How to Make a Hawaiian Wedding Cake: A Slice of Paradise

The Hawaiian wedding cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of love, celebration, and the Aloha spirit. Imagine a moist, fluffy cake infused with tropical flavors like pineapple and coconut, adorned with exotic fruits and vibrant flowers. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds, transporting you straight to the shores of Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or simply want to bring a touch of the islands to your special day, learning how to make a Hawaiian wedding cake is an adventure worth embarking on.

Ingredients for a Taste of the Tropics

For the Cake:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup (40g) sweetened shredded coconut

For the Frosting:

• 2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cups (750g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup (40g) sweetened shredded coconut, toasted (for garnish)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh pineapple wedges
• Maraschino cherries
• Edible flowers

Tools of the Trade

• 3 (9-inch) round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Spatulas
• Serrated knife
• Piping bag and tips (optional)

Hawaiian Wedding Cake Ingredients

Baking Your Slice of Paradise: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and pineapple juice.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in Coconut: Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
8. Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting Your Island Masterpiece

1. Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated.
3. Add Heavy Cream and Vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops with a serrated knife if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and frost the top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
5. Decorate: Frost the sides of the cake and decorate as desired. Get creative with fresh pineapple wedges, maraschino cherries, toasted coconut flakes, and edible flowers.

Decorating Hawaiian Wedding Cake

Tips for a Taste of Paradise

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them incorporate evenly, resulting in a better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Pineapple Juice: Using fresh pineapple juice enhances the tropical flavor of the cake.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! While the traditional Hawaiian wedding cake features a buttercream frosting, you can use your favorite frosting recipe. Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting would also pair well with the pineapple and coconut flavors.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cakes a day or two in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. You can also freeze the unfrosted cakes for up to 2 months.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

A Sweet Conclusion

Baking a Hawaiian wedding cake is a labor of love, but the end result is a stunning and delicious centerpiece that will wow your guests. Don’t be afraid to experiment with decorations and make it your own. After all, the best part of baking is adding your personal touch. Now, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the sweet aroma of the islands fill your kitchen as you create your own piece of paradise.

Don’t forget to share your baking journey with us! Leave a comment below and let us know how your Hawaiian wedding cake turned out.