Name: Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake: A Tropical Taste of Paradise
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 1 box Strawberry Cake Mix (Substitute with vanilla if desired.); 1 cup Guava Nectar or Juice (Use 100% juice for authentic flavor.); 3 whole Eggs (Room temperature for better mixing.); ⅓ cup Coconut Oil (Room temperature; vegetable oil works as an alternative.); 2 cups Guava Juice (Use the same juice as the nectar.); ½ cup Sugar (Adjust based on your taste.); ¼ cup Cornstarch (Mix well to avoid lumps.); 3 tablespoons Water (Activates the cornstarch for the gel.); 6 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened for easier mixing.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances the flavor.); 6 ounces Cool Whip (Thawed; can substitute with whipped heavy cream.); ¼ cup Sugar (Adjust according to your preference.)

With every bite of these Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Cupcakes, I’m whisked away to the sun-soaked shores of Hawaii. The combination of a fruity strawberry sponge and rich cream cheese frosting topped with a glossy guava gel creates a symphony of tropical flavors that dances on your palate. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to option for parties or potlucks. Plus, these mini treats offer a delightful, portable dessert solution that’s sure to impress your guests! Are you ready to bring the spirit of the islands to your next gathering? Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible Hawaiian dessert!

Why Choose Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake?

Tropical Escape: Each cupcake transports you to a paradise, brimming with the vibrant flavors of Hawaii.

Quick & Easy: With just a cake mix hack, these cupcakes come together in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.

Impressive Presentation: Topped with glossy guava gel and creamy frosting, they look as good as they taste, making them a showstopper at parties.

Versatile Treat: Feel free to swap out the strawberry cake mix for lemon or pineapple for a twist, giving you endless flavor possibilities.

Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a potluck, these little delights will have your guests coming back for seconds!

Ready to indulge your taste buds? Check out my Mini Pancakes or serve these cupcakes alongside a refreshing Sky Jelly Cake for a complete tropical feast!

Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Ingredients

Get ready to create a tropical masterpiece with these essential ingredients for your Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake!

For the Cupcakes

Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides a fruity foundation; feel free to substitute with vanilla for a neutral taste.
Guava Nectar or Juice – Adds that authentic tropical sweetness; opt for 100% juice to capture true Hawaiian flavor.
Eggs (3, room temperature) – Binds the mixture together and adds richness; room temperature eggs ensure better mixing.
Coconut Oil (⅓ cup, room temperature) – Introduces moisture and a subtle coconut flavor; vegetable oil works as an alternative.

For the Guava Gel

Guava Juice (2 cups) – The star ingredient for your gel; use the same juice as the nectar for seamless flavor.
Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the gel to perfection; adjust according to your taste preference.
Cornstarch (¼ cup) – Thickens the gel and gives it a luscious texture; mix well to avoid lumps.
Water (3 tablespoons) – Activates the cornstarch for your gel preparation; add it for the perfect consistency.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese (6 ounces, softened) – Creates a rich and creamy frosting; make sure it’s adequately softened to prevent lumps.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of your frosting; a touch of pure vanilla always elevates the taste.
Cool Whip (6 ounces, thawed) – Adds lightness and fluffiness; consider substituting with whipped heavy cream for richness.
Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the frosting; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.

These ingredients will help you create the delightful Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake that captures the essence of tropical paradise in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Cupcakes

Step 1: Make Guava Gel
In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of guava juice and ½ cup of sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of cornstarch and 3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Once the juice mixture is boiling, slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture, continuing to boil until thickened (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare Cupcake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini cupcake pan with liners. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, 1 cup of guava juice, and 3 room-temperature eggs. Add ⅓ cup of coconut oil. Mix on low speed until just combined, then increase to medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well-incorporated, scraping the sides as needed. Fill each cupcake liner about one-third full.

Step 3: Bake Cupcakes
Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 19-22 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake to prevent dryness. Once done, remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat 6 ounces of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add ¼ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until smooth. Gently fold in 6 ounces of thawed Cool Whip until just combined, ensuring a light and airy texture. Refrigerate the frosting until ready to use.

Step 5: Assemble Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each one using a spatula or piping bag for a decorative touch. Place the frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow the frosting to set. When ready to serve, spoon the cooled guava gel on top of each frosted cupcake for a glossy finish.

How to Store and Freeze Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake

Fridge: Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. Avoid stacking to prevent the frosting from smudging.

Freezer: Unfrosted mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake securely in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: If frozen, thaw the cupcakes in the fridge overnight and bring them to room temperature before adding frosting. Reheat unfrosted cupcakes in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh, warm treat.

