There’s something incredibly special about combining the tangy sweetness of guava with the rich, comforting flavors of a buttery coffee cake. This Guava Coffee Cake is an absolute treat, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an indulgent snack with your favorite cup of coffee. It’s layered with creamy frosting, sweet guava paste, and a crumbly streusel topping that gives each bite the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Tart
Guava paste adds a tropical twist to this classic coffee cake, infusing it with fruity brightness. The tender layers of cake are moist and buttery, providing the perfect base for the creamy filling and crumbly topping. This isn’t just any coffee cake – it’s a decadent dessert that feels like a hug from the tropics!
Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving something sweet, this Guava Coffee Cake will make every moment special. Let’s dive into what makes this cake irresistible!
Ingredients for Guava Coffee Cake
Every layer of this cake is packed with flavor, from the tender cake base to the sweet guava filling and creamy frosting. Here’s everything you’ll need:
The Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of this cake, providing structure and softness.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- Unsalted Butter – Creamed into the batter for a rich, buttery flavor.
- Eggs – Provide moisture and help bind the ingredients together.
- Whole Milk – Keeps the cake soft and tender.
- Baking Powder – Ensures a light and fluffy cake.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness.
The Guava Filling:
- Guava Paste – The star of the show, adding tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cake.
- Water (optional) – To slightly thin the guava paste if needed for spreading.
The Creamy Frosting:
- Cream Cheese – Provides a tangy, creamy base for the frosting.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness and a light, fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Complements the cream cheese with a hint of flavor.
The Crumb Topping:
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramel-like depth.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the streusel for a crumbly texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Melts into the topping, creating golden-brown perfection.
- Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice to the streusel.
This mix of ingredients comes together to create layers of rich, fruity, and creamy deliciousness!
How to Make Guava Coffee Cake
Though it looks indulgent, making this Guava Coffee Cake is simpler than you’d think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful cake to share (or savor all by yourself!).
Step 1: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Slowly mix in the flour, baking powder, and milk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
Step 2: Prepare the Guava Filling
Slice the guava paste into thin layers. If it’s too thick to spread easily, warm it slightly with a touch of water to make it easier to handle.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Pour half the batter into a prepared baking pan. Layer the guava paste over the batter, spreading it evenly. Pour the remaining batter on top, gently smoothing it out.
Step 4: Add the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly, then sprinkle the mixture generously over the top of the cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cooled, prepare the frosting by whipping together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla until fluffy. Spread it evenly over the top of the cake.
With these steps, you’ll have a cake that’s both gorgeous and mouthwateringly delicious!
Baking and Storage Tips for Guava Coffee Cake
Perfecting this Guava Coffee Cake means keeping an eye on baking times and storing it properly to enjoy every last bite. Let’s break it down:
How Long to Bake Guava Coffee Cake
The baking time will depend on the size and thickness of your cake. Use these guidelines to ensure a perfectly baked dessert:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If you’re baking in a smaller pan or using multiple layers, adjust the time slightly and check for doneness earlier.
How to Store Leftovers
Guava Coffee Cake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- At Room Temperature: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and store for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: Slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Let the cake rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven to let the layers set. This also enhances the flavors, especially with the guava filling. For the ultimate treat, serve slices slightly warmed with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for a Perfect Cake Every Time
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting a warm cake will cause the creamy frosting to melt and slide off. Patience pays off!
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Guava paste is naturally sweet, so you can reduce the sugar in the cake batter slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The butter, milk, and cream cheese should be fresh for the best flavor and texture.
A Final Touch of Indulgence
Sprinkle extra cinnamon or powdered sugar over the frosted cake for a bakery-worthy finish. Every slice of this cake is a decadent bite of tropical paradise!
PrintGuava Coffee Cake
- Total Time: 40 minute
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Sweet, creamy, and loaded with tropical flavor, this Guava Coffee Cake is an irresistible dessert that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. With tender layers of cake, tangy guava filling, and a buttery crumb topping, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Guava Filling:
- 1 cup guava paste, sliced thin
- 1–2 tbsp water (optional, to thin paste)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Make the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, alternating with the milk, until the batter is smooth.
- Prepare the Guava Filling:
- Slice the guava paste into thin strips. If needed, warm it with 1-2 tablespoons of water to make it easier to spread.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour half the cake batter into the prepared pan. Layer the guava paste evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining cake batter and smooth the surface.
- Make the Crumb Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle the mixture generously over the top of the batter.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, and whip until fluffy. Spread evenly over the cooled cake.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve the cake as is, or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- The guava filling can be replaced with another fruit paste if desired, such as apricot or mango.
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the crumb topping before baking.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes