Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and heartwarming dessert, look no further than the Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake. This delightful cake combines sweet ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans, resulting in a moist cake that’s sure to please any crowd. This Southern classic not only tastes incredible but also has a lovely history tied to the freshness of the ingredients that mirror the vibrancy of the hummingbird it’s named after. It’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or even just a cozy evening at home!

Why Make This Recipe

The reason to make this Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake is simple—it’s simply delightful! The flavors blend beautifully, creating a cake that feels like a hug in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, and you’ll impress family and friends with your baking skills. Moreover, this cake brings back heartwarming memories with every slice. If you’re looking to create meaningful treats for a celebration or a special weekend indulgence, this is the cake for you!

How to Make Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 bananas)
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Add the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Stir in the crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, pecans, and coconut (if using).
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Frost with cream cheese frosting and serve.

If you’d like more baking tips, check out Baking Basics for guidance!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake

Serve this cake with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich finish. A slice pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a bit of extra flair, consider adding some toasted coconut or additional chopped pecans as a garnish. This cake also looks beautiful when served at room temperature, making it perfect for sharing with guests at a gathering.

How to Store Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake

To keep your Hummingbird Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. For even longer storage, you might want to freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can keep well for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake

Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
You can lightly toast the pecans for a deeper flavor before adding them to the batter.
If you like a more tropical flavor, consider adding shredded coconut to the batter.
Don’t overmix the batter once you add the wet ingredients; just mix until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Variation

You can turn your Hummingbird Cake into cupcakes! Simply fill muffin tins with the batter and bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. You can also experiment with different types of nuts or add a layer of tropical fruit in between the cake layers for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs

1. What does Hummingbird Cake taste like?
Hummingbird Cake is a sweet and moist cake with a delightful blend of banana, pineapple, and nuts. It has a unique tropical flavor profile that many love!

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!

3. How can I make the cake healthier?
You can reduce the sugar and replace some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, using whole wheat flour can add more fiber to the cake.

This Old Fashioned Hummingbird Cake is so worth making! It’s packed with flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every bite!