Hawaiian Chantilly Cake Recipe – Whisk Guide

Hawaiian Chantilly Cake is a delightful dessert bursting with flavor. To elevate your experience, consider pairing it with a tropical fruit salad. Juicy mangoes, pineapples, and strawberries respectively complement the rich texture of the cake.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream also works wonders. The creaminess of the ice cream balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly. Lastly, a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing cup of coconut water would make for a harmonious drink choice. Both beverages enhance the cake’s flavors while providing a refreshing counterpart.

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Every bite of Hawaiian Chantilly Cake tells a story of sweetness, richness, and a hint of paradise. This cake is more than just a treat; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the sunny beaches of Hawaii. I remember the first time I had a slice. It was a birthday party, and the cake caught my eye with its beautiful layers and decadent frosting. It wasn’t long before I found myself returning for seconds—and thirds!
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about making your perfect Hawaiian Chantilly Cake. We will explore its flavors, indulge in a step-by-step recipe, and discover tips for storing and substituting ingredients. So grab your apron and let’s get baking!
What is Hawaiian Chantilly Cake?
Hawaiian Chantilly Cake is a light and luscious dessert that features layers of fluffy cake combined with a creamy frosting. The cake itself is typically made using a unique blend of vanilla and chocolate flavors, which creates a delightful contrast appealing to diverse palates. The frosting is made with whipped cream and often includes macadamia nuts, adding texture and nuttiness to each bite.
Notably, this cake is popular in Hawaii but has found its way into the hearts of dessert lovers worldwide. It’s often served at celebrations, weddings, and special gatherings. The beauty of this cake lies not just in its taste but also in its presentation. Each slice reveals layers of incredible flavor, making it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach.
How Does It Taste Like?
Once you slice into Hawaiian Chantilly Cake, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of vanilla and cocoa. The first bite is a delightful surprise; the cake is incredibly soft and moist, melting in your mouth. The frosting adds a creamy, buttery contrast, with hints of sweetness that linger on your palate. The nuts scattered throughout the frosting provide a nice crunch, balancing the softness of the cake with a delightful texture. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll adore Hawaiian Chantilly Cake for various reasons. First, it’s perfectly balanced. The sweetness is there, but it doesn’t overwhelm. Then there’s the texture; each forkful offers a lovely interplay of soft cake and creamy frosting. It’s versatile! Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a treat for yourself.
Another great aspect is that it can be made in advance, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying time with your family and friends. Plus, it gives you the chance to impress your guests with a dessert that looks and tastes extraordinary.
Ingredients
Let’s dive into what makes this cake so special. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need.
Cake Ingredients:
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 cups cake flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 6 egg whites
Frosting Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cup butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 ¾ cups sugar
- ½ cup chopped macadamia nuts

Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will prevent sticky situations later!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk until evenly mixed. Make sure there are no lumps; you want a smooth blend for the best cake texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the canola oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly before adding to your dry ingredients.
Step 4: Whip Egg Whites
Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy cake; it gives the cake volume.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, ensuring not to deflate the egg whites. Once mixed, fold in the egg whites with care. The batter should be light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, combine egg yolks, sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Step 8: Cool the Mixture
Once thickened, remove it from the heat. In another bowl, combine softened butter, cornstarch, and water, mixing until creamy. Gradually add the cooled egg mixture to the butter mixture until combined.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once your cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting generously on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides. Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on the sides for an inviting look.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Slice it up and serve! This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or a refreshing drink.
Tips On Making Hawaiian Chantilly Cake
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Don’t skimp on vanilla extract or butter. High-quality ingredients yield the best flavors.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature. This helps achieve a better texture.
- Whip Those Egg Whites: The fluffiness of your cake relies heavily on properly beaten egg whites. Don’t rush this step!
- Cool Completely: Make sure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting may melt!
- Experiment with Flavors: While macadamia nuts are classic, you could add coconut flakes or dark chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Nutrition Information
Hawaiian Chantilly Cake is definitely a treat, so moderation is key. Here’s a rough estimate for a single slice based on a standard recipe:
Keep this in mind while enjoying your slice of paradise!
How Do You Store This Hawaiian Chantilly Cake?
To keep your Hawaiian Chantilly Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. If you’re preparing it in advance, it freezes well too. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It stays good for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Hawaiian Chantilly Cake?
- Cake Flour: You can use all-purpose flour instead but consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to make it lighter.
- Canola Oil: Feel free to use vegetable oil or coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Macadamia Nuts: If you’re nut-sensitive, try using sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Butter in Frosting: Vegan butter works as a great substitute for those preferring a dairy-free option.
- Evaporated Milk: Coconut milk can replace evaporated milk, adding a delicious tropical twist.

Hawaiian Chantilly Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will prevent sticky situations later!
- In a large bowl, combine the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk until evenly mixed. Make sure there are no lumps; you want a smooth blend for the best cake texture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the canola oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly before adding to your dry ingredients.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy cake; it gives the cake volume.
- Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, ensuring not to deflate the egg whites. Once mixed, fold in the egg whites with care. The batter should be light and fluffy.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- For the frosting, combine egg yolks, sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Once thickened, remove it from the heat. In another bowl, combine softened butter, cornstarch, and water, mixing until creamy. Gradually add the cooled egg mixture to the butter mixture until combined.
- Once your cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting generously on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides. Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on the sides for an inviting look.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Don’t skimp on vanilla extract or butter. High-quality ingredients yield the best flavors.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature. This helps achieve a better texture.
- Whip Those Egg Whites: The fluffiness of your cake relies heavily on properly beaten egg whites. Don’t rush this step!
- Cool Completely: Make sure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting may melt!
- Experiment with Flavors: While macadamia nuts are classic, you could add coconut flakes or dark chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make Hawaiian Chantilly Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day or two in advance. Just wrap them well and store in the fridge or freeze them. Frost right before serving for the best results.
Q2: How do I prevent my cake from being dry?
Be careful not to overbake it. Checking doneness with a toothpick is key. Also, ensure your ingredients are fresh and properly measured.
Q3: Can I add other flavors?
Certainly! Mango puree or pineapple chunks can be incorporated into the batter or frosting for more tropical flair.
Q4: Is this cake suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.
Q5: What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal. It provides rich chocolate flavor without added sweetness.
Q6: How do I achieve a smooth frosting finish?
Using a spatula dipped in warm water while frosting can help smooth out the frosting easily. Just be sure to dry the spatula before each swipe!
Conclusion
Hawaiian Chantilly Cake brings a slice of happiness with its delightful flavors and textures. This indulgent dessert becomes a centerpiece in any gathering. Each bite says “aloha” with every taste, making it a favorite among all age groups.
So, whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed party or simply celebrating life with a sweet treat, this cake is sure to please. By following the steps and tips outlined here, you can master this delightful dessert and bring joy to your table. Now, let’s get baking!