![For a classic Hummingbird Cake, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 ½ cups sugar - 1 teaspoon baking soda - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 cup vegetable oil - 3 large eggs, room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 ½ cups crushed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas) - 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained - 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts - ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened) These ingredients create a moist cake full of flavor. The bananas and pineapple add sweetness and moisture. The nuts and coconut bring a delightful texture. To make the rich cream cheese frosting, you will need: - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 4 cups powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Chopped pecans or coconut for topping (optional) This frosting is creamy and sweet. It pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors of the cake. You can enhance your Hummingbird Cake by adding: - ½ cup of diced mango (for extra flavor) Adding mango gives a tropical twist. Feel free to experiment with other fruits, too! Each add-in will change the flavor and texture. Try different combinations to find your favorite. For the full recipe, refer to the detailed instructions. Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these until they blend well. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until smooth. Next, slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined. Now, add the fun flavors! Fold in 1 ½ cups of crushed ripe bananas, 1 cup of crushed pineapple (make sure it’s drained), 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts, and ½ cup of shredded coconut. If you want an extra kick, add ½ cup of diced mango. Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide your batter evenly between the two pans. Bake them in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting. For the cream cheese frosting, start by mixing 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter in a bowl. Beat them together until creamy. Gradually add in 4 cups of powdered sugar. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy. When the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a nice layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. You can sprinkle some chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top for a lovely finish. Enjoy your delightful Hummingbird Cake! For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To keep your hummingbird cake moist, use ripe bananas and fresh pineapple. They add natural sweetness and moisture. Make sure to drain the pineapple well. Extra liquid can make the cake soggy. Use room temperature eggs and oil for better mixing. This helps the batter come together smoothly. Another tip is to not overmix the batter. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. When it comes to decorating, cream cheese frosting is a must. Spread a thick layer on top and sides. For added flair, sprinkle chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top. You can even add edible flowers for a pop of color. For a tropical theme, place slices of fresh mango on top. This enhances the cake's flavor and looks stunning. Avoid using unripe bananas; they won’t give the cake the right taste. Also, don’t skip the baking soda. It helps the cake rise. Another mistake is not checking the cakes for doneness. Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Lastly, let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off. For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Hummingbird Cake section. {{image_2}} You can easily add a tropical twist to your hummingbird cake. Try adding diced mango for a burst of flavor. Fresh passion fruit can also bring a bright, zesty taste. Replace some bananas with ripe papaya for a fun change. These fruits blend well with the cake's sweetness. If you need a gluten-free cake, use gluten-free flour. Look for one that works in a 1:1 ratio with regular flour. You may also add a bit of almond flour for extra moisture. Ensure your baking soda is gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy a tasty cake that fits your needs. To make a vegan hummingbird cake, swap eggs for flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a plant-based oil and coconut yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting. This makes a rich, creamy texture without using dairy. To keep your Hummingbird Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents it from drying out. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. If you plan to eat it within a few days, store it at room temperature. If not, refrigerate it to extend its life. You can freeze Hummingbird Cake for later enjoyment. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and foil. This will keep the cake fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. When stored properly, Hummingbird Cake lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If it's at room temperature, aim to enjoy it within 2 to 3 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For the best taste and texture, eat it fresh, but it still tastes great after storage! You can find the full recipe for this delightful treat and learn how to make it at home. Hummingbird Cake comes from the Southern United States. It first appeared in a Jamaican recipe in the 1960s. A popular fruit cake, it uses bananas and pineapple. Its sweet taste makes it a favorite at parties. People often serve it with cream cheese frosting. The cake is named after the hummingbird, which loves sweet nectar. Yes, you can definitely use fresh fruit! If you choose fresh fruit, it can add great flavor. Use ripe bananas and fresh pineapple for the best taste. Make sure to mash the bananas well. For the pineapple, chop it into small pieces. This swap keeps the cake moist and delicious. To boost flavor, think about adding spices. More cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the cake. You might also add a splash of rum or coconut extract. Another great idea is to mix in extra fruit. Diced mango or even dried fruit can add a new layer. Adjust the sugar to keep it sweet but balanced. For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Hummingbird Cake section above! Hummingbird cake is a delightful blend of flavors. We explored its key ingredients, from traditional components to tasty add-ins. You learned how to bake the cake and whip up cream cheese frosting. I shared tips to keep your cake moist and added simple decorating ideas. You also discovered variations like gluten-free and vegan options. In summary, this cake is versatile and fun to make. Enjoy creating your own version and share it with family and friends. Hummingbird cake will surely impress everyone!](https://greenmealmap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/06e69a59-b458-4a8e-9dfb-da9ab745b422-768x768.webp)
Hummingbird cake is a taste of sunshine in every bite. This delightful dessert mixes banana, pineapple, and spices for a blissful treat. If you love sweet cakes and fun flavors, you’re in for a real treat! In this post, I’ll share my favorite hummingbird cake recipe, tips, and tricks to make it shine. Get ready to bake a cake that will wow your friends and family!
Ingredients
Traditional Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake
For a classic Hummingbird Cake, gather these simple ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups crushed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas)
– 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
– ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
These ingredients create a moist cake full of flavor. The bananas and pineapple add sweetness and moisture. The nuts and coconut bring a delightful texture.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
To make the rich cream cheese frosting, you will need:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped pecans or coconut for topping (optional)
This frosting is creamy and sweet. It pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors of the cake.
Optional Add-ins
You can enhance your Hummingbird Cake by adding:
– ½ cup of diced mango (for extra flavor)
Adding mango gives a tropical twist. Feel free to experiment with other fruits, too! Each add-in will change the flavor and texture. Try different combinations to find your favorite. For the full recipe, refer to the detailed instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Batter
Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these until they blend well. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until smooth.
Next, slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined. Now, add the fun flavors! Fold in 1 ½ cups of crushed ripe bananas, 1 cup of crushed pineapple (make sure it’s drained), 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts, and ½ cup of shredded coconut. If you want an extra kick, add ½ cup of diced mango.
Baking the Cake
Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide your batter evenly between the two pans. Bake them in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready.
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
For the cream cheese frosting, start by mixing 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter in a bowl. Beat them together until creamy. Gradually add in 4 cups of powdered sugar. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
When the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a nice layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. You can sprinkle some chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top for a lovely finish. Enjoy your delightful Hummingbird Cake!
For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Moisture and Flavor
To keep your hummingbird cake moist, use ripe bananas and fresh pineapple. They add natural sweetness and moisture. Make sure to drain the pineapple well. Extra liquid can make the cake soggy.
Use room temperature eggs and oil for better mixing. This helps the batter come together smoothly. Another tip is to not overmix the batter. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
Decorating Ideas for Hummingbird Cake
When it comes to decorating, cream cheese frosting is a must. Spread a thick layer on top and sides. For added flair, sprinkle chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top.
You can even add edible flowers for a pop of color. For a tropical theme, place slices of fresh mango on top. This enhances the cake’s flavor and looks stunning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using unripe bananas; they won’t give the cake the right taste. Also, don’t skip the baking soda. It helps the cake rise.
Another mistake is not checking the cakes for doneness. Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Lastly, let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Hummingbird Cake section.
Variations
Tropical Additions and Substitutions
You can easily add a tropical twist to your hummingbird cake. Try adding diced mango for a burst of flavor. Fresh passion fruit can also bring a bright, zesty taste. Replace some bananas with ripe papaya for a fun change. These fruits blend well with the cake’s sweetness.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free cake, use gluten-free flour. Look for one that works in a 1:1 ratio with regular flour. You may also add a bit of almond flour for extra moisture. Ensure your baking soda is gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy a tasty cake that fits your needs.
Vegan Adaptations
To make a vegan hummingbird cake, swap eggs for flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a plant-based oil and coconut yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting. This makes a rich, creamy texture without using dairy.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Hummingbird Cake
To keep your Hummingbird Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents it from drying out. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. If you plan to eat it within a few days, store it at room temperature. If not, refrigerate it to extend its life.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze Hummingbird Cake for later enjoyment. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and foil. This will keep the cake fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight.
How Long Does It Last?
When stored properly, Hummingbird Cake lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If it’s at room temperature, aim to enjoy it within 2 to 3 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For the best taste and texture, eat it fresh, but it still tastes great after storage! You can find the full recipe for this delightful treat and learn how to make it at home.
FAQs
What is the origin of Hummingbird Cake?
Hummingbird Cake comes from the Southern United States. It first appeared in a Jamaican recipe in the 1960s. A popular fruit cake, it uses bananas and pineapple. Its sweet taste makes it a favorite at parties. People often serve it with cream cheese frosting. The cake is named after the hummingbird, which loves sweet nectar.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh fruit! If you choose fresh fruit, it can add great flavor. Use ripe bananas and fresh pineapple for the best taste. Make sure to mash the bananas well. For the pineapple, chop it into small pieces. This swap keeps the cake moist and delicious.
How do I make my Hummingbird Cake more flavorful?
To boost flavor, think about adding spices. More cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the cake. You might also add a splash of rum or coconut extract. Another great idea is to mix in extra fruit. Diced mango or even dried fruit can add a new layer. Adjust the sugar to keep it sweet but balanced.
For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Hummingbird Cake section above!
Hummingbird cake is a delightful blend of flavors. We explored its key ingredients, from traditional components to tasty add-ins. You learned how to bake the cake and whip up cream cheese frosting. I shared tips to keep your cake moist and added simple decorating ideas. You also discovered variations like gluten-free and vegan options.
In summary, this cake is versatile and fun to make. Enjoy creating your own version and share it with family and friends. Hummingbird cake will surely impress everyone!
