Hummingbird cake is a sweet, moist, and flavor-packed dessert that has captured the hearts of cake lovers all over the world. Known for its tropical ingredients like banana and pineapple, and topped with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a Southern favorite with a distinctive charm. Whether served at a celebration, family gathering, or as an afternoon indulgence, this cake brings both comfort and elegance to the table. Its texture is soft, slightly dense, and filled with warm spice flavors, making it one of the most satisfying cakes to bake at home.
What Is Hummingbird Cake?
Hummingbird cake is a layered spice cake that features mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and cinnamon. It’s often paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Originating from the American South, the cake first became popular in the 1970s and has since become a beloved staple for special occasions. Despite its tropical flair, hummingbird cake is rich, hearty, and perfect for cozy moments.
The combination of ingredients not only contributes to its sweet and tangy flavor but also creates a moist crumb that lasts for days. The bananas add body, the pineapple adds brightness, and the nuts contribute a bit of crunch, all brought together by the warm embrace of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional but traditional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream (to adjust consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two or three 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper circles for easy removal. This ensures your hummingbird cake layers come out clean and even.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Stir everything together until evenly mixed. This step helps distribute the leavening and spices throughout the cake batter for consistent flavor and texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until just combined avoid overmixing at this stage to keep the cake tender. Then fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice), mashed bananas, and chopped pecans. The batter will be quite thick and chunky, which is exactly what you want.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the center of the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Be sure the layers are fully cooled before frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake layers are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing well between additions. Add the vanilla extract and a tablespoon of milk or cream to achieve a spreadable consistency. The frosting should be fluffy but firm enough to hold its shape when spread on the cake.
Assembling the Cake
Once the cake layers have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Repeat with the second (and third, if using) layer, then cover the entire cake with a smooth coat of frosting. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top or press them into the sides for extra texture and a decorative touch.
Tips for Perfect Hummingbird Cake
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the more natural sweetness and moisture they will add to the cake.
- Do not drain the pineapple: The juice adds essential flavor and moisture, helping to keep the cake soft.
- Don’t overmix: Gently folding the ingredients helps avoid a tough texture.
- Chill the cake before slicing: After frosting, chilling the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes helps make cleaner slices.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Hummingbird cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because of the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep it chilled, but let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
This cake is perfect for birthdays, Easter, Mother’s Day, or any celebration where a crowd-pleasing dessert is needed. It pairs well with coffee or tea and makes a standout centerpiece on any dessert table.
Variations to Try
- Make it a bundt cake: Pour the batter into a well-greased bundt pan and bake for about 50-60 minutes.
- Try cupcakes: Use the same batter to make hummingbird cupcakes. Bake in lined muffin tins at 175°C (350°F) for 18-22 minutes.
- Add coconut: A handful of shredded coconut can add even more tropical flavor and texture.
- Use different nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or macadamia nuts, depending on your taste.
Why It’s Called Hummingbird Cake
The origins of the name ‘Hummingbird Cake’ are somewhat mysterious, but many believe it’s because the cake is sweet enough to attract hummingbirds. Some say it originated in Jamaica and was named after the island’s national bird, the hummingbird, before the recipe made its way to the Southern U.S. Either way, the name reflects the cake’s fruity, sweet, and inviting nature.
This recipe for hummingbird cake brings together rich banana, juicy pineapple, and warm spices in a moist, unforgettable dessert. Its charm lies in its simplicity no fancy techniques, just real ingredients and old-fashioned baking. When topped with smooth cream cheese frosting and a scattering of crunchy nuts, every bite becomes a delightful mix of flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, hummingbird cake is always a sweet success.