Introduction

Hummingbird cake is a delightful Southern dessert that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and crushed pineapple, complemented by a hint of cinnamon. This cake is not only delicious but also incredibly moist, making it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and often garnished with pecans or walnuts, hummingbird cake is as visually appealing as it is scrumptious.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Flour: 3 cups
Sugar: 2 cups
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Vegetable oil: 1 cup
Eggs: 3 large
Mashed ripe bananas: 1 cup (about 3 bananas)
Crushed pineapple: 1 cup (drained)
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
Chopped pecans or walnuts: 1 cup (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:
Cream cheese: 8 oz (softened)
Butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
Powdered sugar: 4 cups
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including cooling)
Yield: 12-16 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until combined.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (drained), sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixtures together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Add the Nuts and Coconut

Fold in the chopped walnuts (or pecans) and shredded coconut into the batter.

Pour the Batter into Pans

Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans.

Bake the Cakes

Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then add the second layer. Repeat with the frosting and the third layer.

Frost the Exterior of the Cake

Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top and the sides of the cake.

Garnish (Optional)

If desired, garnish the cake with additional chopped walnuts or coconut on top for decoration.

Notes

Storage Recommendations

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Banana Ripeness

For the best flavor, use overripe bananas that are very soft and have brown spots.

Variations

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile or swap out the nuts for your favorite type.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs well with fresh fruit or can be served with a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

Cook techniques

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

It is important to separate the dry and wet ingredients before combining them to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures in the cake.

Incorporating Bananas

Mash the bananas thoroughly before adding them to the batter to achieve a smooth consistency and enhance the cake’s moisture.

Layering Flavors

Adding spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile of the cake, creating a more complex taste.

Measuring Flour Correctly

Using the spoon and level method for measuring flour will help prevent the cake from becoming dense and dry.

Folding in Ingredients

Gently folding in the wet ingredients will maintain the airiness of the batter, which is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy cake.

Baking Temperature

Using the correct baking temperature is essential to ensure a properly risen and golden brown cake.

Cooling the Cake

Allowing the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it helps to maintain its structure and prevent breakage.

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas for this cake?

Yes, frozen bananas can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

How do I store leftover Hummingbird Cake?

Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them wrapped in plastic wrap or foil in the freezer until you are ready to assemble.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans or omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version of the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

Conclusion

Hummingbird cake is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of banana, pineapple, and pecans, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert. Its tropical essence makes it perfect for celebrations and gatherings, bringing a taste of the South to any occasion. Easy to make and utterly delicious, this cake is sure to become a favorite for anyone who tries it.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Carrot Cake

Try a classic carrot cake with similar spices and textures. It can be topped with cream cheese frosting for a delightful twist.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Celebrate pineapple’s sweetness by making a pineapple upside-down cake, featuring caramelized fruit atop a moist vanilla cake.

Bananabread

If you love the banana flavor in hummingbird cake, why not whip up a moist banana bread? Add nuts for extra crunch.

Coconut Cream Cake

For a tropical flair, a coconut cream cake layered with coconut frosting would resonate well with the flavors of hummingbird cake.

Peach Cobbler

Enjoy a warm peach cobbler during the summer months. Its fruity filling and buttery crust make it a perfect pairing with hummingbird cake.