Hummingbird Cake Recipe | Moist & Flavorful Southern Classic

Hummingbird Cake Recipe | Moist & Flavorful Southern Classic

Hummingbird Cake is a Southern classic that combines the delicious flavors of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and pecans in a moist, spiced cake topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Originally from Jamaica, this cake became famous in the U.S. after it was featured in Southern Living Magazine in 1978. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients (Serves 10-12)

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 8 oz crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)

Optional Garnish:

• Extra chopped pecans
• Banana slices
• Pineapple chunks

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch cake pans (or three 8-inch pans for thinner layers).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another large bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with juice), and chopped pecans.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix!

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and, if needed, a little milk for a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
2. Stack the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with frosting.
3. Garnish with extra pecans, banana slices, or pineapple chunks for decoration.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Slice and serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect treat! ☕🎂
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips for the Best Hummingbird Cake

✔ Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
✔ Don’t drain the pineapple—the juice adds extra moisture!
✔ Toast the pecans for a richer, nuttier flavor.
✔ Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.

Now, enjoy a slice of this Southern favorite and let me know if you try it! 🍍🍌🎂✨