Hummingbird Cake

Why This Recipe Works

Hummingbird Cake is a Southern classic known for its moist, tender crumb and delightful tropical flavors. The cake combines bananas, pineapples, and pecans with warm spices for a truly unique taste. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet, fruity layers. This recipe ensures a cake that’s not only delicious but also has a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk (or as needed)

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract.
4. Mix the Batter:
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   • Fold in the chopped pecans.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.
   • Add the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
7. Frost the Cake:
   • Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a portion of the frosting on top.
   • Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Note

• Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• Drain Pineapple: Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Consistent Frosting: Adjust the milk in the frosting as needed to achieve the desired consistency.