Cakes

Hummingbird Cake

Name: Hummingbird Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup crushed pineapple; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

By Kaia Jardine · June 19, 2026 · Cakes

Prep20 min

Cook35 min

Total75 min

Serves12

I still remember the first time I made a Hummingbird Cake - the combination of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm spices was love at first bite. This classic Southern dessert is a staple of potlucks and family gatherings, and for good reason: it's incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

As a home cook, I've always been drawn to recipes that are both delicious and accessible. Hummingbird Cake checks all the boxes: it's made with common ingredients, requires no special equipment, and can be mixed together in under 30 minutes.

But what really sets Hummingbird Cake apart is its unique flavor profile. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and spices creates a moist and aromatic cake that's perfect for springtime gatherings or summer potlucks. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to customize - try adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to give it your own special twist.

In this recipe, we'll walk through the steps to make a classic Hummingbird Cake from scratch. From preparing the ingredients to assembling the cake, we'll cover it all. So grab your mixing bowls and let's get started!

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the magic of Hummingbird Cake for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires no special equipment
The combination of bananas, pineapple, and spices creates a unique and delicious flavor profile
The cake is moist and aromatic, making it perfect for springtime gatherings or summer potlucks
It's incredibly easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips
The recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike
It's a great way to use up ripe bananas and other ingredients you may have on hand
The cake is perfect for serving at brunch, breakfast, or as a snack

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Hummingbird Cake is in the balance of ingredients. By using a combination of white and brown sugar, we create a rich and caramel-like flavor that's balanced by the brightness of the pineapple and the warmth of the spices.

Another important factor is the use of room-temperature ingredients. By making sure our eggs, butter, and milk are all at room temperature, we can ensure that our cake mixes together smoothly and evenly, resulting in a tender and moist crumb.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your mix-ins. Chopped nuts, dried fruit, and even a handful of chocolate chips can all add unique texture and flavor to your Hummingbird Cake. Just be sure to fold them in gently, so you don't overmix the batter.

By following these simple tips and techniques, you'll be well on your way to making a Hummingbird Cake that's sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious results!

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a Hummingbird Cake, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a combination of common pantry staples, such as flour, sugar, and spices, as well as some fresh ingredients like bananas and pineapple.

Be sure to choose ripe bananas for the best flavor, and don't be afraid to get creative with your mix-ins. Chopped nuts, dried fruit, and even a handful of chocolate chips can all add unique texture and flavor to your Hummingbird Cake.

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour provides the structure and texture for our cake. Make sure to sift it before using to ensure it's well aerated and evenly mixed.
1 teaspoon baking sodaBaking soda helps our cake to rise and gives it a light, tender texture. Make sure to use fresh baking soda for the best results.
1 teaspoon saltA pinch of salt enhances the flavors in our cake and helps to balance the sweetness. Use a fine, flaky salt for the best results.
1 cup granulated sugarGranulated sugar adds sweetness and tenderness to our cake. Make sure to use fresh, white sugar for the best flavor.
1/2 cup brown sugarBrown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to our cake. Use a light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softenedUnsalted butter adds moisture and tenderness to our cake. Make sure to use room-temperature butter for the best results.
2 large eggs, at room temperatureEggs provide moisture, richness, and structure to our cake. Make sure to use room-temperature eggs for the best results.
2 teaspoons vanilla extractVanilla extract adds a sweet, creamy flavor to our cake. Use a high-quality extract for the best results.
2 ripe bananas, mashedRipe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture to our cake. Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
1 cup crushed pineappleCrushed pineapple adds a sweet, tropical flavor to our cake. Use a fresh or canned pineapple, depending on your preference.
1/2 cup chopped pecansChopped pecans add a nice texture and flavor to our cake. Use a fresh or toasted pecan, depending on your preference.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlHand mixer or whiskMeasuring cups and spoons9x13 inch baking dishInstant-read thermometerRubber spatula

How to Make Hummingbird Cake

1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Make sure to use an oven thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3
In another large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until light and fluffy.
4
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5
Mash in the ripe bananas and mix until well combined.
6
Stir in the crushed pineapple and chopped pecans.
7
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
8
Pour the batter into a 9x13 inch baking dish and smooth the top.
9
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 190°F (88°C).
10
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11
Once the cake is cool, you can frost and decorate it as desired. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Make sure to use room-temperature ingredients for the best results.
Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
If using chopped nuts, make sure to toast them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting and decorating.
Experiment with different mix-ins, such as dried fruit or chocolate chips, to create a unique flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using cold ingredients, which can result in a dense cake.
Overmixing the batter, which can result in a tough cake.
Not using a high-quality vanilla extract, which can affect the flavor.
Not toasting chopped nuts, which can result in a less flavorful cake.
Not letting the cake cool completely before frosting and decorating, which can result in a messy and uneven cake.
Not using an oven thermometer, which can result in an incorrectly baked cake.

Variations and Substitutions

Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate Hummingbird Cake.
Use chopped walnuts or hazelnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra boost of spice.
Use a combination of granulated and brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Add a cup of diced apples or peaches to the batter for added moisture and flavor.
Make individual cupcakes instead of a large cake for a fun and easy dessert.

What to Serve With Hummingbird Cake

Hummingbird Cake is perfect for serving at brunch, breakfast, or as a snack. Try pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea, or a glass of cold milk.

You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special treat. Experiment with different toppings, such as chopped nuts or shredded coconut, to create a unique flavor profile.

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice creamPair with a cup of coffee or teaTop with chopped nuts or shredded coconutServe with a dollop of whipped creamMake individual cupcakes for a fun and easy dessertServe at brunch, breakfast, or as a snack

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Hummingbird Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months.

To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to serve, thaw the cake at room temperature or reheat it in the microwave or oven.

Make sure to store the cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. You can also make the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

When reheating the cake, make sure to use a low temperature and a short cooking time to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick and easy dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Hummingbird Cake?

Hummingbird Cake is a classic Southern dessert that originated in the United States. The exact origin is unknown, but it's believed to have been created in the 1970s or 1980s.

What type of flour is best for Hummingbird Cake?

All-purpose flour is the best type of flour to use for Hummingbird Cake. It provides the structure and texture needed for the cake to rise and hold its shape.

Can I use frozen pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen pineapple instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

To prevent the cake from drying out, make sure to store it in an airtight container and keep it away from direct sunlight. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in.

Can I make individual cupcakes instead of a large cake?

Yes, you can make individual cupcakes instead of a large cake. Just divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

What is the best way to frost and decorate the cake?

The best way to frost and decorate the cake is to use a high-quality cream cheese frosting and decorate with chopped nuts or shredded coconut. You can also use a simple powdered sugar glaze for a more rustic look.

Can I make the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

How do I reheat the cake without drying it out?

To reheat the cake without drying it out, make sure to use a low temperature and a short cooking time. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or reheat the entire cake in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes.

The Full Recipe

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