Nothing quite warms the heart and delights the taste buds like a slice of Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake. This nostalgic recipe is a heavenly combination of banana, pineapple, and warm spices, creating a moist and flavorful cake that is simply irresistible. Did you know that the Hummingbird Cake originated in the Caribbean and was brought to the southern United States? It quickly became a staple in family kitchens, and for good reason! With its crumbly texture and tropical sweetness, it’s the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings.
If you’re a fan of delicious cakes like my popular carrot cake, you’ll surely love the comforting flavors of this Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake. Today, I’m excited to guide you through this delightful recipe that’s not just special for its taste but is also incredibly easy to prepare at home. Let’s dive into the details and discover why this cake deserves a spot in your baking repertoire!
What is Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake?
So what’s with the name “Hummingbird Cake”? Some say it’s named because it’s as sweet as nectar, tempting everyone to keep coming back for more—like the little birds! Others believe it’s a nod to the cake’s tropical origins. Either way, you can’t argue with the saying that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and a slice of this delightful cake is sure to win over anyone’s affections. Perfect for family gatherings, this cake will become the star of your dessert table. So why not gather your loved ones and whip up this irresistibly sweet, spiced, and fruity cake together?
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake
There are three reasons you’ll absolutely adore this Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake. First, the moist and flavorful cake is the star of the show, packed with bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm spices that create a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Second, baking at home is not only cost-effective, but it also allows you to create delightful memories with your family. Why spend on store-bought cakes when you can craft a memorable experience in your own kitchen? Lastly, the cake is easily customizable with various toppings! Whether you prefer a simple cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped nuts, the choice is yours to make this cake uniquely yours.
If you’ve enjoyed a refreshing tropical dessert such as a coconut cake, you’re in for a similar and fulfilling experience with this Hummingbird Cake. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this cake shine!
How to Make Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake
Quick Overview
Making Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake is easier than you think! Featuring a moist, tender crumb and layers of incredible flavor, this cake is an amazing dessert that will impress your friends and family. You’ll love how simply combining fresh fruits and spices leads to such a delightful result. Preparation time is only about 20 minutes, followed by a baking time of 30 to 35 minutes, giving you the perfect excuse to fill your house with a warm, inviting aroma.
Key Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create your Hummingbird Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 medium bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for topping)
Feel free to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs—this recipe is very accommodating!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cake tender.
- Add Nuts: If you’re using chopped pecans or walnuts, gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost and Serve: Once cooled, frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting or keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Top Tips for Perfecting Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake
- Use Ripe Fruit: For optimal flavor, make sure your bananas are well-ripened—this enhances the natural sweetness and moisture of the cake.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Be cautious not to over-mix the batter, as it may lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, feel free to reduce the sugar content slightly. The natural sugars from bananas and pineapple add great flavor already!
- Storage Substitutions: For a Halal-friendly substitution, use margarine or coconut oil in place of butter in your frosting.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the cakes as they bake; every oven varies. A clear toothpick test will guide you to perfect doneness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Your Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate in the same container for up to a week. To freeze for later enjoyment, wrap the cooled cakes in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or if you’re in a hurry, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it back to its delightful, moist texture!
Now that you have all the tips and tricks at your disposal, it’s time to make your very own Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake! Happy baking!
Old-Fashioned Hummingbird Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently with a spatula until just combined, avoiding over-mixing.
- If using, gently fold the chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting or dust with powdered sugar.
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