Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe

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If you’ve been dreaming of a cake that effortlessly transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite, then the Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful dessert combines a moist yellow cake enriched with shredded coconut and crushed pineapple, giving it that luscious island flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Topped with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with macadamia nuts or extra coconut for that added crunch, this cake is truly a celebration of sweetness, texture, and aloha spirit all in one slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Hawaiian Wedding Cake doesn’t require a long list of exotic ingredients. Each component here plays a starring role in crafting that balance of moistness, sweetness, and tropical flair that makes this cake so memorable.

• Yellow cake mix: The base of the cake, providing a tender crumb and buttery flavor that supports the tropical additions.
• Unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds authentic island texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the pineapple perfectly.
• Crushed pineapple (drained): Brings moisture and tangy sweetness that infuses the cake with tropical brightness.
• Chopped macadamia nuts (optional): Offers a crunchy, buttery contrast that enhances the cake’s texture beautifully.
• Vegetable oil: Helps keep the cake moist, tender, and soft without overpowering the flavors.
• Eggs: Essential for structure and richness in the cake batter.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and deepens the cake’s flavor profile.
• Cream cheese (softened): The star of the frosting, lending a tangy creaminess that pairs perfectly with the tropical cake.
• Unsalted butter (softened): For richness and a smooth frosting texture.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps create a fluffy, light frosting.
• Milk: Adjusts the frosting consistency to be luscious and spreadable without being runny.

How to Make Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This simple step ensures your cake releases easily and keeps its perfect shape for layering.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, unsweetened shredded coconut, drained crushed pineapple, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything until just combined to keep the texture light and moist—overmixing can toughen the cake, so gentle folding is key.

Step 3: Incorporate the Macadamia Nuts

If you’re using macadamia nuts, fold them into the batter now. The nuts add a delicious crunch and buttery flavor that complements the tropical notes wonderfully.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans, then slide them into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step ensures your cake is perfectly cooked and wonderfully moist.

Step 5: Cool Completely

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling completely before frosting is essential to prevent melting and maintain that luscious frosting texture you’re after.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fluffy and light. Stir in vanilla extract, and add milk little by little until you reach a spreadable, dreamy frosting consistency.

Step 7: Assemble Your Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe

Place one cake layer on your serving platter and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Gently place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out for a perfectly polished finish.

Step 8: Garnish and Delight

Finish your stunning cake with a sprinkle of additional shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts. This final touch not only adds visual appeal but also layers in even more texture and tropical flavor.

How to Serve Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly toasted coconut flakes or a handful of macadamia nuts on top make exquisite garnishes that highlight the tropical vibes of the Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe. For an extra pop, a few edible flowers or a drizzle of pineapple glaze can elevate its presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light, fresh accompaniments like a tropical fruit salad featuring mango, papaya, and berries, or even a simple scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The contrast between the creamy cake and refreshing fruit will keep your palate singing.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Try this cake as mini cupcakes layered and frosted with the same cream cheese frosting, perfect for parties. Or cut the cake into squares and serve it with a pineapple sorbet or a cup of Hawaiian coffee for a cozy dessert experience that feels like a luau at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe keeps beautifully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping the cake chilled preserves the fresh flavors and ensures the frosting stays perfectly creamy and delicious.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, it freezes well. Wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and assembling for optimal texture and taste.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, you can let a slice sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the frosting too much and alter the texture detrimentally.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?

Absolutely! Just be sure to drain the fresh pineapple very well to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter, which can affect the cake’s texture.

Is it necessary to add macadamia nuts?

Nope! The macadamia nuts are optional but highly recommended for their delightful crunch and authentic Hawaiian flavor. You can leave them out if you have nut allergies or prefer a smoother cake texture.

Can I make the cake gluten-free?

Using a gluten-free yellow cake mix will work just fine. Just make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free to keep the Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long does this cake need to cool before frosting?

Cooling the cake layers completely, preferably for at least an hour at room temperature, is key. Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and become runny, so patience pays off!

Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with another type?

You can, but the cream cheese frosting is what gives this cake its signature tangy richness. If you prefer, a whipped coconut cream frosting can be a delicious dairy-free alternative that echoes tropical flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Hawaiian Wedding Cake Recipe that makes it an absolute joy to bake and even more delightful to eat. Its moist, coconut-pineapple cake base paired with luscious cream cheese frosting makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply want to brighten your day with a slice of sunshine, this cake is a recipe worth keeping close to your heart and kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try, and let the flavors whisk you away to a tropical dream.

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