If you have a soft spot for cakes that marry tropical flavors with a rich, velvety frosting, you’re going to absolutely adore this Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It is a delightful blend of moist pineapple-infused cake studded with crunchy walnuts and coconut, all crowned with the most luscious whipped cream cheese frosting. This recipe brings a little piece of paradise right into your kitchen and is perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or just when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a ton of flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, sweetness, or that perfect tropical crunch.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the pineapple’s natural tang.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel depth to balance the tropical notes.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the cake for a light, tender crumb.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that holds the cake together.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice): Brings incredible moisture and authentic Hawaiian flavor.
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts: Offer a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast.
- 3/4 cup flaked coconut: Delivers a sweet chewiness that enhances the tropical vibe.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and complexity.
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a hint to elevate the spice profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a comforting aroma and depth.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the frosting, lending richness.
- 1 cup white sugar (for frosting): Sweetens the frosting without glossing over the cream cheese tang.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (for frosting): A pinch helps the frosting’s flavors shine.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Provides a smooth, fragrant finish.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to perfection to create the airy frosting texture.
How to Make Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease your choice of baking pan—either a 9-inch round or a 9×13-inch rectangular pan works perfectly. This prep ensures your cake doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—white sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple along with its juice. The juice is key here because it infuses the cake with vibrant moisture and flavor. Gradually incorporate the wet mix into the dry ingredients, folding carefully so the batter stays light. Finally, gently fold in the walnuts and coconut for that perfect texture balance.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Pour your beautifully combined batter into the prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. This period transforms your batter into a moist, spiced tropical delight. Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire rack and let it cool completely so the frosting will glide on smoothly.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting
While your cake cools, start whipping up the frosting that makes this Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly unforgettable. First, whip your heavy cream to stiff peaks in a small bowl—that fluffy texture is essential. In a larger bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Then, fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture, creating a stunningly light and creamy frosting that perfectly complements the cake’s richness.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Spread the luscious whipped cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Here’s where you can add your own personal flair—toast some extra coconut flakes or sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top for a gorgeous, textured finish. Pineapple slices also make a beautiful and tasty garnish that nods to the cake’s tropical roots.
How to Serve Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing your Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, keep it fresh and tropical. Toasted coconut flakes add a gentle crispness, walnut pieces bring earthy crunch, and pineapple slices brighten everything with juicy sweetness. Together, these garnishes make each bite a celebration of flavors and textures.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t overshadow its complex tropical profile. Fresh fruit salads, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a tangy passionfruit sorbet can create an elegant contrast. For drinks, consider light herbal teas or sparkling wines to cleanse the palate and enhance the overall experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to bring a bit of wow factor to your table, try serving individual slices in clear dessert dishes topped with a dollop of extra frosting and a pineapple wedge. For parties, small cupcake versions of this cake with the whipped cream cheese frosting piped on can be both charming and convenient. Layering this cake into a trifle with extra pineapple chunks and coconut flakes also makes an eye-catching presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe should be stored covered in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and prevent the cake from drying out. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect to prepare in advance for a gathering or to enjoy over several days.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake, but it’s best to do so before frosting it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then frost just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, especially because of the whipped cream cheese frosting. If you prefer your cake a bit warmer, remove the frosting and gently warm each slice in the microwave for a few seconds, then reapply the frosting. This keeps the frosting fresh and fluffy without melting it completely.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crushed pineapple will give your cake an even more vibrant flavor. Just be sure to include some of the juice for moisture, and drain slightly if your pineapple is very watery to keep the batter balanced.
What can I substitute for walnuts if I have allergies?
Consider using chopped macadamia nuts for a more Hawaiian feel, or omit nuts entirely and add extra coconut flakes or crushed pineapple pieces to maintain texture without compromising flavor.
Is this cake gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
How long does the frosting keep its texture?
Because the frosting uses whipped heavy cream, it stays light and fluffy for a day or two when refrigerated. After that, it may start to separate or weep, so it’s best to enjoy the cake within 2 days of frosting.
Can I make this cake into cupcakes?
Definitely! Just reduce baking time to about 20-25 minutes, and use cupcake liners. The whipped cream cheese frosting works beautifully piped on top for individual servings.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Wedding Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a tropical treasure that’s both approachable and impressive. Its vibrant flavors, delightful texture, and buttery smooth frosting will quickly turn it into a family favorite and a go-to dessert for any joyful occasion. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will become a recipe you love to share again and again.
