Hummingbird Cake Recipe 🌸🍌
This delightful Hummingbird Cake is a tropical-inspired treat that combines ripe bananas, sweet pineapple, and a touch of cinnamon, all topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
For the Cake:
- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 100 g (1/2 cup) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 50 g (1/2 cup) chopped pecans or walnuts
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 230 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 450 g (4 cups) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Fresh pineapple or banana slices
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until combined.
- Add vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in mashed bananas and crushed pineapple.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 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, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then beat on medium speed until fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts, and fresh pineapple or banana slices, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Hummingbird Cake
- Use Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots work best for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Drain Pineapple Thoroughly: Excess liquid can make the batter too wet.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Chill Frosting if Needed: If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! Bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them covered at room temperature. Frost and assemble on the day of serving.
2. Can I substitute nuts or leave them out?
Absolutely. You can omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free option.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate the cake for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
Common Mistakes and Solutions
Mistake: Cake sinks in the middle.
Solution: Ensure your baking soda is fresh, and avoid opening the oven door during baking.
Mistake: Frosting is too runny.
Solution: Add more powdered sugar or chill the frosting before spreading.
Mistake: Cake is dry.
Solution: Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off.
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