The Best Hummingbird Cake Recipe You’ll Ever Try
If you’re looking for a unique and incredibly flavorful cake, the Hummingbird Cake should be at the top of your list. This southern favorite is bursting with tropical flavors, combining ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and a hint of cinnamon, all topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, baking instructions, and some tips to create the perfect Hummingbird Cake.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this Hummingbird Cake recipe is easy to follow and is bound to impress your guests.
What is Hummingbird Cake?
Hummingbird Cake is a deliciously moist, sweet cake with its roots in the southern United States. Known for its combination of fruit and nut ingredients, it’s often compared to banana bread but with an added tropical twist. Traditionally, it includes crushed pineapple, bananas, and pecans, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Why It’s Popular
One reason why this cake is a crowd favorite is its texture. The Hummingbird Cake is dense but moist, with a perfect balance of sweetness and slight tartness from the pineapple. Moreover, the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy layer that perfectly complements the cake’s fruity notes.
Ideal Occasions for Serving Hummingbird Cake
This cake works well for special events such as birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a standout dessert, perfect for spring and summer, but also comforting in the fall.
Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this moist, delicious Hummingbird Cake:
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 (8-ounce) can of crushed pineapple, undrained
- 2 cups of mashed bananas (about 4 ripe bananas)
- 1 cup of chopped pecans (optional: toasted)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
Optional Garnish:
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans (for garnish)
- Shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring the cakes won’t stick once baked. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for added security.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This will ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the beaten eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Once mixed, fold in the crushed pineapple (with its juice), mashed bananas, and chopped pecans. The oil is essential for keeping the cake moist, while the bananas and pineapple give it that signature texture and flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this could lead to a dense cake.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting.
How to Make the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting.
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla and Sugar
Mix in the vanilla extract and slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out.
Assembling the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled, you’re ready to assemble.
Step 1: Frost the Layers
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top of that. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 2: Garnish
For a professional finish, garnish the top of the cake with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. If you want to get fancy, you can also add fresh fruit like pineapple slices or banana chips for extra decoration.
Tips for the Best Hummingbird Cake
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your cake will be.
- Toast the pecans: For added flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter: This can lead to a tough or dense cake, so stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use high-quality cream cheese: The frosting is a major part of the cake, and using good-quality cream cheese will make a noticeable difference.
Storage and Freezing
The Hummingbird Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage; simply wrap the individual layers in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to use, thaw the cake layers in the fridge overnight and frost them before serving.
Why You Should Make This Hummingbird Cake
Not only is this cake delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. The combination of banana and pineapple creates a cake that’s moist and flavorful, while the cream cheese frosting adds richness without being too heavy. Whether you’re baking for a family celebration, a holiday, or just because, this Hummingbird Cake is guaranteed to be a hit.