Hummingbird Cake is a Southern classic known for its moist, flavorful layers filled with bananas, pineapple, and pecans. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any special occasion or just as a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 large bananas)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (16-ounce) package powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the eggs and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, crushed pineapple (with juice), chopped pecans, and mashed bananas until evenly combined.
- Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, remove the cakes from the pans and place them on wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a portion of the cream cheese frosting over the top of the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted first layer and spread more frosting on top.
- Repeat with the third layer, spreading the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish (Optional):
- If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the cake for a decorative touch.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy!
This Hummingbird Cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
