Hummingbird Cake Recipe Pineapple Banana Layers With Pecan Praline

I’ve perfected this hummingbird cake recipe over many years, and I’m thrilled to share my insights with you. The aroma of ripe bananas and sweet pineapple baking, mingled with warm spices, promises a truly comforting dessert. Our easy hummingbird cake recipe with its tropical pineapple banana layers and crunchy pecan praline is the perfect solution for satisfying sweet cravings. This delightful classic brings Southern charm to your table without complicated steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks preparing for family gatherings. You’ll master creating the ultimate hummingbird cake, from simple ingredients to smart shortcuts and delicious variations.

Ingredient Guide for Your Hummingbird Cake

For your ideal hummingbird cake, selecting quality ingredients is key. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the desired taste and texture.

• Flour (all-purpose): The structure for a tender crumb. (2 ½ cups / 300g)
• Sugar (granulated, brown): Sweetness and moisture. (1 ¾ cups granulated / 350g, ½ cup brown / 100g)
• Vegetable oil: For ultimate moistness. (¾ cup / 180ml)
• Eggs (large): Binder and richness. (3 large)
• Ripe bananas (mashed): Natural sweetness and moisture. (1 ½ cups, about 3 large) I’ve found that using very ripe, spotty bananas is non-negotiable for the best natural sweetness and moist texture in this hummingbird cake recipe.
• Crushed pineapple (undrained): Tangy flavor and moisture. (1 (20 oz / 567g) can)
• Pecans (chopped): Essential for flavor and texture in the cake and praline. (1 cup / 110g for cake, ½ cup / 55g for praline) (or walnuts if that’s what you have on hand)
• Baking soda, salt, cinnamon: Leavening, balance, and warmth. (1 tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon)
• Cream cheese (softened): Base for the rich frosting. (8 oz / 226g block)
• Butter (softened): For the frosting’s creamy texture. (½ cup, 1 stick / 113g unsalted butter) (or salted, just reduce added salt in cake slightly)
• Powdered sugar: Sweetness and consistency for frosting. (3 ½ – 4 cups / 420-480g)
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors. (2 tsp)

Health-forward versions: Consider organic bananas, pineapple, and pecans for purer flavor. For a leaner option, you might reduce sugar slightly. A gluten-free flour blend works well for dietary needs; ensure it’s a 1:1 baking blend for your hummingbird cake recipe. Dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives are also an option for a vegan hummingbird cake, adjusting frosting consistency as needed.

Practical substitutions for common diets: For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with toasted coconut flakes, though this alters the flavor profile. For low-sugar options, use a baking-specific sugar substitute blend, noting texture changes may occur.

Freshness/seasonality notes: Use very ripe, spotty bananas for best flavor and sweetness. Canned crushed pineapple is standard and convenient here; no need for fresh. Ensure pecans are fresh and not rancid. All pantry staples should be well-stored for optimal results.

Cooking Process Simplified for Your Hummingbird Cake

Follow these steps closely for a moist, flavorful cake every time.

1. Prep Oven & Pans (10 min): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Ensure an even coating; this prevents sticking and promotes beautiful, golden sides.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients (5 min): In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. The mixture should smell subtly spiced and be free of lumps.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients (5 min): In a separate bowl, whisk oil, eggs, mashed bananas, and undrained crushed pineapple until just combined. The mixture will be chunky from the fruit, and have a distinct tropical aroma.
4. Combine Wet & Dry (2 min): Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until moistened; do not overmix, as a few lumps are perfectly fine. Fold in chopped pecans. The batter will be thick, fragrant, and overtly fruity.
5. Bake Cakes (30-35 min): Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Cakes will be golden brown, spring back to the touch, and fill your kitchen with a sweet, spiced scent. If it looks dry, gently open the oven door and quickly check the skewer again; sometimes a few more minutes are needed.
6. Cool & Make Praline (45 min): Let cakes cool in pans for 10-15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely (about 30 minutes). While cooling, prepare the pecan praline: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter with ¼ cup brown sugar and 1 tbsp milk. Bring to a simmer, then stir in ½ cup chopped pecans. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened and glossy. Spread thinly on parchment paper to cool and harden. This stovetop praline method is quick and yields excellent crunch.
7. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting (10 min): In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract. The frosting should be spreadable but firm enough to hold its shape, with a velvety texture.
8. Assemble Cake (15 min): Once cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. Top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake. Gently press cooled, crushed pecan praline around the sides or sprinkle on top, adding a final elegant touch to your hummingbird cake.

Variations for cooking equipment: The stovetop method for pecan praline detailed above is efficient. For baking, ensure your oven is accurately calibrated for consistent results.

Quick fixes for common mistakes: Cake too dense? This typically means you overmixed the batter for your hummingbird cake; remember to stir just until combined. If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit of milk or cream gradually.

Ideal Occasions to Serve This Hummingbird Cake Recipe

This delightful hummingbird cake recipe is perfect for various occasions, from everyday family meals to grand celebrations.

