Hummingbird Cake

Introduction

There’s something truly special about Hummingbird Cake that makes it a beloved dessert in my home. The first time I made it, I was amazed by the delightful combination of flavors—sweet ripe bananas, tropical pineapple, and the rich cream cheese frosting that brings it all together. My family couldn’t get enough! Each slice was met with oohs and aahs, and it quickly became a requested favorite at birthdays and special occasions. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors that embodies the essence of Southern cooking. Whether enjoyed at a summer gathering or a cozy family dinner, Hummingbird Cake always brings a smile.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 8 oz crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (plus more for garnish)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This combination creates a flavorful base for the cake.

Add Wet Ingredients

To the dry ingredients, add the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Then, gently fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice), mashed bananas, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut (if using).

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Assemble the Cake

To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Add the second layer and repeat the frosting. Top with the third layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Garnish

For an extra touch, garnish the cake with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top.

Serve

Slice the cake and serve. Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 36g
• Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve the cake warm for a comforting treat.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• As a Snack: Enjoy a slice as an afternoon snack or with coffee.
• At Parties: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
2. Chill the Frosting: For easier spreading, chill the cream cheese frosting for a bit before using.
3. Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
4. Storage: Keep the cake covered to maintain its moisture and flavor.
5. Make It Ahead: The cake can be baked in advance and frosted just before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Pineapple Coconut Version: Increase the coconut to 1 cup for a more tropical taste.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based cream cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Chocolate Hummingbird Cake: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with whipped cream for added creaminess.
• Create a dessert platter with mini Hummingbird cakes and assorted treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The cake layers can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
• Storage: Keep the frosted cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

• Yes, just make sure to drain excess juice if using fresh pineapple.

1. What if I don’t have pecans?

• You can substitute with walnuts or omit them entirely.

1. Can I make this cake in advance?

• Yes, bake the layers a day ahead and frost just before serving.

1. Is Hummingbird Cake suitable for a vegan diet?

• You can make a vegan version by substituting eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives.

1. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

1. Can I freeze the cream cheese frosting?

• Yes, it freezes well; just thaw in the fridge before using.

1. How do I know when the cake is done?

• A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.

1. What can I serve with Hummingbird Cake?

• It pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream.

1. Is Hummingbird Cake gluten-free?

• It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.

1. Can I add more fruits?

• Yes, you can experiment with different fruits, such as mango or even applesauce.

Conclusion

Hummingbird Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of joy that encapsulates warmth and love, making it a favorite among many. Its delightful blend of tropical flavors and rich cream cheese frosting makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging yourself, this cake is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So gather your ingredients, bake a delightful Hummingbird Cake, and enjoy the sweet taste of happiness!

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