Hummingbird Cake Recipe

Hummingbird Cake is a southern classic dessert that blends the tropical sweetness of bananas and pineapple with a subtle hint of cinnamon, all complemented by a creamy cream cheese frosting. This moist, flavorful cake is ideal for any celebration or just to savor with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Hummingbird Cake?

This Hummingbird Cake is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and toasted pecans delivers a delightful harmony of flavors in every bite. The creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting takes it to the next level, adding the perfect balance to the sweetness of the cake.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and promises bakery-quality results. Plus, the addition of toasted pecans adds a satisfying crunch to the soft, moist cake layers, making it an irresistible treat.

I’ll walk you through every step, ensuring you feel confident and excited to bake this timeless cake. From preparing the ingredients to decorating the final masterpiece, let’s make this iconic dessert together.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour: 3 cups (375g), spooned and leveled for accuracy.
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, for a perfect rise.
Ground cinnamon: 1½ teaspoons, for a warm, spiced flavor.
Salt: ½ teaspoon, to balance the sweetness.
Mashed ripe bananas: 1½ cups (345g), about three large bananas, for natural sweetness and moisture.
Crushed pineapple: One 8-ounce can, undrained, adding a tropical flair.
Vegetable oil: 1 cup (240ml), ensuring a moist crumb.
Granulated sugar: ¾ cup (150g), for balanced sweetness.
Light brown sugar: ¾ cup (150g), adding a caramel-like depth.
Large eggs: 3, at room temperature, for a smooth batter.
Pure vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, enhancing the overall flavor.
Toasted pecans: 1½ cups (250g), chopped, for crunch and richness.

For the Frosting:

Cream cheese: 16 ounces (452g), softened for creamy frosting.
Unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g), softened, creating a smooth texture.
Confectioners’ sugar: 4 cups (480g), sifted for lump-free frosting.
Vanilla extract: 1½ teaspoons, for a subtle vanilla finish.
Pinch of salt: To balance the frosting’s sweetness.

How to Make the Perfect Hummingbird Cake

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C).
Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Toast the pecans for about 7–8 minutes or until they become fragrant and slightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely. This step enhances the nutty flavor, making the cake even more delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with its juice), vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
Fold in 1½ cups of the toasted pecans, saving a handful for garnish.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake the cakes for 26–29 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool for 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

How to Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter.
Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the mixture on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor

Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud.
Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Increase the mixer speed to high and beat for 3 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. Adjust the consistency if needed by adding a splash of milk (if too thick) or more confectioners’ sugar (if too thin).

Assembling and Decorating the Hummingbird Cake

Step 1: Level the Cake Layers

If the cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them for a flat, even surface. This ensures stability when stacking.

Step 2: Layer and Frost

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
Add the second layer and repeat the frosting process. Finally, top with the third layer and spread frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake.

Step 3: Garnish and Finish

Sprinkle the remaining toasted pecans on the sides and top of the cake for a decorative touch.
For an elegant look, pipe frosting swirls on the edges or add a few whole pecans as a centerpiece.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature

If you plan to enjoy the cake within a day or two, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the container is placed in a cool area to keep the frosting from softening too much.

Refrigerator

For longer storage, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Before serving, bring the cake to room temperature for about 20–30 minutes to enhance its flavors.

Freezer

To freeze, wrap individual cake slices or whole cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This method preserves the cake for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

Hummingbird Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of southern comfort and hospitality. Each slice offers a delightful medley of tropical fruitiness, warm spices, and nutty richness, all balanced perfectly by the tangy cream cheese frosting.

Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy a craving, this recipe is a surefire way to impress your loved ones. With easy-to-follow steps and foolproof techniques, you’ll be serving up a cake that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s bake this iconic Hummingbird Cake together!

Enjoy every bite of this sweet southern classic.