1-First Step: Prep the pan and oven Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat a 13×9 baking dish with cooking spray so the cake releases easily later. Set out the cream cheese and eggs early if you have not already, since room temperature ingredients mix better and help the batter stay smooth.

2-Second Step: Mix the cake batter In a large bowl, combine the 1 box strawberry cake mix, 1.5 cups guava nectar or juice, 3 room temperature eggs, and 0.33 cup liquid coconut oil. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then turn the mixer up to medium-high and beat for 2 minutes. The batter should look smooth and a little airy. If you want a brighter color, now is the time to add a few drops of pink food coloring. This small change gives the Best Decadent Hawaiian Guava Cake an even more cheerful look.

3-Third Step: Bake the cake Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 24 to 26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Ovens can vary a bit, so start checking near the 24-minute mark. When the cake is done, place the pan on a cooling rack and let it cool completely. This step matters because the cream cheese layer will slide if the cake is still warm.

4-Fourth Step: Make the whipped cream cheese layer In a clean bowl, beat the 10 ounces room temperature cream cheese until fluffy. Add 0.5 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then mix until smooth. Fold in the 8 ounces thawed whipped topping gently so the mixture stays light and fluffy. Spread this creamy layer evenly over the cooled cake. Use a spatula to push it all the way to the edges. After that, refrigerate the cake until the layer sets.

5-Fifth Step: Cook the guava glaze In a saucepan, combine 2.5 cups guava nectar or juice with 0.5 cup granulated sugar. Bring it to a boil and cook for 2 minutes. In a small cup, stir together 4 tablespoons cornstarch and 3 tablespoons water to make a smooth slurry. Add the slurry to the boiling guava mixture and cook for 1 minute more, stirring often. The topping should thicken into a shiny gel. Remove it from the heat and let it cool a bit before spreading.

6-Final Step: Finish, chill, and serve Spread the cooled guava gel carefully over the cream cheese layer. Return the cake to the refrigerator before serving so the topping can set fully. If you like, finish with 4 tablespoons sweetened coconut flakes for garnish. For the best taste and texture, chill the cake overnight. That gives the layers time to settle and lets the guava flavor come through even more.