Hawaiian Guava Cake: A Tropical Delight

Growing up in Hawaii, the sweet aroma of fresh guava wafting through the air was a familiar scent that instantly transported me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. Her Hawaiian Guava Cake was the stuff of legends – a moist, golden crumb infused with the tangy-sweet essence of this beloved island fruit. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each bite evoking cherished memories of family gatherings and island-inspired indulgence.

As an adult, I’ve found myself craving that nostalgic flavor time and time again. That’s why I’m excited to share with you the secret to baking the perfect Hawaiian Guava Cake. This recipe is not only a delicious tribute to the islands, but it’s also surprisingly simple to master. Get ready to be the hit of any gathering, whether it’s a backyard luau or a cozy family dessert.

Why This Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Hawaiian Guava Cake

There’s something truly special about the combination of sweet, tangy guava and the rich, buttery crumb of this cake. The secret lies in the attention to detail – from the perfectly balanced ratio of ingredients to the technique that ensures a moist, tender texture. By using a generous amount of melted butter and incorporating just the right amount of guava puree, this recipe delivers a flavor profile that’s truly out of this world.

But it’s not just about the taste; the visual appeal of this cake is equally captivating. The vibrant pink hue of the guava puree gives the cake a stunning, tropical-inspired look, while the golden-brown top and fluffy interior create a delightful contrast. This is a dessert that’s sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of this cake, the flour provides structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: The perfect balance of sweetness to complement the tangy guava.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and achieve a light, airy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 3 large eggs: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Contributes to the moist, buttery taste and soft, velvety texture.
• 1 cup guava puree: The star of the show, this vibrant fruit puree infuses the cake with its iconic tropical flavor.

Step-by-Step Hawaiian Guava Cake Instructions

Preparing Your Hawaiian Guava Cake

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes, this Hawaiian Guava Cake comes together in a total of 50 minutes. All you’ll need are a mixing bowl, a whisk, a spatula, and a 9-inch round baking pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease the pan to ensure your cake releases easily.

1- Start by combining the dry ingredients: in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well incorporated.
2- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re light and frothy. Then, slowly pour in the melted butter, whisking constantly to create a smooth, emulsified mixture.
3- Gently fold the egg-butter mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. This will help maintain the cake’s tender crumb.
4- Finally, fold in the 1 cup of guava puree until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. The batter should have a vibrant pink hue and a silky, pourable consistency.
5- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6- Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Success

• For an extra-moist cake, replace 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with cornstarch.
• Don’t overmix the batter – this can result in a tough, dense texture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
• Use fresh, ripe guava for the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh, high-quality canned or frozen guava puree works well too.
• Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving to ensure a clean, even cut.
• Consider dusting the top with powdered sugar or serving with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Serving and Storing Your Hawaiian Guava Cake

Perfect Pairings for Hawaiian Guava Cake

This Hawaiian Guava Cake, which yields 8 servings, is the perfect ending to any island-inspired feast. Serve it alongside a refreshing tropical cocktail, such as a Mai Tai or Piña Colada, for a truly immersive experience. For a more casual gathering, it also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a steaming cup of Kona coffee.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To store your Hawaiian Guava Cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer-term storage, you can wrap the cake in a double layer of plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before bringing it to room temperature. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to refresh the texture and flavors.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Hawaiian Guava Cake

Creative Hawaiian Guava Cake Variations

While the classic Hawaiian Guava Cake is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this tropical treat. Try adding a handful of toasted macadamia nuts for a crunchy contrast, or swirl in a ribbon of cream cheese frosting for an extra-rich indulgence. For a seasonal twist, you could incorporate fresh mango or pineapple puree in place of the guava. The possibilities are endless!

Making Hawaiian Guava Cake Diet-Friendly

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use a plant-based butter alternative and replace the eggs with a commercial egg replacer or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). If you’re watching your carbs, you can reduce the sugar to 1 cup and use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute canned guava puree for fresh?
A: Absolutely! Canned or frozen guava puree works great in this recipe. Just be sure to use a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

Q: How long does it take to bake the Hawaiian Guava Cake?
A: The total baking time for this recipe is 35 minutes. Be sure to preheat your oven to 350°F and use a 9-inch round baking pan for the best results.

Q: Can I make the Hawaiian Guava Cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake keeps well. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer-term storage, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: How many servings does this Hawaiian Guava Cake recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 8 generous servings of Hawaiian Guava Cake. Feel free to adjust the serving size to suit your needs.

Q: What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
A: If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and check the expiration date on your baking powder.

Print

Conclusion

Hawaiian Guava Cake is a true taste of paradise, and this recipe is the perfect way to bring that tropical indulgence into your own home. With its moist, flavorful crumb and vibrant, island-inspired appearance, this cake is sure to be the star of any occasion. Whether you’re reminiscing about your time in Hawaii or simply craving a sweet, tangy treat, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Let me know in the comments how it turns out – I can’t wait to hear about your own Hawaiian Guava Cake adventures!