Hummingbird Cake
Delight in a slice of Southern charm with this moist and fragrant Hummingbird Cake. Bursting with tropical flavors from ripe bananas and pineapple, this cake is as inviting as a warm summer day. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and nutty, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting that makes every bite a celebration. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be enchanted by its unique charm!
Why You’ll Love Hummingbird Cake
Versatile
This cake shines as a celebratory dessert, a brunch favorite, or a delightful treat any time of the day.
Budget-Friendly
Using everyday ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet cake without stretching your wallet.
Quick and Easy
With a straightforward recipe and simple steps, it’s ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
Customizable
Add your twist with extra spices, a handful of nuts, or even a drizzle of honey to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing
Its moist texture and vibrant tropical flavors make it a hit with everyone—from family gatherings to festive parties!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Hummingbird Cake
Ripe Bananas: Provide natural sweetness and moisture.
Pineapple: Adds a burst of tropical flavor and juiciness.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the hearty base of the cake.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Help the cake rise to a light, airy texture.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while enriching the flavor.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg): Infuse warmth and depth into every bite.
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall aroma and taste.
Cream Cheese Frosting: The crowning glory that ties all the flavors together.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe card. This step ensures even baking and a perfect rise.
Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This will ensure that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and airy. Then, stir in the chopped nuts for an added crunch.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a well-greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is perfectly baked.
Cool and Frost
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. Once cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top, letting it cascade over the edges for a stunning finish.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into generous portions. Serve it on its own or with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10 slices
Calories per serving: 420
(Nutrition values may vary based on added ingredients.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
How to Serve Hummingbird Cake
This cake is a show-stopper on any dessert table! Serve it as a festive centerpiece at parties, a delightful brunch accompaniment, or a sweet ending to a family dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with a few extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Additional Tips
- Use Very Ripe Fruit: The riper the bananas and pineapple, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Frosting Matters: For a smoother spread, let the cream cheese frosting come to room temperature before applying.
- Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
- Customization: Experiment with adding shredded coconut for an extra tropical twist.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake can be baked a day in advance. Store it tightly covered and add the frosting just before serving.
2. What type of nuts work best?
Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices, but feel free to use your favorite nut for a personal touch.
3. Can I substitute the pineapple?
You can use crushed mango for a different tropical flavor, though it will alter the classic taste slightly.
4. How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?
Ensure your fruit is very ripe and be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light texture.
5. Is there a dairy-free alternative for the frosting?
Yes, you can substitute with a vegan cream cheese alternative if needed.
6. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can experiment with reducing the sugar slightly, but be cautious as it affects both texture and flavor.
7. What if I don’t have baking soda?
Baking soda is essential for the rise; if unavailable, you might need to adjust the baking powder, though the result may vary.
8. How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, the cake will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
9. Can this cake be frozen?
Yes, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
10. Should I adjust baking time for different pan sizes?
Yes, baking time may vary based on the pan size used. Check the cake periodically with a toothpick for doneness.
Conclusion
Hummingbird Cake is a timeless classic that combines the best of tropical fruits and warm spices, creating a dessert that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye. Its moist, flavorful layers and rich cream cheese frosting make it a perfect choice for any celebration or a simple, satisfying treat at home. Enjoy crafting and sharing this beautiful cake, and let its comforting flavors bring a touch of Southern hospitality to your table!
PrintHummingbird Cake
A moist and flavorful cake bursting with the tropical sweetness of bananas and crushed pineapple, accented by crunchy pecans and a hint of coconut. Finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this classic Southern dessert is perfect for celebrations and everyday indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Southern/Caribbean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Stir in the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut into the wet mixture.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
9. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
10. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Optionally, garnish with extra pecans or a light dusting of shredded coconut.
Notes
For optimal flavor, use very ripe bananas. The cake’s flavor deepens after a day, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Adjust the amount of pecans and coconut based on personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