• Situations:
  • Weeknight meals: A delightful surprise to make any ordinary evening special.
  • Holidays: A festive centerpiece for Easter or Mother’s Day.
  • Family gatherings: Always a crowd-pleaser for potlucks or dessert tables.
• Creative ways to repurpose leftovers:
  • Hummingbird cake trifle: Layer crumbled cake with extra frosting and fresh fruit.
  • Cake pops: Mix crumbled cake with frosting, roll into balls, and dip in white chocolate.
  • Ice cream topping: Warm a slice slightly and serve over vanilla bean ice cream.
• Storage/reheating with best containers and shelf-life tips:

  Store leftover hummingbird cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices, well-wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve at room temperature.

Health & Lifestyle Benefits of Hummingbird Cake

Beyond its delicious taste, this hummingbird cake recipe offers some surprising health and lifestyle benefits.

• Health & Lifestyle Benefits:
  • Fruit-filled goodness: Packed with bananas and pineapple, offering natural sweetness and fiber.
  • Balanced energy: Provides a mix of carbs, fats, and some protein, offering sustained energy in moderation.
  • Heart-healthy fats: Pecans contribute beneficial monounsaturated fats.
• Natural keyword integration:

  While a celebratory dessert, this hummingbird cake recipe can fit into healthier baking efforts by focusing on quality ingredients. Explore our family dessert ideas that balance indulgence and nutrition effectively.

• Which diets it supports:
  • Can be adapted for gluten-free diets using 1:1 baking flour blends.
  • Can be adapted for nut-free diets by omitting or substituting pecans.

Family, Budget & Meal Prep Advantages

This hummingbird cake recipe offers excellent advantages for family meal planning, budget, and convenience.

• Prep and cook time breakdown:
  • Prep time: Approximately 30 minutes.
  • Cook time: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
  • Cooling/Assembly: Approximately 1 hour.
• Approximate cost per serving and savings tips:
  • Cost-effective: Often less expensive than store-bought specialty cakes.
  • Savings tips: Buy bananas and pecans in bulk when on sale; utilize budget-friendly canned pineapple.
• Weekly meal prep strategies:
  • Make ahead: Prepare the pecan praline and cream cheese frosting a day in advance.
  • Freeze components: Bake cake layers ahead, wrap tightly, freeze; thaw and assemble later.

Ingredient Shopping & Online Options

Sourcing ingredients for this hummingbird cake recipe is straightforward, with options for various preferences.

• Where to source your hummingbird cake ingredients:
  • Local grocery stores: Most ingredients are readily available.
  • Organic groceries: For organic bananas, pineapple, and pecans.
  • Online retailers: For specialty flours or bulk pecans.
• Fresh vs frozen vs packaged considerations:
  • Fresh bananas are key for flavor and moisture.
  • Canned crushed pineapple is preferred for consistency and ease.
  • Quality pecans make a difference in flavor and crunch for this hummingbird cake recipe.
• Tie in terms:

  Consider grocery delivery for convenience, especially when stocking up on organic food boxes or utilizing bulk savings for baking staples.

Expert Adjustments & Practical Tips

Elevate your hummingbird cake recipe with these simple expert adjustments and practical tips.

• Cooking upgrades for richer flavor or better texture:
  • Toast pecans lightly before adding for deeper flavor.
  • Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature for smoother batter and frosting.
  • Don’t open the oven door too early to prevent cake sinking.
• Seasoning adjustments:
  • Kid-friendly: Reduce cinnamon slightly or omit for a milder flavor.
  • Spice lovers: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for extra warmth.
• Allergy-friendly modifications:
  • Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk in praline and dairy-free cream cheese/butter.
  • Nut-free: Replace pecans with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch, or omit.

FAQs

Is this hummingbird cake recipe good for special occasions?

Absolutely! This hummingbird cake with its pineapple banana layers and pecan praline makes a stunning dessert. It’s perfect for any special celebration or family gathering, offering a memorable treat.

What makes hummingbird cake so moist?

The combination of oil, very ripe mashed bananas, and undrained crushed pineapple ensures its incredible moistness. These ingredients create a tender crumb that stays fresh and delicious for days.

Can I make hummingbird cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Cake layers can be baked a day or two in advance, stored wrapped. Frosting can also be made ahead. I often prepare components early; it simplifies busy weeknights.

How do I store hummingbird cake leftovers safely?

Store leftover hummingbird cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices, well-wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and serve at room temperature.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this hummingbird cake recipe?

While fresh is an option, canned crushed pineapple (undrained) is typically recommended for this hummingbird cake recipe. It provides consistent moisture and a fine texture that blends seamlessly into the batter.

How can I make my hummingbird cake frosting extra smooth?

Ensure your cream cheese and butter are fully softened to room temperature. Beat them together until very creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. This prevents lumps for a beautifully smooth frosting.

Is this an easy hummingbird cake recipe for beginners?

Yes, it is! This hummingbird cake recipe is surprisingly straightforward. If you can mix a few bowls and follow simple steps, you can confidently create this delicious and impressive cake.

This easy hummingbird cake recipe with its tropical pineapple banana layers and crunchy pecan praline truly delivers on flavor, comfort, and family satisfaction. It’s a hearty, budget-friendly dessert that brings joy to any table. Pin this recipe now and add it to your weekly meal plan for a delightful, family-friendly treat everyone will love!

Print