We’ve discovered that the most irresistible desserts often come with the most captivating names, and hummingbird cake is no exception. This Southern showstopper earned its whimsical moniker because it’s so sweet it attracts hummingbirds – though we suspect it’ll draw every dessert lover in your neighborhood too.
Born in Jamaica and perfected in the American South, this moist three-layer masterpiece combines the tropical flavors of banana and pineapple with warm cinnamon and crunchy pecans. What makes this cake truly special isn’t just its incredible taste, but how it stays perfectly moist for days thanks to its fruit-forward recipe.
Ingredients
Creating this beloved Southern dessert requires fresh quality ingredients that work together to deliver the signature moist texture and tropical flavors. We’ve organized our ingredient list by component to make preparation seamless.
For the Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1¼ cups vegetable oil
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple with juice
- 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4-5 medium bananas)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 pound powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans for garnish
Equipment Needed
Assembling our hummingbird cake requires exact tools to ensure perfect results. We recommend gathering all equipment before starting to create a smooth baking experience.
Essential Baking Equipment:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans for creating the classic layered structure
- Stand mixer or hand mixer for achieving proper batter consistency
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients effectively
- Medium mixing bowl for preparing the cream cheese frosting
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
- Rubber spatula for folding ingredients without overmixing
- Wire whisk for blending dry ingredients evenly
Preparation Tools:
- Sharp knife for chopping pecans and preparing bananas
- Cutting board designated for fruit preparation
- Can opener for accessing crushed pineapple
- Fine mesh strainer for draining pineapple juice if needed
- Potato masher or fork for creating smooth mashed bananas
Finishing Equipment:
- Wire cooling racks for proper cake layer cooling
- Offset spatula for smooth frosting application
- Cake stand or serving plate for elegant presentation
- Parchment paper for lining cake pans and preventing sticking
Our stand mixer proves invaluable for this recipe since it handles the thick batter containing fruit and nuts with ease. The two 9-inch round pans create the perfect proportion for our three-layer masterpiece when we split one layer horizontally. Quality measuring tools ensure our fruit-to-flour ratio remains consistent for that signature moist texture hummingbird cake delivers.
Instructions
With our ingredients measured and equipment ready, we can begin creating this beloved Southern dessert. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfect results every time.
Prep the Pans and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting any mixing. Grease three 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. Line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. This extra step ensures our cake layers will release cleanly from the pans. If you prefer a two-layer cake, use only two pans and adjust accordingly.
Make the Cake Batter
Whisk together all dry ingredients in a large bowl: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth with small chunks remaining. Add eggs, vegetable oil, crushed pineapple with its juice, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas, whisking until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped toasted pecans with a rubber spatula. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cake’s tender texture.
Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans using a kitchen scale for accuracy. Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center. The cakes are ready when the toothpick comes out clean and the tops are golden brown. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans on wire racks for 15 to 20 minutes. Turn out onto cooling racks and cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. The frosting should hold its shape when piped but spread easily. Use immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
Assemble the Hummingbird Cake
Trim the tops of cooled cake layers with a sharp knife if needed to create even surfaces. Place the first layer on your serving plate and spread frosting evenly over the top. Add the second layer and repeat with frosting. Top with the third layer and frost the entire cake, starting with the top and working down the sides. Garnish with remaining toasted pecans around the edges and on top. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures our hummingbird cake maintains its signature moistness and delicious flavor for days after baking. We recommend following these exact guidelines based on whether you’re storing the assembled cake or individual components.
Room Temperature Storage
Unassembled cake layers can rest safely at room temperature for up to one day when stored in airtight containers. Once we assemble the cake with cream cheese frosting, refrigeration becomes essential due to the dairy content requiring consistent cool temperatures.
