Authentic Hummingbird Cake Recipe: A Southern Delight with Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting

Prepare to be enchanted by the ultimate Southern classic: the Hummingbird Cake. This iconic dessert, renowned for its incredibly moist texture and a symphony of tropical and comforting flavors, holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a celebration of Southern hospitality and a testament to timeless baking traditions. While its widespread fame truly soared after a beloved recipe was published in Southern Living magazine in the late 1970s, whispers of this delightful cake being a cherished favorite in Southern kitchens date back much further, possibly to the mid-19th century. Its journey from a regional gem to a national sensation highlights its undeniable charm and universal appeal.

The magic of Hummingbird Cake lies in its harmonious blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Ripe, mashed bananas provide a natural sweetness and unparalleled tenderness, while crushed pineapple (juice and all!) infuses every bite with a bright, tangy moisture. Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty depth, perfectly complemented by the warm, aromatic embrace of cinnamon. All these wonderful elements are beautifully brought together in a tender cake, then generously crowned with a rich, tangy, and impossibly smooth cream cheese frosting. This combination creates a dessert that is both comforting and exotic, making it a perennial favorite for holidays, family gatherings, or simply a sweet escape any day of the week.

The Irresistible Components of a Classic Hummingbird Cake

A truly authentic Hummingbird Cake typically features three beautifully moist, round layers, each bursting with flavor and delightful textures. The foundation of these layers includes generously mashed ripe bananas, which contribute significantly to the cake’s tender crumb and natural sweetness. Alongside the bananas, crushed pineapple, often incorporated with its juice, plays a critical role in providing essential moisture and a subtle, tropical tang that brightens the entire flavor profile. Finely chopped pecans are then folded into the batter, offering a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty counterpoint to the fruits. A touch of ground cinnamon weaves through the cake, adding a comforting warmth and depth that perfectly ties all the vibrant flavors together.

However, no Hummingbird Cake is complete without its signature topping: a decadent, velvety cream cheese frosting. This luscious frosting, crafted from softened unsalted butter, creamy cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and pure vanilla extract, provides the ideal balance to the cake’s sweetness and rich fruitiness. Its slight tang cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly harmonious bite. While most traditional recipes stick to these core elements, variations do exist; some bakers love to include shredded coconut in the batter, introducing another layer of tropical flavor and chewiness. Regardless of these minor variations, the defining characteristics of a Hummingbird Cake are its incredibly moist crumb, its unique fruity-nutty combination, and its iconic cream cheese frosting.

The Enduring Charm and Legacy of a Southern Favorite

Despite the passage of time and the inevitable small tweaks by various bakers, the heart of the Hummingbird Cake remains remarkably consistent. Most contemporary recipes closely adhere to the original combination of ingredients and proportions that have been lovingly handed down through generations. This consistency isn’t accidental; it speaks to the inherent perfection of the initial recipe. Each component is meticulously balanced: the bananas provide a foundational moisture and gentle sweetness, the pineapple ensures a consistently tender and flavorful crumb, and the pecans add a satisfying textural contrast and a delightful nutty note. The ever-present hint of cinnamon acts as the unifying spice, weaving through the fruits and nuts to create a comforting, complex flavor profile that makes every single bite a moment of pure enjoyment and a taste of cherished tradition.

Unraveling the Sweet Mystery: Why the Name “Hummingbird” Cake?

The whimsical name “Hummingbird Cake” invariably piques curiosity and has given rise to several charming theories about its origins. While a single, definitive explanation remains elusive, the most widely accepted and delightful theory suggests that the cake is so exquisitely sweet, fragrant, and utterly delicious that it could effortlessly entice hummingbirds, much like the nectar-rich flowers they adore. This beautiful analogy perfectly encapsulates the cake’s irresistible allure and its naturally sweet foundation, primarily derived from its fruit content. Imagine a dessert so captivating that even the most discerning tiny birds would flock to it!

