Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups
- Granulated sugar: 1 ¾ cups
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
- Large eggs: 4
- Full-fat coconut milk: 1 cup
- Guava nectar (100% juice): ½ cup
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Powdered sugar: 3 cups
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then stir in 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the full-fat coconut milk and guava nectar, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Step 3: Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 4: While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and the remaining ½ cup softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. If desired, beat in 1-2 tablespoons of additional guava nectar for extra flavor.
- Step 5: Once the cakes are completely cool, level them with a serrated knife if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting evenly over the top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and then frost the entire cake, including the sides. Optionally, garnish with lime zest or toasted coconut flakes.
Notes
- Keep your beautifully frosted Guava Cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and the perfect texture of the cream cheese frosting for up to 3-4 days.
- To truly savor its unique tropical flavors and ensure the cake is wonderfully tender, let refrigerated slices sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving.
- For an extra touch of tropical paradise, serve a slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted macadamia nuts, or a scoop of coconut sorbet to complement the guava's vibrant notes.
- For an even more vibrant and truly unique tropical flavor profile, don't hesitate to beat in that extra 1-2 tablespoons of guava nectar into your cream cheese frosting; it truly makes the guava sing!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 520
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Protein: 60g