Hummingbird Cake: A Southern Classic

This Hummingbird Cake recipe is a Southern classic: banana, pineapple, pecans, and cream cheese frosting! A slice of sunshine for any day. Get the recipe now!

Alright, let's dive into something truly special! Ever wondered what a hug in cake form tastes like?

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Have you ever craved a cake that's both comforting and exciting? our hummingbird cake recipe delivers just that. it's a delightful mix of tropical sweetness and nutty goodness.

Get ready for a flavour explosion!

Brief Overview

This hummingbird cake is a southern gem. it's known for its blend of banana, pineapple, and pecans. it is relatively straightforward but requires a bit of love.

It's perfect for bakers of any level. prep time is about 30 minutes, and bake time is 30- 35 minutes.

This recipe yields a gorgeous cake for 12-16 people.

Main Benefits

It has fruit, so it must be healthy, right? okay, maybe not healthy healthy, but it's packed with fruity goodness.

This delicious cake recipe is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any excuse to celebrate. what makes this moist cake special? it's the way the spices complement the tropical fruits.

Honestly, it's a crowd-pleaser.

Ready to get baking? Let's check the ingredients!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Hummingbird Cake Recipe Going!

Alright, let’s get cracking on this Hummingbird Cake recipe ! It is Southern comfort food with a tropical twist.

Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks

First, you'll need flour. 3 cups (375g) , to be precise. Plain, all-purpose stuff will do just fine. Quality flour gives a better rise.

Next up, sugar! use 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar. it adds sweetness. then there's baking soda. only 1 teaspoon (5g) .

Also add cinnamon. just 1 teaspoon (5g) for that warm spice. salt? a pinch! just ½ teaspoon (2.5g) .

For moisture, grab some vegetable oil. 1 ½ cups (360ml) will do. canola oil works, too. eggs are next. you need 4 large eggs .

Vanilla extract is a must. 1 teaspoon (5ml) is the magic number.

Now for the good stuff: crushed pineapple. use 1 cup (240ml) , undrained. canned is a-okay. bananas? mash 2 cups (400g) of ripe ones.

That's about 4 medium ones. finally, 1 cup (100g) of chopped pecans.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Boosters

Cinnamon and vanilla is the killer combo. a little nutmeg adds warmth. don't skip the vanilla. it's essential! for a jamaican desserts vibe, add a pinch of allspice.

It adds a little je ne sais quoi . if you are making hummingbird food for actual birds, do not include these ingredients.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You only need a few key items. three 9-inch round cake pans. parchment paper is a lifesaver. an electric mixer will be your best friend.

Stand or hand-held, your choice. mixing bowls are obvious. you'll need a rubber spatula.

Alternatively, use two 9x13-inch pans for a hummingbird poke cake . don't have cake pans? a casserole dish can work in a pinch, but adjust baking time.

A wooden spoon can replace the spatula. now, get ready to bake this delicious cake recipes and bring that southern charm to your table! this might become one of your favorites cake homemade, you know? a staple go to poke cake recipe .

Get Ready to Bake: Hummingbird Cake Time!

Okay, buttercup! let's chat hummingbird cake recipe ! this hummingbird cake , right? it's not just any cake; it's a southern charm bomb, a hug on a plate.

Think moist cake, like, seriously moist, thanks to all that yummy fruit. we're talking banana bread's cooler, more sophisticated cousin, kinda like when posh spice tried doing an angelsoni.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First, mise en place , darling! get all your ingredients measured out. this is huge for success, honestly. soften your butter and cream cheese.

Room temperature ingredients are your best friends for a smooth cream cheese icing . chop those pecans. mash those nanners. you know? makes life easier.

Oh, and grease and flour those pans, or use baking spray. parchment paper rounds? even better! this helps stop the dreaded cake-stuck-to-pan drama.

Honestly, i once forgot and had a nightmare trying to salvage a homemade cake . don’t let that be you. safety first! watch for hot ovens.

Bake Like a Boss: The Step-by-Step

Right, let's get baking.

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .
2. Whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, sugar, soda, cinnamon, and salt – in a big bowl.
3. Mix the wet stuff – oil, eggs, and vanilla – in another bowl.
4. Gradually add the wet to the dry, just until combined. Don't overmix !
5. Fold in the pineapple, bananas, and pecans. Boom!
6. Pour the batter into those pans, equally.
7. Bake for 30- 35 minutes . Toothpick test, you know?
8. Cool completely before frosting. I usually let mine cool for 10 minutes in the pans, then flip them onto a rack.

Pro Tips: Unlock Hummingbird Heaven

Want next-level hummingbird cake ? Here are a few tricks.

• Don't overmix the batter! Seriously, it makes the cake tough. We want moist cake , remember?
• Cool completely before frosting, or you'll have a melty, sticky situation on your hands.
• Make it ahead! The cake tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to mingle. Like a fine Jamaican dessert .

If you're after something a bit different, try a hummingbird poke cake . it’s a fun, dump dessert where you poke holes in the baked cake and pour in some kind of liquid, like condensed milk or pudding.