Another popular theory playfully proposes that the cake is so delightful and satisfying that it makes you “hum with joy” as you savor each bite. This theory speaks to the profound sense of comfort and pleasure the cake brings. A less common, but equally intriguing, idea is that the cake’s vibrant, tropical essence and its array of colorful ingredients evoke the image of these energetic, brightly feathered birds. As someone who appreciates culinary history but isn’t a native Southerner, I’ve gathered these delightful anecdotes from countless conversations with Southern bakers and extensive historical accounts. The consistent thread through all these stories is the cake’s captivating sweetness and its power to bring immense joy. Regardless of the exact etymology, the name itself adds an extra layer of charm to this already enchanting dessert. What fascinating stories or theories have you encountered regarding the famous name of this Southern treasure? We’d love for you to share your insights in the comments section below!

The Perfect Dessert for Any Grand Occasion

Irrespective of the charming folklore surrounding its name, one truth remains unequivocally clear: Hummingbird Cake is an absolutely magnificent dessert that consistently delivers a stunning presentation. Its impressive height, formed by its multiple tender layers, generously cloaked in a creamy, ethereal frosting, and often adorned with additional chopped pecans or even delicate edible flowers, makes it an undeniable showstopper at any gathering. This cake is perfectly suited for a wide array of occasions, whether it’s the centerpiece of a festive holiday feast, a joyous birthday celebration, a warm family reunion, or simply a luxurious treat to elevate a special weekend. The intricate yet balanced flavor profile—a delightful fusion of moist crumb, sweet tropical fruits, nutty crunch, and the rich tang of cream cheese frosting—culminates in an unforgettable taste experience that is simultaneously sophisticated and profoundly comforting. It’s truly a cake that brings genuine delight and a sense of occasion with every single, heavenly forkful, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who tastes it.

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Mastering Your Hummingbird Cake: Essential Baking Tips for Success

Crafting a perfectly moist, flavorful, and show-stopping Hummingbird Cake is an achievable feat with just a few expert tips. Paying attention to these details will ensure your cake is not only delicious but also consistently perfect every single time you bake it:

Embrace Overripe Bananas: This is perhaps the most crucial tip! Do not settle for firm, yellow bananas. The bananas used in Hummingbird Cake should be very ripe, almost to the point of being entirely brown and soft. This ripeness maximizes their natural sweetness and contributes immensely to the cake’s signature moistness and rich banana flavor. Mash them thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the batter.
Pineapple with Purpose: Always use canned crushed pineapple that is packed in its own juice, and most importantly, do not drain it! The liquid from the pineapple is vital for the cake’s moisture content and provides a subtle acidity that interacts beautifully with the baking soda, aiding in leavening and creating a tender, light crumb.
The Power of Toasted Pecans: While adding raw pecans is acceptable, toasting them is a game-changer. Spread your pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant and slightly darkened. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning! Once toasted, let them cool completely before chopping and folding into the batter. This step significantly amplifies their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible crunch.
Room Temperature for Frosting Perfection: For the ultimate smooth and lump-free cream cheese frosting, ensure both your unsalted butter and cream cheese are at true room temperature. This allows them to cream together seamlessly without lumps, resulting in a light, airy, and easily spreadable frosting. Plan ahead and take them out of the refrigerator at least an hour or two before you start.
Gentle Mixing is Key: After combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix the batter only until everything is just incorporated. Overmixing can overdevelop the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense cake. Similarly, when folding in the bananas, pineapple, and pecans, mix gently until they are evenly distributed, but no more.
Test for Doneness Accurately: Ovens can vary, so rely on more than just the timer. Insert a wooden skewer or a clean toothpick into the very center of your cake layers. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your cake is perfectly baked. A wet batter on the toothpick indicates it needs more time, while a completely dry toothpick could mean it’s on the verge of overbaking.
Patience with Cooling: Resist the urge to frost warm cakes! Allow your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack before you even think about applying frosting. Attempting to frost a warm cake will inevitably lead to melted, sliding frosting and a messy result. Patience here is a virtue that pays off with a beautifully assembled cake.

Essential Ingredients for This Irresistible Hummingbird Cake:

To successfully bake this magnificent Southern dessert, ensure you have these high-quality ingredients at hand. Each plays a crucial, complementary role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures that define the beloved Hummingbird Cake.

3 cups all-purpose flour: The primary structural component, providing the cake’s tender framework.
2 cups granulated sugar: Essential for both sweetness and contributing to the cake’s moist texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Our key leavening agent, reacting with acidic ingredients to create a light and airy crumb.
1 teaspoon salt: A flavor enhancer that beautifully balances the sweetness of the fruit and sugar.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The signature spice, imparting a warm, aromatic depth that defines the cake’s character.
1 cup canola oil: Provides an exceptional level of moistness, ensuring the cake remains tender and fresh for longer.
3 large eggs: Act as binders, adding richness, structure, and emulsification to the batter.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: A crucial flavor enhancer that rounds out and deepens all the other sweet notes.
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple packed in juice: The secret to intense moisture, a tropical tang, and a softer crumb (absolutely do not drain the juice!).
1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and chopped, plus extra for garnish: Offers a delightful textural contrast and a rich, buttery, nutty flavor, especially when toasted.
2 ripe bananas, peeled and chopped: The heart of the cake’s unique moistness and natural, comforting sweetness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

This luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting is not just a topping, but an integral part of the Hummingbird Cake experience. Its creamy richness perfectly complements the fruity cake layers.

16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Provides the creamy base and richness for a perfect frosting consistency.
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted: For smooth sweetness and body, ensuring the frosting is light and free of lumps.
16 ounces cream cheese, cut into 8 pieces, softened: The star ingredient, delivering the characteristic tangy flavor that makes this frosting iconic.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and aromatic sweetness.
Pinch of salt: Crucial for cutting through the sweetness and balancing all the flavors in the frosting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Dream Hummingbird Cake

Follow these meticulously detailed instructions to effortlessly bring this magnificent Southern dessert to life in your own kitchen. Each step is crafted to ensure you achieve a wonderfully moist, exquisitely flavorful cake, topped with a perfectly smooth and delectable cream cheese frosting.

Cake Preparation:

Prepare Your Pans: Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 350 degrees F (175°C). Then, take three 9-inch round cake pans and generously grease and flour them. This critical preparatory step is essential for preventing the cake layers from sticking and ensuring they release cleanly and beautifully once baked. After flouring, gently tap out any excess flour.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This whisking action is crucial as it ensures all these dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout, preventing any pockets of unmixed leavening agent or concentrated salt, which can affect the cake’s texture and taste.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, combine the canola oil, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until they are thoroughly blended and emulsified. The canola oil is key here, contributing significantly to the cake’s renowned moistness and tender crumb.
Combine Wet and Dry: Carefully pour the whisked wet ingredients into the bowl containing your dry mixture. Using your mixer set to low speed, beat the mixture just until all the ingredients are combined and no streaks of flour remain. At this stage, you’ll notice the batter is quite thick, almost resembling the firm consistency of taffy. It’s crucial to avoid overmixing, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough, less tender cake.
Fold in Fruits and Nuts: With your mixer still operating on a low speed, gently add the crushed pineapple (remember, with all its juice!), the toasted and finely chopped pecans, and the mashed ripe bananas into the thick batter. Once these additions are in, increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating only until these wonderful ingredients are just well combined and evenly distributed throughout the batter. Again, be vigilant about not overmixing; gentle handling preserves the cake’s delicate texture.
Bake the Layers: Divide the prepared batter evenly among your three greased and floured cake pans. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Crucially, bake until a wooden skewer or clean toothpick, when inserted into the very center of a cake layer, comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. Baking times can vary significantly between ovens, so monitor your cakes closely as they near the end of the suggested time!
Cooling Process: Once your cake layers are beautifully golden and baked through, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in their pans on a wire rack for precisely 10 minutes. This short resting period allows the cakes to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. After 10 minutes, carefully invert the cakes onto the wire racks to cool completely. This thorough cooling is an absolute must before you even consider applying frosting, as any warmth will cause your delicious cream cheese frosting to melt and slide off, creating a messy, undesirable result. Patience at this stage ensures a stunning final cake!

Cream Cheese Frosting Preparation:

A silky-smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to the rich Hummingbird Cake. Here’s how to make it:

Whip the Butter: In the clean bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened unsalted butter at a medium-high speed. Continue beating until the butter becomes noticeably light in color and wonderfully creamy in texture, typically taking about 2 to 3 minutes. This aerates the butter, creating a lighter frosting.
Add Powdered Sugar: Reduce the mixer speed to low, and gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, a little at a time, to avoid a powdery cloud. Once the majority of the sugar has been incorporated, increase the speed back to medium-high and continue beating until the frosting mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth, which usually takes another 2 minutes.
Incorporate Cream Cheese: With the mixer still running at a low speed, add the softened cream cheese, one piece at a time, allowing each addition to incorporate before adding the next. Beat only until the frosting is just smooth and uniformly blended. Be very careful not to overmix the cream cheese, as this can cause the frosting to become runny and lose its desired texture.
Finish the Frosting: Finally, beat in the vanilla extract and the pinch of salt. The vanilla enhances the overall flavor, while the salt is crucial for cutting through the sweetness, balancing the flavors, and preventing the frosting from being overly cloying.

Assembling Your Magnificent Hummingbird Cake:

With your cake layers cooled and frosting prepared, it’s time to bring your Hummingbird Cake to life with a beautiful, professional finish!

First Layer: Carefully place one of your perfectly cooled cake layers onto your chosen serving plate or a sturdy cake stand. Using an offset spatula or a knife, spread approximately 1 1/2 cups of your luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the top surface of the cake layer, extending it almost to the very edges for a clean look.
Second Layer: Gently and precisely place the second cooled cake layer directly on top of the frosted first layer. Now, repeat the frosting process: spread another generous 1 1/2 cups of the cream cheese frosting evenly over the surface of this second layer. Aim for consistency to ensure even distribution and a stable structure for your cake.
Final Layer and Frosting: Place the final cake layer on top, completing your three-tiered masterpiece. Now, use the remaining cream cheese frosting to generously cover the entire top surface and the sides of the cake. You can opt for a beautifully smooth, polished finish with an offset spatula, or embrace a charmingly rustic look with textured swirls, depending on your preference. For an elegant final touch, consider garnishing the top or sides with extra chopped pecans.

Now, your magnificent Hummingbird Cake is complete! Serve this Southern delight with pride and prepare for an abundance of compliments and delighted smiles. Its rich, inviting aroma and stunning appearance are merely a prelude to the truly unforgettable flavors awaiting within.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Your Hummingbird Cake

To preserve the exquisite freshness and moistness of your Hummingbird Cake, especially given its delicate cream cheese frosting, proper storage is key. Always store the assembled cake in the refrigerator, loosely covered with plastic wrap or, ideally, under a cake dome. This will help prevent it from drying out and absorbing any refrigerator odors. When stored correctly, your cake will remain deliciously fresh for up to 3-4 days.

For those who love to plan ahead, the cake layers can be baked in advance. Once they are completely cooled, wrap each layer tightly in several layers of plastic wrap. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a day or frozen for a longer period, up to a month. When ready to use frozen layers, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before proceeding with frosting. The cream cheese frosting itself can also be prepared 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a quick re-whip with your mixer to restore its fluffy texture.

Creative Variations to Explore with Your Hummingbird Cake

While the classic Hummingbird Cake recipe is a masterpiece in its own right, there’s always room for a little creative exploration to tailor it to your personal taste. If you’re a fan of even more tropical notes, consider incorporating 1/2 cup of shredded unsweetened coconut into the cake batter; this adds another layer of flavor and a lovely textural dimension. For those who prefer a different nut or are managing allergies, walnuts or even macadamia nuts can be delightful substitutes for pecans, offering their own unique crunch and flavor profile. If you desire a bolder spice presence, feel free to slightly increase the amount of cinnamon, or add a pinch of complementary spices like nutmeg, allspice, or even a touch of ginger for extra warmth. For an indulgent flourish, a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce over individual slices can elevate the dessert, introducing a rich, buttery counterpoint to the cake’s fruity sweetness. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this beloved Southern cake uniquely yours!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Hummingbird Cake

