and coconut oil. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch glass baking dish. Bake according to the time and temperature instructions provided on the cake mix package, typically around 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove and allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Topping: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until fluffy. Add 1/3 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip to create a light, creamy topping. Refrigerate until the cake is cool and ready for assembly.
- Prepare the Guava Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of guava nectar and 1/2 cup sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Meanwhile, make a slurry by mixing 1/4 cup cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water. Once the guava mixture boils, remove from heat and slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. Return the pan to heat and bring the mixture back to a boil, cooking for one minute until thickened. Remove from heat and allow the glaze to cool in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the surface of the cake using a spatula for a smooth finish.
- Add the Guava Glaze: Pour or spread the cooled guava glaze over the cream cheese layer, creating a beautiful glossy finish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the finished cake until ready to serve to allow all layers to set and flavors to meld. Slice into 12 pieces and enjoy the tropical flavors of this delightful dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute guava nectar with guava juice if preferred, but ensure it is 100% juice for best flavor.
- Cool Whip can be replaced with homemade whipped cream for a fresher topping.
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding the cream cheese topping to prevent melting and separation.
- For an extra tropical touch, garnish the cake with fresh pineapple slices or toasted coconut flakes.
- If you want a firmer glaze, you can chill it longer or add a bit more cornstarch to the slurry.