![For a classic Hummingbird Cake, gather these simple ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 ½ cups sugar - 1 teaspoon baking soda - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 cup vegetable oil - 3 large eggs, room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 ½ cups crushed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas) - 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained - 1 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts - ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened) These ingredients create a moist cake full of flavor. The bananas and pineapple add sweetness and moisture. The nuts and coconut bring a delightful texture. To make the rich cream cheese frosting, you will need: - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 4 cups powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Chopped pecans or coconut for topping (optional) This frosting is creamy and sweet. It pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors of the cake. You can enhance your Hummingbird Cake by adding: - ½ cup of diced mango (for extra flavor) Adding mango gives a tropical twist. Feel free to experiment with other fruits, too! Each add-in will change the flavor and texture. Try different combinations to find your favorite. For the full recipe, refer to the detailed instructions. Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these until they blend well. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of vegetable oil, 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until smooth. Next, slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined. Now, add the fun flavors! Fold in 1 ½ cups of crushed ripe bananas, 1 cup of crushed pineapple (make sure it’s drained), 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts, and ½ cup of shredded coconut. If you want an extra kick, add ½ cup of diced mango. Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide your batter evenly between the two pans. Bake them in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting. For the cream cheese frosting, start by mixing 8 oz of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter in a bowl. Beat them together until creamy. Gradually add in 4 cups of powdered sugar. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy. When the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a nice layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. You can sprinkle some chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top for a lovely finish. Enjoy your delightful Hummingbird Cake! For the complete recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To keep your hummingbird cake moist, use ripe bananas and fresh pineapple. They add natural sweetness and moisture. Make sure to drain the pineapple well. Extra liquid can make the cake soggy. Use room temperature eggs and oil for better mixing. This helps the batter come together smoothly. Another tip is to not overmix the batter. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. When it comes to decorating, cream cheese frosting is a must. Spread a thick layer on top and sides. For added flair, sprinkle chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top. You can even add edible flowers for a pop of color. For a tropical theme, place slices of fresh mango on top. This enhances the cake's flavor and looks stunning. Avoid using unripe bananas; they won’t give the cake the right taste. Also, don’t skip the baking soda. It helps the cake rise. Another mistake is not checking the cakes for doneness. Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Lastly, let your cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off. For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Hummingbird Cake section. {{image_2}} You can easily add a tropical twist to your hummingbird cake. Try adding diced mango for a burst of flavor. Fresh passion fruit can also bring a bright, zesty taste. Replace some bananas with ripe papaya for a fun change. These fruits blend well with the cake's sweetness. If you need a gluten-free cake, use gluten-free flour. Look for one that works in a 1:1 ratio with regular flour. You may also add a bit of almond flour for extra moisture. Ensure your baking soda is gluten-free too. This way, you can enjoy a tasty cake that fits your needs. To make a vegan hummingbird cake, swap eggs for flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a plant-based oil and coconut yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting. This makes a rich, creamy texture without using dairy. To keep your Hummingbird Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents it from drying out. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. If you plan to eat it within a few days, store it at room temperature. If not, refrigerate it to extend its life. You can freeze Hummingbird Cake for later enjoyment. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and foil. This will keep the cake fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. When stored properly, Hummingbird Cake lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If it's at room temperature, aim to enjoy it within 2 to 3 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For the best taste and texture, eat it fresh, but it still tastes great after storage! You can find the full recipe for this delightful treat and learn how to make it at home. Hummingbird Cake comes from the Southern United States. It first appeared in a Jamaican recipe in the 1960s. A popular fruit cake, it uses bananas and pineapple. Its sweet taste makes it a favorite at parties. People often serve it with cream cheese frosting. The cake is named after the hummingbird, which loves sweet nectar. Yes, you can definitely use fresh fruit! If you choose fresh fruit, it can add great flavor. Use ripe bananas and fresh pineapple for the best taste. Make sure to mash the bananas well. For the pineapple, chop it into small pieces. This swap keeps the cake moist and delicious. To boost flavor, think about adding spices. More cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the cake. You might also add a splash of rum or coconut extract. Another great idea is to mix in extra fruit. Diced mango or even dried fruit can add a new layer. Adjust the sugar to keep it sweet but balanced. For the full recipe, check out the Tropical Hummingbird Cake section above! Hummingbird cake is a delightful blend of flavors. We explored its key ingredients, from traditional components to tasty add-ins. You learned how to bake the cake and whip up cream cheese frosting. I shared tips to keep your cake moist and added simple decorating ideas. You also discovered variations like gluten-free and vegan options. In summary, this cake is versatile and fun to make. Enjoy creating your own version and share it with family and friends. Hummingbird cake will surely impress everyone!](https://greenmealmap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/06e69a59-b458-4a8e-9dfb-da9ab745b422-250x250.webp)
