Hummingbird Cake Recipe

 

Hummingbird Cake Recipe

Indulge in the depth of flavor of our Hummingbird Cake recipe! Deliciously moist and flavorful, this cake is a pineapple-banana-spice fusion topped with a decadent cream cheese frosting. The combination of the cake's sweetness and the tang of the frosting is pure bliss, and this cake is a perfect dessert for any event. Whether you have a taste for tropical flavors or simply wish to experience a new recipe, this Hummingbird Cake is the way to go.

Photo Credit: Caitlin Bensel

 

Why You'll Love This

You'll love this recipe because it's just the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The pineapple and bananas add their own sweetness and moisture to the cake, and the cream cheese frosting provides a creamy, tangy contrast. And then there are the spices, which provide the cake with a warm, comforting flavor. Whether you serve it as a special occasion dessert or just want a delicious dessert, Hummingbird Cake won't disappoint.

 

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 4-6 people

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Ingredients

·       2 cups of all-purpose flour

·       1 teaspoon of baking powder

·       1 teaspoon of baking soda

·       1 teaspoon salt

·       1 cup of granulated sugar

·       1/2 cup softened unsalted butter

·       2 large eggs

·       1 cup mashed bananas

·       1 cup crushed pineapple

·       1 teaspoon vanilla extract

·       1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

·       Cream cheese frosting (see below for recipe)

For Cream Cheese Frosting

·       8 ounces softened cream cheese

·       1/2 cup softened unsalted butter

·       2 cups of powdered sugar

·       1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

·       2 (9-inch) round cake pans

·       Mixing bowls

·       Whisk

·       Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

 Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Grease the cake pans and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cake

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together.

2. In a separate bowl, cream sugar and butter together until fluffy and light.

3. Beat eggs one at a time, then mash bananas and crushed pineapple.

4. Whisk dry ingredients into wet ingredients until smooth.

5. Add the chopped pecans (if using) and vanilla extract and stir.

6. Divide the batter between the pans evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick placed in the center of the cake comes out clean.

2. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

2. Add powdered sugar slowly, beating until smooth and creamy.

3. Beat in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Constructing the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving dish.

2. Frost the top of the cake layer.

3. Position the second cake layer on top.

4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with leftover frosting.

 

Rough Macronutrient Content (per serving)

v  Calories: 400-500

v  Protein: 5-7g

v  Fat: 25-30g

v  Carbohydrates: 40-50g

 

This cake is 4-6 servings, and it's great for a special occasion or family gathering. Serve cold, topped with chopped pecans or whipped topping.

Tips and Variations

·       Use very ripe bananas and fresh pineapple for the fullest flavor.

·       Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for added spice.

·       Replace other nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, for added texture and flavor.

·       Finish the cake with a scoop of ice cream or whipped topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead and store it in the refrigerator for 2 days.

2. How do I keep leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can the cake be frozen?

Yes, the cake may be frozen. First, let it cool completely, and then wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

4. What type of frosting should I use for this recipe?

Cream cheese frosting would be best for this recipe, or you can also use whipped cream or buttercream frosting.

5. Do I have to use other ingredients in the batter?

Yes, you can use other ingredients, such as chocolate chips or dried fruits, in the batter.

6. How do I serve the cake?

Serve the cake cold, topped with chopped pecans or whipped cream.