Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 1 1/2 cups
- Large eggs: 4
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Guava nectar, chilled: 2 1/2 cups (divided)
- Heavy whipping cream: 2 cups
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup
- Unflavored agar-agar: 1 packet (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Whisk together the flour and sugar. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, oil, and 1/2 cup of the guava nectar, then mix wet ingredients into the dry until just combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 2: Prepare the guava glaze while the cake bakes. Pour 1/2 cup of the guava nectar into a small saucepan and sprinkle the agar-agar over it to bloom for 5 minutes. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until the agar-agar is completely dissolved (do not boil). Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 1/2 cups of chilled guava nectar. Set aside.
- Step 3: Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cake. Slowly pour the liquid guava glaze mixture over the warm cake, allowing the nectar to soak deep into the layers. Transfer the cake to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the glaze to set completely.
- Step 4: Prepare the frosting by beating the heavy whipping cream in a large bowl using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Step 5: Once the guava layer is fully set and firm, spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the top of the chilled cake. Return the cake to the refrigerator for at least one hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Keep this highly perishable cake covered loosely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains chilled below 40°F due to the dairy-based frosting.
- Never reheat this chilled cake; for maximum flavor and a softer texture, pull slices from the fridge 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
- Enhance the tropical experience by garnishing individual slices with toasted coconut flakes or pairing with a scoop of passion fruit sorbet.
- To achieve the signature deep soak, ensure the cake is still significantly warm (around 15 minutes rest time is perfect) when you slowly pour the guava glaze over the poked holes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American