As I stood in my grandmother’s warm kitchen, the air was filled with a yummy smell. I knew a special treat was coming. She made a cake we called *southern hummingbird cake*. It had ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans.
Each slice was a masterpiece. It brought back memories of family gatherings. We laughed and our hearts were full. I loved watching the layers come together.
Today, I want to share my beloved Hummingbird Cake Recipe with you. I hope you make it and feel the joy it brings!
Key Takeaways
- The Hummingbird Cake Recipe is a classic southern dessert.
- It combines ripe bananas and crushed pineapple for a unique flavor.
- Pecans add a delightful crunch to each slice.
- This cake is perfect for special occasions and gatherings.
- Follow the step-by-step instructions for a delicious hummingbird cake recipe.
- Tips for perfecting the cake will enhance your baking experience.
What is Hummingbird Cake?
Hummingbird cake is a moist dessert that feels like a warm hug. It’s made with bananas, crushed pineapples, and toasted pecans. This mix creates a sweet taste that’s like a tropical vacation.
This cake is famous for its layers and cream cheese frosting. It’s a symbol of Southern kindness, perfect for parties and celebrations. Every bite is a mix of textures and tastes that feels like home.
- Moist and flavorful
- Combines tropical ingredients
- Popular for celebrations
Exploring Southern desserts means learning about hummingbird cake. It’s a taste of history and happiness, wrapped in every slice.
Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Today, I want to share my beloved Hummingbird Cake Recipe with you. I hope you make it and feel the joy it brings!
Ingredients for the Best Hummingbird Cake Recipe
When I make the classic hummingbird cake, I pick the best ingredients. Each one adds to the cake’s yummy taste. It’s a favorite among family and friends.
Essential Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup ripe bananas (mashed, approximately 2 medium bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
Add-ins:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Frosting (Optional Cream Cheese Frosting):
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This list provides the essentials for baking one Hummingbird Cake with a delicious cream cheese frosting. Adjust the quantities if needed for variations or layering!
Together, these ingredients make a moist cake full of flavor. The bananas add moisture. The pineapple adds sweetness. The pecans give a nice crunch.
Each ingredient plays a big part in making the classic hummingbird cake. Using these ingredients will make a cake that’s true to the Southern classic.
How to Make an Easy Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Making an easy hummingbird cake is fun. First, I heat my oven to 350°F. Then, I get my ingredients ready.
In one bowl, I mix dry stuff: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is the cake’s base.
In another bowl, I mix wet stuff. I add sugar, eggs, oil, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and vanilla. This mix makes the cake moist and sweet.
Lastly, I add chopped pecans for crunch. I mix everything gently. Then, I pour the mix into cake pans.
Hummingbird Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a hummingbird cake is fun. I’ll show you how to make it step by step. This way, your cake will be moist and tasty. Just follow these easy steps and make a treat that will wow everyone.
First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure it’s ready for baking. While it heats up, grease your pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This helps your cake not stick.
Then, get your ingredients ready. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a big bowl. Make sure they’re well mixed for a good base.
Now, mix the wet stuff: mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, and vegetable oil in another bowl. Blend them well. Then, add them to the dry mix. Stir until just combined. Don’t overdo it to avoid a dense cake.
Put the batter in your pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.
After cooling, let the layers rest. This makes the cake taste better and feel softer. Then, frost it with your favorite cream cheese frosting. Your cake will look amazing and taste wonderful.
The History of Hummingbird Cake
The hummingbird cake’s story is as colorful as its taste. It started in the early 1970s from a Jamaican recipe. Soon, it became a hit in the South, featured in many cookbooks and magazines.
It was a big deal when Southern Living magazine shared it. This made it a favorite dessert in many places.
The mix of bananas, pineapples, and pecans shows the South’s rich land and cooking traditions. This blend is as sweet as the hummingbird it’s named after.
Looking into the hummingbird cake’s past, I see how it brings people together. Its recipe has changed, but it’s still a key part of family and community events. It adds a special touch of Southern charm to any get-together.
Variations of the Classic Hummingbird Cake
I love exploring the world of hummingbird cake. There are many variations that make this dessert even better. Some add coconut for a chewy texture and tropical flavor. This makes the cake moist and delicious.
Adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg is also popular. These spices warm up the cake, making every bite special. It’s amazing how a little spice can change the cake’s taste.
There are many frosting choices too. I like to use cream cheese, buttercream, or whipped cream. Each frosting has its own special taste that goes well with the cake. This lets me get creative with the best hummingbird cake recipe.
- Classic version: Pineapple, bananas, and walnuts.
- Coconut variation: Adding shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Spiced version: Cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm twist.
- Frosting options: Cream cheese, buttercream, or whipped topping.
There are so many ways to make hummingbird cake. It’s not just a Southern favorite. It’s a chance to show off your creativity. Whether you stick to the original or try something new, the cake is always a treat.
Tips for Baking a Perfect Southern Hummingbird Cake
Making a perfect southern hummingbird cake needs care. I’ve collected some top baking tips for you. They help make sure your cake is always delicious.
Start with ingredients at room temperature. This makes mixing better and the cake lighter. Use ripe bananas for sweetness and moisture. These are key for the cake’s flavor.
Be gentle when mixing the batter. Too much mixing makes the cake dense. We want it light and airy.
Temperature is very important when baking. An oven thermometer is a must. It ensures your oven is at the right temperature. Wrong temperatures can mess up the cake’s texture and taste.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Use ripe bananas for added sweetness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter.
- Invest in an oven thermometer for temperature accuracy.
Follow these tips for baking success. Your hummingbird cake will be moist, tasty, and very tempting.
How to Frost Your Delicious Hummingbird Cake
Frosting a Hummingbird Cake is fun. I love using cream cheese frosting. It matches the cake’s taste perfectly. Make sure your cake is cool before you start.
First, put a thin layer of frosting on. This is called a crumb coat. It keeps crumbs in and makes a smooth base. After it’s set in the fridge, add more frosting.
For extra flair, add chopped pecans on top. They add crunch and taste great with the frosting.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Allow cake layers to cool completely. |
| 2 | Apply a thin crumb coat to seal crumbs. |
| 3 | Chill the cake to set the crumb coat. |
| 4 | Add a thicker layer of frosting for a smooth finish. |
| 5 | Decorate with chopped pecans or other toppings. |
Serving Suggestions for Homemade Hummingbird Cake
There are many ways to serve homemade hummingbird cake. A slice with hot coffee or sweet tea is great. It makes the cake’s flavors pop.
Adding vanilla ice cream makes it creamy and delicious. Or, a dollop of whipped cream adds a light touch.
For special times, cut the cake big and add fresh mint or pecans. These touches make it look and taste amazing.
Storing and Freezing Your Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Keeping your hummingbird cake fresh is key. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. This way, you can enjoy its rich taste without losing quality.
To freeze your cake, cool it first. Then, wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This keeps it fresh and moist.
When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the layers in the fridge overnight. After thawing, frost and serve. This method keeps the cake’s taste and lets you enjoy it whenever you want.
Conclusion
The Hummingbird Cake is more than a dessert. It’s a tradition and a burst of flavors. It shows the heart of Southern baking. With my best hummingbird cake recipe, you can make this treat for any time.
Making this cake is a journey of joy and deliciousness. Mixing ripe bananas, pineapples, and crunchy pecans is rewarding. I encourage you to enjoy every moment of baking this recipe.
Every bite of this cake is a reminder of happiness. It’s about sharing treats made with love. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s make some memories with the best hummingbird cake recipe. Happy baking!