This will result in a very moist cake . there are so many hummingbird cake recipes out there; you just need to find the right poke cake recipe one for you! so why not make this hummingbird food today?

So there you have it: the best homemade cake recipes . now go bake some southern sunshine. this bird cake , this hummingbird cake , is more than just dessert; it’s a memory waiting to be made.

And it is not just a cake it can also be described as hummingbird poke cake .

Recipe Notes: Nailing That Hummingbird Cake

So, you're about to tackle this epic hummingbird cake recipe . awesome! let's chat about a few things to make sure your bake is a total triumph.

Honestly, these little tips can be the difference between "meh" and "omg!" especially if you're diving into this as a hummingbird poke cake .

I've made my fair share of baking blunders, and i'm here to help you avoid them!

Serving it Up: Showstopper Status

Forget just slapping a slice on a plate! think about presentation. a light dusting of powdered sugar? yes, please! a few fresh berries scattered around? even better.

And a cheeky scoop of vanilla ice cream? chef's kiss. this isn't just cake; it's an experience! this delicious cake recipes are perfect for any occasion.

Try a slice with a nice hot beverage like some coffee or tea! for the perfect hummingbird food pairing!

Complementary sides : a tall glass of sweet tea is southern perfection with this hummingbird cake . for something a bit different, try a sparkling cider or even a light-bodied white wine.

Don't forget about vanilla ice cream, a classic that is sure to be a hit!

Storing the Goodness: Making it Last (If it Even Can!)

Let's be real. A moist cake like this probably won't last long. But, just in case you have superhuman willpower, here's the lowdown on storage.

• Fridge Rules: Leftover Hummingbird Cake Recipes should be tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll happily hang out there for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Fun: You can freeze individual slices (wrapped well in cling film and then foil) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating 101: Thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight. Honestly, sometimes I just grab one straight from the freezer and enjoy it cold! But, you can warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds if you're feeling fancy.

Remixing the Recipe: Your Cake, Your Rules

Want to shake things up a bit? Go for it! That's the beauty of baking at cake homemade ! I will admit i am more a lover of Dump Desserts

• Dietary Tweaks: Need a gluten-free version? Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Vegan? There are tons of egg replacements and dairy-free cream cheese icing options out there.
• Seasonal Swaps: I reckon you could use applesauce instead of banana, for your own little Apple Chicken , in autumn. Or try adding a touch of lime zest in the summer for a zesty kick! Think about other Jamaican Desserts as an inspiration.

Nutrition Nuggets: Feel-Good Cake!

Okay, let's not pretend this is health food. it's cake! but, it does have some redeeming qualities. bananas offer potassium, pineapple brings vitamin c, and pecans provide healthy fats.

It is not the best bird cake recipe for a hummingbird, but the best bird cakes recipe for us, humans!.

• Each slice packs a punch of flavor, so you won't need a huge portion. That's a win, right? Think of it more of a slice to satisfy you rather than a fill-you-up desert.
• Remember that estimated 450-550 calories per serving.

Honestly, this hummingbird cake is more than just a cake; it's a hug on a plate. embrace the imperfections, enjoy the process, and get ready for some serious baking joy.

You got this! you will make a poke cake recipe that will impress all. now go make a moist cake , with this cake poke technique and enjoy these homemade cake recipes .

Soon you will have mastered all hummingbird cake recipes !

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hummingbird cake recipe, and why is it called that?

Hummingbird cake is a spiced cake made with bananas, pineapple, and pecans, topped with cream cheese frosting. The name supposedly comes from the fact that it's so delicious, people will hum with delight, or because the sweetness attracts hummingbirds. It's a Southern classic, like sweet tea and front porch swings!

Can I make a hummingbird cake recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, many bakers reckon it tastes even better the next day! You can bake the cake layers and store them, tightly wrapped, at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. Frost it just before serving, or even frost the whole thing and keep it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature a bit before serving for the best texture.

My hummingbird cake turned out dry. What did I do wrong?

A dry cake is a baking bummer, but don't fret! Overbaking is a common culprit, so try reducing the baking time by a few minutes next time. Also, make sure you're using enough oil and undrained crushed pineapple in the batter, as they contribute to the cake's moistness. Finally, double-check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; ovens can be temperamental sometimes.

Is there anything I can substitute for the pecans in this hummingbird cake recipe? I'm allergic!

Of course! If you have a pecan allergy, you can easily substitute with walnuts, or omit the nuts altogether. Walnuts will give a similar nutty flavor and crunch. If you skip the nuts entirely, you might consider adding a bit of shredded coconut for a different textural element – it plays well with the banana and pineapple.

How should I store leftover hummingbird cake?

To keep your hummingbird cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the cream cheese frosting, it needs to stay chilled. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage – just wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil.

Is a hummingbird cake recipe actually healthy?

Let's be honest, it's cake! While it contains fruit and nuts, which offer some nutritional value, it's also high in sugar and fat. Consider it a treat to be enjoyed in moderation. If you're looking to make it slightly healthier, you could reduce the amount of sugar in the frosting or use whole wheat flour (though it will change the texture slightly).

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