Hummingbird Cake with a Soft Classic Crumb

Created on October 27th, 2026 at 07:30 am

Introduction: Hummingbird Cake

For those who adore the rich, sweet flavors of Southern desserts, the Hummingbird Cake is a must-try classic. This banana pineapple cake is a celebration of traditional baking, offering a delightful combination of fruity notes and creamy textures. Originating in the South, this cake has gained a loyal following for its moist crumb and luscious cream cheese frosting.

The Origins of Hummingbird Cake

The Hummingbird Cake is a Southern dessert that has been cherished for decades. It is believed to have originated in Jamaica, where it was known as the Doctor Bird Cake, named after the island’s national bird. The cake was introduced to the Southern United States in the late 1960s and quickly became a beloved classic cake recipe, renowned for its dense texture and tropical flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hummingbird Cake recipe is perfect for those who love combining the natural sweetness of bananas and pineapple with a soft, classic crumb. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully. Whether you’re a fan of banana pineapple cake or exploring traditional baking for the first time, this recipe will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake

To create the perfect Hummingbird Cake, you’ll need a selection of essential ingredients. These include ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and a blend of spices that give the cake its distinctive flavor. The cream cheese frosting requires cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar for a smooth, creamy finish.

Choosing the Right Pineapple and Bananas

For the best results, select ripe bananas that are slightly speckled, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture. When it comes to pineapple, canned crushed pineapple works well, but ensure it’s thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture in the cake batter.

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Hummingbird Cake involves attention to detail and a few expert tips. These insights will help you achieve a soft, moist crumb and a beautifully frosted cake.

• Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth frosting.
• Fold the dry and wet ingredients gently to avoid overmixing.
• Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

The most important tip is to taste your batter before baking. Adjust the spice and sweetness levels to suit your personal preference, ensuring the cake meets your taste expectations.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients and set aside. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients, including mashed bananas and crushed pineapple. Gradually combine the dry and wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Baking and Cooling the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting and Decorating Your Cake

Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Beverages

The Hummingbird Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Its tropical flavors also complement lighter beverages like a refreshing iced tea or lemonade. For a more indulgent experience, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Occasions for Hummingbird Cake

This cake is a show-stopping dessert for celebrations such as birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings. Its impressive appearance and delightful flavors make it a wonderful choice for any special occasion.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrients

Each slice of Hummingbird Cake contains approximately 320 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The cake provides a sweet treat that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Allergen Information

Due to its ingredients, this cake contains common allergens such as gluten, eggs, and dairy. Ensure that all guests are aware of these allergens before serving.

Hummingbird Cake

Grace Ovendale

A classic Southern dessert, Hummingbird Cake combines ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and a delightful blend of spices for a moist and flavorful cake topped with creamy cream cheese frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 slices

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
• 1 electric mixer
• 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas about 2 large bananas
• 1 cup crushed pineapple well-drained

Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
• In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and crushed pineapple.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

• Once the cakes are completely cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Spread a generous layer of frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
• Decorate the cake as desired and serve it sliced. Enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Southern dessert.

Storage

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Use a light hand when folding in the dry ingredients to avoid a dense cake.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute pecans for walnuts if desired. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan cream cheese and butter alternative.
How to Serve: This cake is best served chilled with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Freshness: Keep the cake refrigerated to maintain its freshness and prevent the cream cheese frosting from spoiling.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap until ready to frost.

Keyword banana pineapple cake, Hummingbird Cake, Southern dessert

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