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If you are searching for a cake that’s bursting with tropical charm and creamy delight, look no further than this Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that combines moist pineapple-infused layers with crunchy walnuts and coconut flakes, all wrapped in a luscious whipped cream cheese frosting. Every bite feels like a little getaway to the islands, making it perfect for celebrations or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this vibrant and flavorful cake. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from providing moisture and sweetness to adding texture and that unmistakable tropical twist.
- 1 cup white sugar: Gives the cake its balanced sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses depth that complements the pineapple beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise to a tender, light texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice): The star tropical ingredient, infusing moisture and vibrant flavor.
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts: Adds delightful crunch and a nutty contrast.
- 3/4 cup flaked coconut: Brings that classic island flair and texture.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warming spice to deepen the flavor profile.
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a hint for aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy notes in the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a creamy undertone.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: The rich base for our whipped cream cheese frosting, providing tangy creaminess.
- 1 cup white sugar (for frosting): Sweetens the frosting delicately to balance the cream cheese.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (for frosting): A tiny pinch to bring focus to the frosting’s flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds warmth and depth to the whipped frosting.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks to make the frosting light and airy.
How to Make Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by warming your kitchen to the perfect baking temperature of 350°F (175°C). Grease either a 9-inch round pan or a 9×13-inch rectangular pan to ensure your cake won’t stick and comes out cleanly with that beautifully golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
Mixing the batter is where the magic begins. In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: white sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, blend the eggs, vanilla extract, and the juicy crushed pineapple. Slowly combine the wet ingredients with the dry, folding gently until well incorporated. Finally, stir in the finely chopped walnuts and flaky coconut to add texture and bursts of tropical flavor with every bite.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour your rich, island-inspired batter into your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake it patiently for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that your cake is perfectly cooked and wonderfully moist. Allow it to cool fully on a wire rack because a warm cake and frosting just don’t mix well.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, whip up that heavenly frosting. Begin by beating heavy cream in a small bowl until it forms stiff peaks. In a larger bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and luscious. Now gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and fluffy frosting that’s the perfect finishing touch to your tropical cake.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once your cake is cool, spread the whipped cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. Add a little flair by garnishing with toasted coconut flakes, extra chopped walnuts, or even a few pineapple slices. This step is where your Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe really comes to life visually and taste-wise — it’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
How to Serve Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your cake’s presentation and flavor, don’t hesitate to sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or finely chopped walnuts on top. Fresh pineapple rings or maraschino cherries can also make a cheerful, colorful garnish that will make your guests smile before the first bite. These little touches add texture and visual appeal, making the cake feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair this vibrant dessert with tropical-inspired sides like a fresh fruit salad featuring mango, papaya, and kiwi, or serve alongside a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream. These complements keep the tropical theme flowing and bring a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake and frosting.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your friends by serving slices on pretty plates with a drizzle of passionfruit coulis or a sprinkle of toasted macadamia nuts. If you’re feeling festive, try stacking mini versions as individual wedding cakes or cupcakes with the same whipped cream cheese frosting for a party-ready presentation that’s sure to wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Store leftovers covered, and your cake will stay moist and flavorful for 3 to 4 days. Always use a clean spatula when serving to keep it fresh!
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance or save some for later celebrations, freezing works great. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Frozen properly, it will hold its quality for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before frosting or serving.
Reheating
Since this is a frosted cake with delicate whipped frosting, avoid microwaving or heating the whole cake. Instead, let refrigerated or frozen slices come to room temperature naturally before enjoying. This keeps the texture of both the cake and frosting intact, letting you savor every bite just as intended.
FAQs
Can I substitute the walnuts with a different nut?
Absolutely! Pecans or macadamia nuts are excellent alternatives that also blend wonderfully with the tropical flavors in this cake. Just make sure to chop them finely to keep the texture consistent.
Is it necessary to use crushed pineapple with juice?
Yes, the juice adds essential moisture to the cake, helping it stay tender and infused with pineapple flavor. If you only have drained pineapple, consider adding a bit of pineapple juice or water to compensate.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to give similar texture, and bake as usual—just keep an eye on the baking time depending on your flour blend.
How long does the whipped cream cheese frosting last?
The whipped cream cheese frosting is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days when stored properly in the fridge. Beyond that, it might begin to lose its fluffiness and freshness, so it’s best served promptly.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
While eggs contribute to the structure and richness of the cake, you can use egg substitutes like flax eggs or commercial vegan egg replacers. However, the texture might be slightly different—still delicious but a bit denser.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a perfect way to bring a little sunshine and celebration into your kitchen. The blend of moist pineapple, crunchy nuts, coconut, and that dreamy whipped frosting creates an irresistible indulgence that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Give it a try and share this slice of tropical bliss with your loved ones—the smiles and compliments will follow right behind!
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Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hawaiian Wedding Cake features a moist cake infused with crushed pineapple, walnuts, and coconut, topped with a luscious whipped cream cheese frosting. A perfect tropical dessert that combines tender crumb with rich, creamy frosting, making it ideal for celebrations or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 3/4 cup flaked coconut
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round pan or a 9×13-inch rectangular pan to prepare for baking the cake.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients which include white sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple (with juice). Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture until evenly blended. Fold in the chopped walnuts and flaked coconut carefully for even distribution.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased pan and place in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once done, remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it is light and fluffy. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, airy frosting.
- Assemble the Cake: After the cake has completely cooled, spread the whipped cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with toasted coconut, additional chopped walnuts, or pineapple slices to enhance the appearance and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
- Toasting the coconut before adding it to the cake or as garnish can bring out a deeper flavor.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds.
- This cake can be stored refrigerated, covered, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
