Hummingbird Cake

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Hummingbird Cake is a Southern classic that combines the tropical flavors of bananas, pineapple, and warm spices. This moist, flavorful cake is traditionally frosted with a rich cream cheese frosting, making it perfect for any special occasion or gathering.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for topping, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Combine wet ingredients:
    In another bowl, stir together the eggs, oil, and vanilla. Add the undrained pineapple, mashed bananas, and chopped pecans. Mix until well combined.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
    Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Bake the cake:
    Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Make the cream cheese frosting:
    In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
  7. Assemble the cake:
    Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting between each layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
  8. Optional topping:
    Sprinkle the top of the cake with chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
  9. Serve and enjoy!
    Slice and serve this flavorful Hummingbird Cake at room temperature. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Enjoy the tropical sweetness and rich flavors of this delightful Hummingbird Cake!

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