Hawaiian Wedding Cake

Imagine a dessert that captures the tropical essence of Hawaii, bringing a taste of paradise to your table. That’s exactly what you get with this Hawaiian Wedding Cake. It’s a delightful blend of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors that will transport you straight to the islands with every bite. This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hawaiian Wedding Cake is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s simple enough for even kids to help with, allowing for a fun family baking session. The combination of crushed pineapple, coconut, and walnuts creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile. Plus, the optional cream cheese frosting elevates the cake to something truly special, adding a creamy richness that complements the fruity base perfectly.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9″ round or 9″x13″ rectangular baking pan
• Oven
• Spatula
• Toothpick

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 cup finely chopped (or crushed) walnuts
• 3/4 cup flaked coconut
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together: white sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, vanilla, and crushed pineapple with its juice to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the walnuts and coconut.
5. Pour the batter into a well-greased 9″ round or 9″x13″ rectangular baking pan.
6. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool before adding the frosting, if desired.

For Whipped Cream Cream Cheese Frosting you will need:

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

1. In a small bowl, beat the whipping cream until stiff peaks form, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Beat until the mixture is smooth.
3. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
4. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and top with toasted coconut, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother frosting.
• Use fresh walnuts and coconut for the best flavor.
• If you prefer a moister cake, add a little more pineapple juice.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. You can also add a handful of chopped dried mango for an extra tropical touch. If you like your cakes extra sweet, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a delightful treat that offers a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, thanks to the pineapple, walnuts, and coconut. While indulging your sweet tooth, you’ll also enjoy some fiber and essential nutrients from the fruit and nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just keep it covered and add the frosting before serving.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese frosting?
Yes, a simple vanilla glaze or just a dusting of powdered sugar can be used if you prefer.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to crush it and use the juice for moisture.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Wedding Cake is a delightful and easy dessert that promises to be a hit at any gathering. Its tropical flavors and creamy frosting make it a standout treat. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! We can’t wait to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoyed this little slice of paradise.