If you have a sweet tooth and a fondness for tropical flavors, the Hummingbird Cake is a delightful choice. This Southern classic combines ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut, all enveloped in a rich cream cheese frosting. It’s a moist, flavorful cake that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. Ideal for special occasions or as a simple indulgence, this cake is sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Tips to make the Hummingbird Cake recipe:
1. Use Ripe Bananas: For the best flavor and texture, opt for bananas that are ripe and slightly spotty. They bring natural sweetness and moisture, enhancing the overall taste of the cake.
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2. Drain the Pineapple Well: Ensure that you thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple before adding it to the batter. Excess juice can make the cake too wet and alter its texture.
3. Toast the Coconut: For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the shredded coconut before mixing it into the batter. This step adds a nutty aroma and subtle crunch to the cake.
4. Smooth Cream Cheese Frosting: Make your frosting velvety smooth by letting the cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature. This ensures easy blending and a creamy texture.
How to Make Hummingbird Cake Recipe?
Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl For mixing the cake batter
- 1 Electric mixer For making the frosting
- 3 9-inch cake pans For baking the cake
Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 3 Eggs Lightly beaten
- 1 cup Vegetable oil
- 1.5 tsp Vanilla extract
- 8 oz Crushed pineapple Undrained
- 2 cups Mashed bananas Ripe
- 1 cup Chopped pecans
- 8 oz Cream cheese Softened
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Softened
- 16 oz Powdered sugar Sifted
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add the eggs and oil, stirring just until moistened. Stir in the vanilla, pineapple, bananas, and pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire racks, and let cool completely.
- Beat the cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Spread frosting between layers and on top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with additional pecans if desired.
- Refrigerate leftovers.
Notes
Nutrition
Hummingbird Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its unique blend of bananas, pineapple, and pecans creates a moist and flavorful dessert that stands out among traditional cakes. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy touch that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or simply to share with friends, this cake is sure to impress.
Making a Hummingbird Cake is also a wonderful way to spend time in the kitchen, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are easy to follow, making it a fun recipe to try. Plus, the end result is not just delicious but also visually appealing, with its layered structure and inviting icing.
Finally, sharing a slice of Hummingbird Cake with loved ones is a heartwarming experience. It’s a cake that brings people together, with its origins deeply rooted in Southern hospitality. So, whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or serving it at a celebration, this cake will surely leave a lasting impression on everyone. Happy baking!
