Imagine a cake that captures the essence of a Hawaiian paradise in every bite. Hawaiian wedding cake does just that, blending the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut with a moist, fluffy texture that makes it irresistible. This delightful dessert isn’t just for weddings; it’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something truly special.
Originating from the beautiful islands of Hawaii, this cake brings a taste of the tropics to your table. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate life’s sweetest moments with a slice of island magic. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a birthday, or just a cozy get-together, this Hawaiian wedding cake recipe will transport you and your guests straight to a sun-soaked beach.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Hawaiian wedding cake, you’ll need a well-curated list of ingredients. Each component contributes to the cake’s tropical charm and delectable flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 20-ounce can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained well
- 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted until golden brown
- 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Hawaiian wedding cake, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your cake has the right balance of flavors and texture.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a few sizes. A large bowl for the batter, a medium one for the frosting, and a small one for prepped ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will do wonders in achieving the perfect batter consistency and creamy frosting.
- Spatula and Wooden Spoon: Essential tools for folding ingredients and scraping down the sides of mixing bowls.
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This size ensures an even, well-cooked cake. Make sure it is nonstick or prepared with parchment paper and a light grease.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Offset Spatula: Perfect for spreading the cream cheese frosting smoothly across the cake.
- Zester or Grater: Useful if you decide to include fresh coconut zest as part of an optional topping.
- Toothpicks or Cake Tester: Essential for checking the doneness of your cake.
- Serving Platter or Cake Board: For presenting your beautifully crafted Hawaiian wedding cake.
With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to bake and frost your Hawaiian wedding cake with ease and precision, capturing the tropical essence in every bite.
Preparation
Here’s how to create the perfect Hawaiian wedding cake step by step. Follow these clear instructions to ensure a flawless, delicious result.
Prep the Ingredients
- Pineapple: Drain 20 ounces of crushed pineapple, reserving the juice. You’ll need the juice for both the cake batter and the frosting.
- Coconut: Measure out 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut.
- Macadamia Nuts: Coarsely chop 1/2 cup of toasted macadamia nuts if you’re using them as a topping.
- All-Purpose Flour: Sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour into a bowl to ensure there are no lumps.
- Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Measure out 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Combine them with the flour.
- Sugar: Measure 2 cups of granulated sugar.
- Eggs: Lightly beat 3 large eggs.
- Vanilla Extract: Measure 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
- Butter: Soften 1 cup of unsalted butter.
- Temperature Setting: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the cake bakes evenly and achieves a golden-brown finish.
- Prepare Cake Pans: Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. This step helps in easy removal of the cake from the pans post-baking.
Remember, precise preparation of your ingredients and equipment sets the foundation for a successful Hawaiian wedding cake.
Directions
In this section, I will guide you through the steps to create a delightful Hawaiian wedding cake. Follow these instructions to achieve a moist and flavorful cake that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine one 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple (including the juice), one cup of granulated sugar, three large eggs, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together two cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Coconut and Nuts: Gently fold in one cup of shredded sweetened coconut and one cup of chopped macadamia nuts into the batter to ensure even distribution.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Frosting
- Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a medium mixing bowl, beat one 8-ounce block of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (both at room temperature) until smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Sugar: Mix in one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually add four cups of powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake using a spatula.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of toasted shredded coconut and 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts over the frosted cake for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the tropical flavors of your homemade Hawaiian wedding cake!
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Wedding Cake
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the most vibrant flavors, use fresh pineapple and coconut whenever possible. Fresh fruits add a natural sweetness and moisture that canned or dried versions can’t match. Peel and chop the pineapple finely, and opt for shredded fresh coconut.
Properly Drain the Pineapple
Drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess liquid that can make the cake too moist and soggy. Use a fine-mesh strainer and gentle pressing to extract the juice.
Correctly Measure Flour
Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This ensures accuracy and prevents a dense, heavy cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients blend more effortlessly, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can activate gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher texture. Fold in ingredients gently when adding the pineapple and coconut.
Use the Right Baking Pans
Use 9×13-inch baking pans for even baking. Grease and flour your pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy release.
