Hummingbird Cake Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

Let’s embark on this culinary journey, where flavor meets nostalgia. Hummingbird cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of ingredients, heritage, and love. Originating from the Southern United States, this cake is not just tasty; it tells stories of family gatherings, potlucks, and sweet moments shared over dessert.

What is hummingbird cake, you ask? It’s a harmonious blend of bananas, crushed pineapple, and pecans, all beautifully spiced with cinnamon and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This cake seems to capture the essence of the South with every crumb, making it a favorite for birthdays, holidays, and casual get-togethers.

What is Hummingbird Cake?

At its core, hummingbird cake is an incredibly moist and flavorful layered cake, characterized by its tropical ingredients. It includes overripe bananas and crushed pineapple, which come together to create a luscious texture. The addition of chopped pecans lends a delightful crunch.

Traditionally adorned with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is not about being overly complicated. Instead, it focuses on bringing together simple, wholesome ingredients to create an astonishingly rich and flavorsome experience. Its name hints at sweetness, reminiscent of the hummingbird that flits about seeking nectar.

Why You’ll Love this Hummingbird Cake

Let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a cake that practically begs to be enjoyed? When I first encountered hummingbird cake, I was captivated. The flavors danced on my palate, leaving me yearning for more. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it too:

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of bananas, pineapple, and pecans creates an irresistible blend. The sweetness from the fruit, paired with the nuttiness of the pecans, introduces an exciting contrast that delights every taste bud.
  
• Moistness: If you have ever experienced a dry cake, you’ll appreciate the moist texture of hummingbird cake. The fruit adds moisture, ensuring that each slice is soft and satisfying.
  
• Versatility: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging on a weekend, this cake fits the occasion. You can even personalize it to include your favorite toppings or variations.
  
• Simplicity in Preparation: While it might seem fancy, hummingbird cake is surprisingly straightforward to make. Even novice bakers can whip it up without feeling overwhelmed.
  
• Memories: Hummingbird cake often evokes memories of family gatherings. Its presence at potlucks and celebrations makes it a nostalgic dish, connecting generations through shared recipes and experiences.
  

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Hummingbird Cake

To make this delightful hummingbird cake, gather these ingredients. They’ll transform your kitchen into a mini bakery.

• ¾ cup (180 ml) neutral-flavored cooking oil (I prefer avocado oil, but canola or vegetable oil works well too)
  
• 1 cup (200 g) firmly packed light or dark brown sugar
  
• 1 can (8 oz / 226 g) crushed pineapple, undrained
  
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
  
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (room temperature is best)
  
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
  
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest (adds a bright citrus note)
  
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated white sugar
  
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
  
• 2 cups (479 g) mashed overripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
  

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened (avoid the spreadable tub variety)
  
• ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  
• 4 cups (500 g) powdered sugar
  
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and lightly dusting them with flour.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs. Whisk them together until well blended. Then, add the crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is nicely incorporated. The velvety mixture is your cake's heart.

Step 3: Sift Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step is crucial, as it aerates the flour and ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Over-mixing can result in a dense cake, and we want that airy, delightful texture. Don’t forget to fold in the chopped pecans and orange zest at the very end.

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter equally between the two prepared cake pans. The oven should be preheated and ready. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, a cup at a time, mixing well. Add the vanilla extract and salt, and beat until everything is well combined and fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as you desire, perhaps with extra chopped pecans for a nice touch.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Slice, serve, and enjoy the deliciousness. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging you for this recipe.

Notes

Here are some valuable tips to ensure your hummingbird cake turns out perfectly:

• Use Overripe Bananas: The sweeter and softer the bananas, the better. This adds moisture and flavor.
  
• Avoid Overmixing: Gentle folding of the dry ingredients keeps the cake light and fluffy.
  
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs and butter are at room temperature for better integration.
  
• Don’t Skip the Pineapple: The undrained crushed pineapple is essential for moisture and flavor.
  
• Cool Cakes Completely: Frosting a warm cake can lead to melting frosting. Patience is key!
  

Storage Tips

To keep your hummingbird cake fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Cover the cake loosely to avoid the frosting drying out.
  
• Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted layers. Wrap them in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
  
• Room Temperature: If consuming within a couple of days, you can store the frosted cake at room temperature.
  

(Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your hummingbird cake experience with these suggestions:

• Pair with Fresh Fruit: Adding sliced strawberries or citrus fruits complements the sweetness effectively.
  
• Serve with Coffee: A strong cup of coffee provides a delightful contrast.
  
• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop adds a light texture that offsets richness.
  
• Garnish with Extra Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for texture and a nutty flavor.
  
• Use as a Base for Ice Cream Sundae: Warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream offer a decadent treat.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Hummingbird Cake?

If you’re in a bind or looking for healthier options:

1.Applesauce for Oil: Substitute the oil with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version.

2. Walnuts Instead of Pecans: If you’re allergic to pecans, walnuts can provide a similar crunch.

3. Coconut for Pineapple: For a tropical twist, shredded coconut can replace crushed pineapple.

4. Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter frosting on top of the cake.

5. Maple Syrup instead of Brown Sugar: For a unique flavor, replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup.

Conclusion

Hummingbird cake invites you into its delightful world of flavors and memories. It encapsulates warmth, community, and the simple joy of gathering around a sweet treat. This cake, with its moist texture and tantalizing ingredients, speaks to the heart of home cooking.

Remember, every slice you serve carries with it not just flavors but also stories—stories of family, laughter, and cherished moments. So, the next time you prepare hummingbird cake, know that you’re doing more than just baking; you're creating connections and memories that will last a lifetime. Happy baking!

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