Refrigerated Storage
Assembled hummingbird cakes perform best when stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Our testing shows properly stored cakes maintain optimal texture and flavor for approximately three days under these conditions.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature (unassembled) | 1 day | Airtight container |
| Refrigerated (assembled) | 3 days | Airtight container |
| Frozen (wrapped) | 6 months | Freezer-safe wrapping |
Freezer Storage
Long-term preservation works excellently through freezing for up to six months when cakes are well wrapped. We suggest unwrapping frozen cakes while still frozen to prevent damage to the delicate cream cheese frosting during thawing.
Component Storage Tips
Individual cake layers store effectively in airtight containers at room temperature for one day or can be frozen if assembly is delayed. Cream cheese frosting requires refrigerated storage in airtight containers and should return to room temperature before application for optimal spreading consistency.
Brown sugar caramel sauce keeps fresh in refrigerated storage for up to one week when properly covered.
Moisture Preservation Techniques
Preventing dryness requires covering cakes thoroughly with plastic wrap or storing in completely sealed airtight containers. Should our cake become slightly dry during storage, brushing the layers lightly with milk effectively restores moisture before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead transforms our hummingbird cake preparation from a stressful last-minute scramble into a smooth and organized process. We can break down the cake making into manageable stages that actually improve the final result.
Baking the Cake Layers in Advance
We recommend baking our cake layers up to 24 hours before assembly. The moist banana and pineapple base actually develops deeper flavors overnight. Store the completely cooled layers in airtight containers at room temperature to maintain their signature moisture. For longer storage we can wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting
Our cream cheese frosting benefits from advance preparation. We can make it a full day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. The key is allowing the frosting to return to room temperature for about 30 minutes before assembly. This ensures smooth spreading and prevents the frosting from tearing our delicate cake layers.
Strategic Assembly Timing
We find that assembling the cake just before serving produces the best results. The cream cheese frosting maintains its texture and the cake layers stay perfectly moist. But when we need to assemble early we can complete the cake up to 3 days in advance. Store the assembled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness.
Moisture Preservation Techniques
Should our cake become slightly dry during storage we can brush each layer lightly with milk before frosting. This technique restores moisture without compromising the cake’s structural integrity. The natural fruit content in our hummingbird cake provides excellent moisture retention compared to traditional layer cakes.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Unfrosted layers at room temperature | 24 hours | Airtight containers |
| Unfrosted layers refrigerated | 3 days | Tightly wrapped |
| Assembled cake refrigerated | 3 days | Airtight container |
| Frosting refrigerated | 1 day | Covered bowl |
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving hummingbird cake in its traditional three-layer format to showcase the beautiful cream cheese frosting between each moist layer. The classic presentation allows guests to appreciate the cake’s impressive height while ensuring each slice delivers the perfect balance of banana, pineapple, and pecan flavors.
Classic Layer Cake Presentation
Our preferred method involves layering the cake with generous amounts of cream cheese frosting between each tier. We suggest using an offset spatula to create smooth, even layers that highlight the contrast between the golden cake and pristine white frosting. Top the assembled cake with chopped pecans pressed gently into the frosting for an elegant finish that hints at the nutty flavors within.
Bar Version Alternative
For casual gatherings, we transform this beloved dessert into convenient bars that maintain all the original flavors. Cut the cake into rectangular portions and top each piece with pineapple cream cheese frosting for an extra tropical twist. We recommend sprinkling toasted pecans over the bars to add a delightful crunch that complements the soft, moist texture.
Enhanced Flavor Additions
We elevate the serving experience by drizzling brown sugar caramel sauce over individual slices just before plating. This addition creates a rich, buttery complement to the fruit flavors while adding visual appeal with its golden cascade. The caramel sauce pairs exceptionally well with the cream cheese frosting, creating layers of sweetness that enhance rather than overpower the cake’s natural flavors.
Serving Temperature and Timing
We serve hummingbird cake at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and the frosting to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. Remove refrigerated cake 30 minutes before serving to ensure optimal texture and taste. Each slice should showcase the moist crumb structure that makes this dessert so memorable, with visible pieces of pineapple and pecans distributed throughout.
Recipe Variations
We love how versatile this Southern classic can be adapted to suit different occasions and dietary needs. These variations maintain the beloved banana and pineapple flavor combination that makes hummingbird cake so special.