Cool Cake Completely Before Frosting
Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the cream cheese frosting. A warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and run, leading to a messy presentation.
Enhance Frosting Flavor
Add a hint of coconut extract to the cream cheese frosting for an extra tropical touch. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Garnish Creatively
Top your cake with toasted coconut flakes, fresh pineapple slices, or edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation. These garnishes add visual appeal and complement the cake’s tropical flavors.
Keep It Chilled
Store the cake in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, especially in warmer climates. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Variations and Add-ins
One of the best aspects of the Hawaiian wedding cake is its versatility. Here are some of my favorite variations and add-ins to enrich this delightful treat:
Adding Crushed Macadamia Nuts
For an authentic Hawaiian twist, I love incorporating crushed macadamia nuts into the batter. These nuts add a satisfying crunch and a unique flavor that complements the pineapple and coconut beautifully. Add 1/2 cup of crushed macadamia nuts to your batter right after mixing in the flour.
Using Mango Puree
To infuse a more tropical flair, substitute the pineapple with mango puree. Swap an equal amount of drained crushed pineapple with fresh mango puree. This switch adds a delightful sweetness and rich flavor to the cake, making it a summer favorite.
Incorporating Rum
For an adult version of the cake, I sometimes add a splash of rum to the batter. Use 1/4 cup of dark rum along with the wet ingredients. The subtle rum flavor enhances the tropical notes and adds a depth that is both intriguing and delicious.
Playing with Frosting Flavors
While the traditional cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with the cake, experimenting with different flavors can be exciting. Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the frosting for a nutty undertone. Alternatively, mix in 1/4 cup of coconut milk instead of regular milk to deepen the coconut flavor.
Adding Tropical Fruits
To really embrace the Hawaiian theme, garnish the cake with fresh tropical fruits. Mango slices, kiwi rounds, and passion fruit seeds make for a colorful and tasty decoration. Add these atop the frosting just before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant appearance.
Layering with Pudding
For added moisture and a creamy texture, I sometimes layer the cake with vanilla or coconut pudding. Spread a layer of pudding between the cake layers before frosting the exterior. This variation is perfect for those who love a rich, moist cake.
Using Flavored Coconut Flakes
If you want to intensify the coconut flavor, use sweetened or flavored coconut flakes for the garnish. Toast them lightly for an extra crisp texture and a deeper coconut taste. Sprinkle them generously over the frosting for a beautiful, aromatic finish.
Adding a Chocolate Twist
For chocolate lovers, incorporate mini chocolate chips into the batter. Fold 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter right after mixing in the flour. The chocolate adds a delightful surprise with each bite, making the cake even more irresistible.
Storage Tips
To keep your Hawaiian wedding cake fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Refrigerating
- Wrapping Properly: Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure no part of the cake is exposed to air.
- Using Airtight Containers: Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container to further protect it from drying out.
- Temperature Control: Store the container in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. The chilled environment will maintain the frosting’s texture and keep the cake moist.
Freezing
- Initial Freezing: If you want to freeze the cake for longer storage, start by wrapping each slice—or the whole cake if you prefer—in plastic wrap.
- Double Wrapping: Follow up with a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Labeling: Label the wrapped cake with the date so you can keep track of its storage time.
- Long-term Storage: Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing
- Refrigerator Thaw: When ready to enjoy the cake, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Let it thaw overnight for even thawing.
- Room Temperature Return: Remove the cake from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before serving. This will enhance the frosting’s texture and the cake’s flavor.
- Check Freshness: Before serving, examine the cake for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual texture.
- Re-frosting as Needed: If the frosting looks less appealing after storage, you can whip up a small batch of fresh frosting and reapply a thin layer to revitalize the appearance and taste.
By following these storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Hawaiian wedding cake remains a delightful treat no matter when you decide to serve it.
Conclusion
Crafting a Hawaiian wedding cake is a delightful journey that brings the flavors of the tropics to your kitchen. With its pineapple-coconut essence and versatile enhancements, this cake is perfect for any celebration. By following the detailed recipe and tips, you can ensure a moist and flavorful cake every time.
Remember to store it properly to maintain its freshness and quality. Whether you’re making it for a wedding or just a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
