Hummingbird Cake Recipe: A Southern Classic with a Tropical Twist

Introduction

Hummingbird Cake is a classic Southern dessert that has gained popularity all over the world. This cake is known for its moist and tender crumb, tropical flavors, and cream cheese frosting. The cake is typically made with bananas, pineapple, and pecans, and is often referred to as a “banana-pineapple cake.” In this recipe, we will show you how to make the classic cake with a tropical twist.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add eggs, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in the crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, and chopped pecans.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and cool completely on wire racks.
8. Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until creamy.
9. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
10. Spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.
11. Garnish with pecans and pineapple chunks, if desired.
12. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Vegan Hummingbird Cake: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese and butter for the frosting.
• Gluten-Free Hummingbird Cake: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add 1 tsp xanthan gum.
• Mini Hummingbird Cakes: Bake the batter in a muffin pan instead of cake pans to create mini cakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Chocolate Hummingbird Cake: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and reduce the flour to 2 3/4 cups.

Conclusion

Hummingbird Cake is a delicious and popular cake that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe adds a tropical twist to the classic Southern dessert, making it even more flavorful and exciting. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Southern cuisine or just looking for a new cake recipe to try, Hummingbird Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your apron and get baking!

FAQ

What is a Hummingbird Cake?

Hummingbird Cake is a moist, dense, and flavorful cake made with bananas, pineapple, and pecans, and is typically topped with cream cheese frosting.

Can I substitute the pecans with a different type of nut?

Yes, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I make the cake without pineapple?

Yes, you can make the cake without pineapple, but it will change the flavor and texture of the cake.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple instead of fresh, but be sure to drain it well before adding it to the batter.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can use a different type of frosting if you prefer. However, cream cheese frosting is the traditional topping for Hummingbird Cake.

Can I make the cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.

Can I make the cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can make the cake dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and cream cheese in the frosting.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, you can add chocolate chips to the batter if you like. It will add a delicious chocolate flavor to the cake.