Hummingbird Cupcakes
Transform our traditional recipe into individual servings by baking the batter in muffin tins. We recommend filling standard cupcake liners about two-thirds full to prevent overflow during baking. Bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
The cupcakes maintain the same moist texture as the layer cake thanks to the banana and pineapple combination. We top each cupcake with generous swirls of cream cheese frosting using a piping bag for professional-looking results. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or toasted coconut for added texture and visual appeal.
This format works perfectly for parties and gatherings where individual portions are preferred. Each cupcake delivers the full hummingbird cake experience in a convenient handheld format.
Gluten-Free Version
Replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum as a binding agent. We recommend using gluten-free cake flour when available to maintain the tender crumb structure that makes this cake special.
The beauty of this variation lies in how naturally gluten-free many ingredients already are. Bananas, pineapple, pecans, and all frosting components remain unchanged, preserving the authentic flavor profile. We suggest measuring the gluten-free flour by weight rather than volume for the most consistent results.
Follow the same mixing and baking instructions as the traditional recipe. The moist nature of hummingbird cake works particularly well with gluten-free flour blends, as the fruit content helps compensate for any texture differences. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting, as gluten-free cakes can be more delicate when warm.
Conclusion
We’ve explored every aspect of creating the perfect hummingbird cake from gathering quality ingredients to mastering storage techniques. This Southern treasure proves that the best desserts combine simplicity with exceptional flavor creating a moist and delicious cake that’ll impress any gathering.
Whether you’re preparing the traditional three-layer version or experimenting with cupcakes and gluten-free alternatives the key lies in balancing those signature banana and pineapple flavors. The make-ahead tips and proper storage methods we’ve shared ensure your cake stays fresh and flavorful for days.
Now you’re equipped with everything needed to create this beloved dessert that’s captured hearts across the South and beyond. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and fruit as you create your own hummingbird cake masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes hummingbird cake so moist?
Hummingbird cake stays incredibly moist due to its fruit-based ingredients, particularly mashed bananas and crushed pineapple. These fruits naturally retain moisture and continue to keep the cake tender for days after baking. The combination of these wet ingredients creates the cake’s signature texture that sets it apart from traditional layer cakes.
How long can I store hummingbird cake?
Unassembled cake layers can be stored at room temperature for up to one day in airtight containers. Once assembled with cream cheese frosting, the cake should be refrigerated and will stay fresh for about three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to six months when properly wrapped.
Can I make hummingbird cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance, which actually helps develop deeper flavors. Store cooled layers in airtight containers at room temperature or wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting can also be made a day ahead and brought to room temperature before assembly.
What equipment do I need to make hummingbird cake?
Essential equipment includes two 9-inch round cake pans, a stand or hand mixer, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, and a rubber spatula. You’ll also need preparation tools like a sharp knife, cutting board, can opener, and wire cooling racks. An offset spatula and cake stand help with professional presentation.
Can I make hummingbird cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can create a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. This adaptation preserves the cake’s tender crumb structure while maintaining the beloved banana and pineapple flavors that make hummingbird cake so special.
What’s the best way to serve hummingbird cake?
Serve hummingbird cake at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. If the cake has been refrigerated, remove it 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop. The traditional three-layer presentation showcases the cream cheese frosting beautifully, topped with chopped pecans for an elegant finish.
Why is it called hummingbird cake?
Hummingbird cake gets its name from its incredible sweetness that’s said to attract hummingbirds, just like the nectar these tiny birds love. This Southern dessert earned its charming name because of the irresistible combination of sweet fruits and spices that make it as appealing as a hummingbird’s favorite treats.
Can I make hummingbird cupcakes instead?
Yes! Hummingbird cupcakes are a perfect alternative that maintains the same moist texture and flavor profile as the traditional cake. They’re ideal for individual servings at gatherings and parties, offering the same delicious banana-pineapple combination in a more portable format while preserving all the original recipe’s beloved characteristics.
