Hummingbird Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a cake that is bursting with flavor and has a moist, fluffy texture, then the Hummingbird Cake is the perfect choice. Originally a Southern classic, this cake is filled with tropical flavors like banana, pineapple, and pecans, all enveloped in a luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s the ideal dessert for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to indulge in a sweet treat at home. Let’s dive into the world of this delectable cake and discover how you can make it at home!
What is Hummingbird Cake?
Hummingbird Cake is a sweet, fruity cake with origins in the American South, particularly popular in the 1970s. This flavorful cake is a delightful combination of crushed pineapple, ripe bananas, and chopped pecans, all spiced with a hint of cinnamon. The cake is typically layered with rich cream cheese frosting, making it irresistibly moist and delicious. Its unique name is believed to come from its sweetness, which is said to attract hummingbirds.
Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake
Here is a complete list of ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious cake:
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 3/4 cups ripe mashed bananas (about 4-5 bananas)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups confectioner’s sugar (depending on desired thickness)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tsp pineapple juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Equipment Needed
To make the Hummingbird Cake, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Electric mixer
- Cooling rack
- Serrated knife (if slicing layers)
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
For the Cake:
- Prepare the Oven and Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick baking spray. Line each pan with parchment paper and then spray the top of the parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until all the ingredients are well mixed. - Add the Wet Ingredients:
Add the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well until the batter starts to come together. Then, fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice), mashed bananas, and chopped pecans (if using). Stir until everything is thoroughly combined; the batter will be thick. - Bake the Cake Layers:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 24-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes. Remove from the pans and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Making the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Butter and Cream Cheese:
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the room-temperature butter and cream cheese on high speed until they are light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. - Add the Sugar Gradually:
Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add the confectioner’s sugar, one cup at a time. Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to high and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy. - Flavor the Frosting:
Add the pineapple juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the frosting mixture. Beat for another 1-2 minutes until the frosting is airy and fluffy.
How to Assemble and Frost the Cake
- Level the Cake Layers:
If your cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to carefully level them. For a more dramatic presentation, slice each cake horizontally to create four layers in total. - Layer the Cake with Frosting:
Place the first layer of cake on your serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Continue layering with the remaining cake layers and frosting. - Frost the Outside of the Cake:
Once all layers are stacked, use the remaining frosting to cover the sides and top of the cake. Smooth the frosting with an offset spatula for a neat finish. - Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle finely chopped pecans over the top of the cake for added texture and flavor. Serve at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Hummingbird Cake
- Use Overripe Bananas: Ripe bananas bring out the cake’s natural sweetness and moist texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Chill the Frosting: For easier spreading, chill the frosting for 15 minutes before assembling the cake.
- Layering Option: If you’re short on time, keep it simple with two layers instead of four.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Cooling the Cake Properly: Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Let your butter and cream cheese come to room temperature for a smooth and creamy frosting.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Lining the pans with parchment paper ensures the cakes release easily after baking.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hummingbird Cake on a decorative cake stand to elevate its presentation. For added visual appeal, decorate with extra chopped pecans or even edible flowers. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top layer can add a sophisticated touch.
Storage Instructions
To store leftover Hummingbird Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make Hummingbird Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. - Can I substitute the pecans?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts instead or omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version. - Why is my cake dense?
Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can make the cake dense. Make sure to measure ingredients correctly and mix just until combined.
Conclusion
Hummingbird Cake is a delightful combination of tropical fruits, warm spices, and creamy frosting that is sure to impress at any event. Give this recipe a try, and let your friends and family savor every bite! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with others and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this.
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Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Make this moist and flavorful Hummingbird Cake with bananas, pineapple, and cream cheese frosting! Perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 3/4 cups ripe mashed bananas (about 4–5 bananas)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups confectioner’s sugar (depending on desired thickness)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tsp pineapple juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
For the Cake:
- Prepare the Oven and Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick baking spray. Line each pan with parchment paper and then spray the top of the parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until all the ingredients are well mixed. - Add the Wet Ingredients:
Add the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix well until the batter starts to come together. Then, fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice), mashed bananas, and chopped pecans (if using). Stir until everything is thoroughly combined; the batter will be thick. - Bake the Cake Layers:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 24-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10-15 minutes. Remove from the pans and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Notes
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hummingbird Cake on a decorative cake stand to elevate its presentation. For added visual appeal, decorate with extra chopped pecans or even edible flowers. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top layer can add a sophisticated touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert