Hummingbird Cake

Discover to bake a moist and flavorful hummingbird cake. This classic recipe combines banana, pineapple, and pecans. It is topped with a cream cheese frosting.

Baking the Perfect Hummingbird Cake

The hummingbird cake is a Southern classic. It is known for its unique combination of flavors and moist texture. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a delicious hummingbird cake. Let’s explore this wonderful hummingbird cake recipe.

Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Hummingbird Cake

Good ingredients are the key to a great hummingbird cake. Here is what you will need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
All-purpose flour	3 cups	For the cake base
Granulated sugar	2 cups	Sweetens the cake
Baking soda	1 teaspoon	Helps the cake rise
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	Adds a warm flavor
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	Enhances the flavors
Vegetable oil	1 1/2 cups	Adds moisture to the cake
Eggs	3 large	Binds the cake together
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	Adds flavor
Mashed ripe bananas	2 cups	Adds moisture and flavor
Crushed pineapple, drained	1 (8 ounce) can	Adds sweetness and flavor
Chopped pecans	1 cup	Adds texture and a nutty flavor
Cream cheese, softened	8 ounces	For the frosting
Unsalted butter, softened	1/2 cup	For the frosting
Powdered sugar	3 cups	For the frosting
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	For the frosting

Step-by-Step Directions for Baking Your Hummingbird Cake

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious hummingbird cake. The result is a moist and flavorful cake everyone will enjoy. Let’s get started:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix together vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined.
Stir in the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes cool, make the frosting. In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, and then add another layer on top. Repeat this with the remaining layers.
Frost the entire cake.

Expert Tips for the Best Hummingbird Cake

To make the perfect hummingbird cake, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Therefore, these suggestions will improve your hummingbird cake.

Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas add more flavor and moisture. Specifically, use bananas with brown spots for the best results.
Drain Pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple well. This will prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Thus, mix the ingredients until just combined.
Cool Cakes Completely: Ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting may melt.
Soften Cream Cheese and Butter: Make sure cream cheese and butter are completely soft before making the frosting.

Making Hummingbird Cake Ahead

This hummingbird cake is perfect for making ahead. This will make meal planning simpler. Accordingly, you can bake it a day or two before serving.

Bake the Layers: Bake the cake layers and let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
Make the Frosting: The frosting can also be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Assemble Later: Assemble and frost the cake a few hours before serving. The layers are easier to handle when cooled.

Hummingbird Cake Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Hummingbird cake is a rich and flavorful dessert. It pairs well with various beverages. Here are some pairing ideas:

Coffee or Tea: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea. It compliments the flavors well.
Milk: A glass of cold milk is a simple and classic choice.
Sweet Wine: A sweet dessert wine, such as sherry, can also be a good pairing.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries. It will add a touch of freshness.

Hummingbird Cake Recipe Variations

There are many ways to adjust this hummingbird cake recipe. Feel free to experiment. This will create a cake that suits your taste.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves. This will enhance the warm spices.
Cream Cheese Filling: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake layers. Then, add another layer of frosting all over the cake.
Coconut: Add shredded coconut to the batter. This will give it a tropical touch.
Nuts: Use walnuts instead of pecans, or use a mix.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce on top. This adds another flavor.

Understanding Hummingbird Cake Nutritional Information

Knowing the nutritional information is helpful. This way, you can make the right choices for you. Keep in mind that these values are just estimates. They can vary based on your specific ingredients.

Measurement	Values
Prep Time	30 minutes
Cooking Time	25 – 30 minutes
Total Time	1 hour (plus cooling)
Calories	approximately 500 kcal per serving

Delicious homemade hummingbird cake. — A moist and flavorful hummingbird cake ready to be served.

Higher in Calories: Hummingbird cake is high in calories. It contains fat and sugar.
Carbohydrates: The cake is high in carbohydrates from flour and sugar.
Fats: The oil and frosting make it a source of fat.
Moderate Proteins: Eggs and nuts add some protein.
Serving Size: The nutritional content will change according to your servings.

Storage Tips for Hummingbird Cake

Proper storage keeps your hummingbird cake fresh. Use these tips for best results:

Refrigeration: Store the frosted cake in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Hummingbird cake can also be frozen. Wrap each layer separately. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Serving: Let the cake sit at room temperature for a short time before serving. This will soften the frosting.

The History and Origin of Hummingbird Cake

The hummingbird cake has an interesting history. It is believed to have originated in Jamaica. From there it traveled to the United States. Let’s delve into the origins of this cake.

The Jamaican Roots

The hummingbird cake is said to have roots in Jamaica. It is believed it was brought to the US by tourists.

“Doctor Bird”: In Jamaica, the national bird is the “Doctor Bird”. It is also known as the hummingbird.
Name Origin: The hummingbird cake might be named for the colorfulness of the ingredients used, as well as for its tropical flavors.
Travel to America: Recipes for hummingbird cake began appearing in the US in the late 1970s.

Becoming a Southern Classic

The hummingbird cake became a Southern favorite. It quickly gained popularity in the United States.

Popularity: It has become a staple in many Southern bakeries and homes.
Variations: Today, there are different variations of the hummingbird cake.
Comfort Food: It is often seen as a comfort food due to its moist texture and warm flavors.

Exploring the Unique Flavors of Hummingbird Cake

The hummingbird cake has a very distinctive taste. Therefore, let’s look at the various ingredients that contribute to this flavor.

The Combination of Fruits

Bananas: Ripe bananas add sweetness and a creamy texture to the cake.
Pineapple: Crushed pineapple provides acidity and sweetness. Additionally, it contributes to the cake’s moisture.

The Nutty Element

Pecans: Chopped pecans add texture. They also enhance the cake’s nutty and slightly rich flavor.

The Warm Spices

Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives warmth and a comforting flavor. Furthermore, this compliments the other ingredients beautifully.

The Role of Each Ingredient in Hummingbird Cake

Each ingredient in the hummingbird cake plays a special role. Understanding these roles can help you bake the best cake. Let’s explore them one by one.

Flour and Structure

All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cake. It provides structure. Additionally, it combines well with other ingredients.
Baking Soda: This helps the cake rise. It creates the light and fluffy texture.

Sugar and Sweetness

Granulated Sugar: It sweetens the cake. It also contributes to the moistness.

Fats and Moisture

Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist. It also gives it a tender crumb.
Eggs: Eggs add richness and help bind the ingredients together.
Ripe Bananas: Provide natural sweetness. Also, they add extra moisture.

Flavor Enhancers

Vanilla Extract: This adds a warm flavor. It enhances the overall taste.
Ground Cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
Crushed Pineapple: This gives the cake a touch of sweetness. It also adds moisture and a bit of acidity.
Chopped Pecans: These add texture and a nutty flavor. They are an essential part of the cake.

Making the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

The cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing for the hummingbird cake. It is easy to make, but you must keep a few points in mind. Let’s see how to make the frosting.

Key Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter gives a smooth texture.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the frosting. It also helps achieve the right consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.

Frosting Techniques

Soften Cream Cheese and Butter: Make sure cream cheese and butter are fully soft before starting.
Cream Together: Cream the cream cheese and butter until they are smooth and creamy.
Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Add the powdered sugar slowly. Then, mix on low speed to avoid making a mess.
Mix until Smooth: Mix until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and there are no lumps.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a runny frosting.

Tips for Assembling and Decorating Your Hummingbird Cake

Once the cake layers and frosting are ready, here are some assembling and decoration tips.

Layering the Cake

Cool Cake Layers: Make sure the cake layers are completely cool.
Even Layers: If cake layers are not even, level them with a serrated knife.
Apply Frosting: Use a spatula to apply an even layer of frosting to the first layer. Place the second layer on top. Repeat the process until all layers are stacked.
Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting to the outside of the cake, then chill it for 15-20 minutes to set.

Frosting and Decorating

Frost the Cake: Apply the remaining frosting to the entire cake. You can create a smooth finish or use a swirling pattern.
Garnish: Decorate with extra pecans, if desired. You can also add a light dusting of cinnamon.

Serving and Enjoying Your Hummingbird

The final step is to serve and enjoy your homemade hummingbird . Here are some ideas to maximize the enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

Chill Before Serving: It’s best to serve cake chilled. The frosting will be set.
Slice Gently: Use a sharp knife to slice the cake, and be gentle.
Serve Fresh: Hummingbird cake tastes best when it is fresh. However, it also keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Pairing Options

Beverages: Serve with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a satisfying combination.
Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries compliments the flavors of the cake.
Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. This will enhance the dessert experience.

Hummingbird Frequently Asked Questions

Why do they call a hummingbird cake a hummingbird cake? It’s believed the name comes from the cake’s colorful and sweet ingredients, similar to the hummingbird.
What is hummingbird flavour? The “hummingbird flavor” is a blend of banana, pineapple, cinnamon, and pecans. This mix provides a moist, sweet, and slightly spicy taste.
What is the hummingbird cake at the Festival of the Arts? The hummingbird cake at the Epcot Festival of the Arts is a popular menu item. It is usually a smaller version of the classic cake.
Can you make a hummingbird cake without pineapple? While traditional hummingbird cake includes pineapple, you can omit it. However, it will alter the taste and texture.