Hummingbird Cake Recipe

Hummingbird Cake Recipe is a soft and moist Southern classic. It is full of bananas, pineapple and crunchy pecans. Many people love Hummingbird Cake Recipe for birthdays and holidays.

It tastes sweet but fresh at the same time. If you want to learn How to make Hummingbird Cake, you are in the right place.

The Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake are simple and easy to find in any grocery store.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first tried this cake at a family gathering. It was rich, soft and full of flavor. The banana and pineapple made it very moist.

The cream cheese frosting was smooth and creamy. I loved the little crunch from pecans. Now I bake this cake for special occasions.

Everyone always asks for the recipe. It feels homemade and comforting. It also looks beautiful on the table.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Hummingbird Cake
• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: Southern American
• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium bowl
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cooling rack
• Oven

Ingredients You Need for Hummingbird Cake

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained slightly)
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pecans for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch cake pans. This helps the cake come out easily after baking.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, add flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Whisk everything together well. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour mixture.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, oil and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir gently until combined. Do not overmix. The batter will look thick and smooth.

4. Add Fruits and Nuts

Fold in mashed bananas, crushed pineapple and chopped pecans. Mix gently until evenly combined. The batter will look moist and slightly chunky.

5. Pour into Pans

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Spread the top smoothly with a spatula. Tap pans lightly to remove air bubbles.

6. Bake the Cake

Place the pans in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

7. Cool Completely

Remove cakes from the oven. Let them cool in pans for ten minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack. Allow cakes to cool fully before frosting.

8. Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar slowly. Mix until creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix again.

9. Frost the Cake

Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread frosting evenly on top. Add the second layer. Frost the top and sides smoothly. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for better sweetness.
• Do not drain all pineapple juice completely.
• Let the cake cool fully before frosting.
• Toast pecans lightly for extra flavor.
• Store cake in fridge because of cream cheese frosting.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	480 kcal
Carbohydrates	60 g
Protein	5 g
Fat	24 g
Sugar	45 g
Fiber	2 g

Serving Suggestions

Hummingbird Cake Recipe tastes best slightly chilled. The cream cheese frosting stays firm and creamy. Serve it in thick slices for special occasions. You can decorate the top with extra pecans or banana slices.

It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays and family dinners. It always feels festive and special.

Best Sides To Serve With

This cake pairs well with vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries also taste great with it. A hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness.

You can also serve it with sweet iced tea. Light whipped cream works nicely as an extra topping.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store Hummingbird Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to four days. Let slices sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Do not microwave because frosting may melt. You can freeze unfrosted cake layers for two months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

FAQs about Hummingbird Cake

1. Why is it called Hummingbird Cake?

The name comes from its sweet flavor. Some say it attracts people like nectar attracts hummingbirds. It became popular in Southern kitchens many years ago.

2. Can I make this cake in one pan?

Yes, you can bake it in a 9×13 inch pan. Baking time may change slightly. Check with a toothpick to make sure it is done.

3. How to make Hummingbird Cake more moist?

Use very ripe bananas and do not overbake. Pineapple also adds moisture. Make sure to measure flour correctly to avoid dryness.

4. Can I make it without nuts?

Yes, you can skip pecans if you prefer. The cake will still taste sweet and soft. It is perfect for people with nut allergies.

5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake layers one day before. Wrap them well and store in fridge. Frost the cake the next day for best results.

Conclusion

Hummingbird Cake Recipe is sweet, moist and full of tropical flavor. It is perfect for celebrations and family gatherings.

Now you know How to make Hummingbird Cake step by step. The Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake are simple and easy to use.

Try this classic Southern dessert today. Your family will love every soft and creamy bite.