Here are answers to some common questions that arise when baking this Southern classic, helping you achieve perfect results every time.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple for this recipe?: A: While fresh pineapple might seem like a healthier or more authentic option, canned crushed pineapple is generally recommended for Hummingbird Cake. Canned pineapple is often more acidic, and this acidity plays a crucial role in reacting with the baking soda to properly leaven the cake, contributing to its light and tender crumb. Additionally, fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can sometimes interfere with the dairy proteins in the batter, potentially leading to an undesirable texture or preventing the cake from setting properly. For consistent and best results, stick with canned crushed pineapple, including its juice.
Q: Is toasting the pecans really necessary, or can I skip that step?: A: Toasting the pecans is technically optional, but it is highly recommended if you want to elevate the flavor of your cake! Toasting brings out a much deeper, richer, and more pronounced nutty flavor in the pecans, which significantly enhances the cake’s overall taste and aroma. While skipping this step won’t ruin your cake, the pecans will primarily provide texture rather than a full, complex flavor. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
Q: My cream cheese frosting turned out too thin and runny. What could have gone wrong?: A: A runny cream cheese frosting is a common issue, typically caused by either the butter and cream cheese being too warm, or by overmixing the frosting. Ensure both your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature, but not melted or greasy. If the frosting becomes too thin, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes, then re-whip it briefly. You can also carefully try adding a tablespoon or two more of sifted powdered sugar to help thicken it, but be cautious not to make it excessively sweet.
Q: Can I adapt this Hummingbird Cake recipe to make cupcakes instead?: A: Absolutely! Hummingbird cake batter is wonderfully versatile and works perfectly for cupcakes. Simply line your muffin tins with paper liners and fill each cup about two-thirds full with the batter. The baking time will be shorter; typically, cupcakes will bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Always monitor your cupcakes closely and adjust the baking time as needed, as oven temperatures can vary.
Q: How far in advance can I prepare and store Hummingbird Cake?: A: You can prepare components of the Hummingbird Cake in advance to streamline your baking process. The baked cake layers, once completely cooled, can be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or frozen for up to a month. Thaw any frozen layers in the refrigerator before you plan to frost. The cream cheese frosting can also be made 1-2 days ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator; just be sure to let it come to room temperature and re-whip it briefly before you use it for assembly. For the best freshness and most beautiful presentation, it is recommended to assemble and frost the entire cake on the day you plan to serve it, though a fully assembled cake will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

More Delightful Banana and Pineapple Desserts to Enjoy:

If the captivating flavors of the Hummingbird Cake have won you over, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate these other fantastic recipes that celebrate the sweet richness of bananas and the vibrant tang of pineapple. These selections are perfect for expanding your repertoire of tropical-inspired baked goods and will surely bring a smile to anyone’s face!

Easy Banana Cake with Banana Whipped Cream Frosting
Banana Cupcakes with Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting
Pineapple Upside Down Cake in a Cast Iron Skillet
Pineapple Dream Dessert

Hummingbird Cake

Hummingbird Cake is usually three round layers containing bananas, cinnamon, pineapple and pecans, and is usually topped with a cream cheese frosting.

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Author:

Amanda Davis

Ingredients

▢

3
cups
all-purpose flour
▢

2
cups
sugar
▢

1
teaspoon
baking soda
▢

1
teaspoon
salt
▢

1
teaspoon
ground cinnamon
▢

1
cup
canola oil
▢

3
large eggs
▢

1
tablespoon
vanilla extract
▢

1
8-ounce can crushed pineapple packed in juice
▢

1 ½
cups
pecans
toasted and chopped, plus extra for garnish
▢

2
ripe bananas
peeled and chopped

Frosting:

▢

16
tablespoons
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
▢

4
cups
powdered sugar
sifted
▢

16
ounces
cream cheese
cut into 8 pieces, softened
▢

1 ½
teaspoons
vanilla extract
▢

Pinch
of salt

Instructions

For the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans.
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in the bowl of your mixer.
Whisk the oil, eggs, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Add to the flour mixture, and beat on low until combined. Batter will be very thick, almost the consistency of taffy.
With mixer on low, add in the pineapple (with the juice), pecans, and bananas. Increase speed to medium until well combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto racks to cool completely.

For the Frosting

With a mixer at medium-high speed, beat the butter until creamy. Reduce mixer speed to low and slowly add powdered sugar. Increase speed and beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the cream cheese, one piece at a time, and beat until smooth. Beat in the vanilla and salt.
Spread about 1 1/2 cups of the frosting on one cake layer. Top with a second cake layer and another 1 1/2 cups frosting. Top with the final cake layer and spread the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.

We sincerely hope that you enjoy the process of baking and, more importantly, the pure delight of savoring this magnificent Hummingbird Cake. It truly is a special dessert that beautifully embodies the warmth, richness, and inviting charm of Southern culinary traditions. May it bring joy and delicious memories to your table!