Assembling: For the best taste, frost the cupcakes just before serving to maintain the cream cheese frosting’s texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the guava gel and cream cheese frosting up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. For the cupcakes, bake them two days ahead and keep them unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their fluffiness. To finish, simply frost the cooled cupcakes and add the guava gel just before serving for that stunning glossy effect. This method ensures you enjoy delicious, tropical treats with minimal effort on the day of your gathering, making your hosting experience a breeze!

Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Variations

Invite your culinary creativity and explore delightful twists that will make these cupcakes even more special!

Flavor Swap: Substitute strawberry cake mix with pineapple for a refreshing twist. The sweet tartness of pineapple pairs beautifully with guava!
Citrus Zing: Use lemon cake mix instead of strawberry for a bright, citrus-infused flavor that will really pop on your palate.
Gel Adventure: Switch out the guava juice for passionfruit or mango juice for a fun flavor variation that adds tropical flair to every bite.
Texture Delight: For crunch, mix in shredded coconut into the batter. This adds delightful texture and enhances the tropical experience.
Dairy-Free: Opt for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative in the frosting to cater to vegan or lactose-intolerant guests. You won’t lose the creamy goodness!
Lower Sugar: For a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the gel and frosting without compromising the overall flavor. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness!
Heat Element: Elevate the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne or jalapeño powder to the batter for a surprising hint of heat that complements the sweet flavors.
Cupcake Size: Instead of mini cupcakes, use a muffin tin for standard-sized guava cakes. Just keep an eye on the baking time!

These variations offer a world of possibilities to explore! And if you’re looking for more mini inspirations, check out my lovely Zucchini Potato Mini pancakes or indulge in a slice of my Nutty Vanilla Cake for a complete treat experience.

Expert Tips for Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake

Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing your batter to ensure your mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes remain fluffy and tender.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a creamy frosting.
Accurate Baking Time: Keep a close watch on your cupcakes as they bake. Remove them when they are lightly golden to prevent dryness.
Perfect Gel Thickness: Make sure to boil your guava juice mixture adequately for the right thickness in your guava gel.
Chill for Flavor: Let the frosted cupcakes chill in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor and to help set your frosting perfectly.

What to Serve with Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Cupcakes?

Elevate your tropical dessert experience with irresistible sides and drinks that enhance the flavors of these delightful mini cupcakes.

Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of diced mango, pineapple, and kiwi complements the sweetness of the cupcakes while adding a burst of freshness.
Mango-Pineapple Margarita: This zesty cocktail pairs beautifully with the tropical notes from your cupcakes, creating a festive drink that sparks joy at any gathering.
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut-infused rice brings a delightful creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the cupcakes and adds a delightful touch of tropical flair.
Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy with a hint of sweetness, this side dish contrasts perfectly with the soft texture of the cupcakes, making for a well-rounded meal.
Chilled Green Tea: A smooth and refreshing drink, iced green tea cleanses the palate and enhances the tropical experience of the cupcakes.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For a fun dessert duo, serve a classic pineapple upside-down cake for added tropical sweetness and nostalgia that your guests will adore.
Mini Hawaiian Sliders: A savory option, these sliders filled with pulled pork and sweet Hawaiian rolls create a savory counterpart to your sweet cupcakes, perfect for gatherings.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, a dollop of coconut whipped cream adds extra richness, enhancing the tropical experience of the cupcakes in every bite.
Sunny Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade with a hint of lime brings a vibrant citrus punch, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes.

Mini Hawaiian Guava Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of guava juice should I use?
Opt for 100% pure guava juice or nectar to capture the authentic tropical flavor. This not only enhances the taste of your mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes, but it also ensures a rich and sweet gel.

How should I store my mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes?
To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking them to prevent smudging of the cream cheese frosting. If you know you’ll have leftovers, it’s best to frost the cupcakes just before serving for optimal texture!

Can I freeze these cupcakes for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze unadorned mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting them.

What should I do if my guava gel isn’t thickening properly?
If your guava gel isn’t thickening, ensure that you properly mix the cornstarch with water until smooth before slowly adding it to the boiling juice. Remember to let the mixture boil for about 1-2 minutes after adding the cornstarch. If needed, you can always add a small extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken further.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, if you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free cake mix as a substitute for the strawberry cake mix. Just make sure to check that all other ingredients, such as the guava juice and cream cheese, are also gluten-free to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

Is this recipe safe for pets?
While ingredients like guava and strawberries can be safe for pets in small amounts, the sugar and cream cheese in the frosting can be unhealthy for them. It’s best to keep these delightful mini Hawaiian guava cake cupcakes for yourself and your guests!