A slice of hummingbird cake with cream cheese frosting, garnished with banana slices and pineapple.
This Hummingbird Cake is a flavorful, moist cake made with bananas, pineapple, and cinnamon, then topped with tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Hummingbird Cake
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- Moist and flavorful: The combination of bananas, pineapple, and cinnamon gives the cake incredible flavor and moisture.
- Cream cheese frosting: The rich and tangy frosting balances out the sweetness of the cake.
- Easy to make: You don’t need a lot of ingredients, and the steps are simple.
- Customizable: Add nuts or extra fruit to the cake for additional texture and flavor.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or a Sunday afternoon, this cake will impress everyone.
Ingredients for the Best Hummingbird Cake
- Bananas: The key ingredient that gives the cake its moist texture and sweet flavor.
- Pineapple: Adds tropical flavor and more moisture to the cake.
- Flour: The base for the cake batter.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake.
- Eggs: Helps bind the cake and adds richness.
- Baking soda: Helps the cake rise.
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the cake.
- Butter: For richness and moisture.
- Cream cheese: For the frosting that makes this cake so delicious.
- Powdered sugar: To make the frosting smooth and fluffy.
How to Make Hummingbird Cake
- 1. Make the cake batter. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. In another bowl, beat the wet ingredients and then combine them with the dry ingredients. Fold in the mashed bananas and pineapple.
- 2. Bake the cake. Pour the batter into cake pans and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- 3. Make the frosting. Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
- 4. Assemble and frost the cake. Once the cake layers are completely cool, frost the top of each layer and the sides with the cream cheese frosting.
Tips for Perfect Hummingbird Cake
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Use ripe bananas: Overripe bananas give the cake the best flavor and moisture.
- Let the cake cool completely: Allow the cake layers to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Store properly: Keep the cake in the fridge to preserve the freshness of the frosting.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add-ins: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Vegan: Use flax eggs and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan version of this cake.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
- Fridge: Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cake layers (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
- Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing dessert experience.
- Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion.
Reader Review
This cake is a showstopper! It’s so moist and flavorful, and the cream cheese frosting is just perfect.
Hummingbird Cake Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American
If you make this Hummingbird Cake, leave a rating and a comment. What’s your favorite way to enjoy hummingbird cake?