A Slice of Sunshine on a Cloudy Day
My journey with this easy hummingbird cake recipe started when my grandmother passed down her tattered recipe card after I moved into my first home. She’d learned it from her Southern neighbor in the 70s, and claimed it was the secret to why Grandpa proposed. I was skeptical but gave it a try on a gloomy Sunday afternoon.
The kitchen filled with aromas of banana, pineapple, and cinnamon that somehow made the rain outside disappear. My husband wandered in, drawn by the smell, and proceeded to eat three slices before dinner. He swears that was the day he fell in love with me all over again.
Now I make this southern living hummingbird cake for every family milestone. It’s traveled to baby showers, job promotions, and even comforted us through losses. I’ve tweaked Grandma’s recipe to make it simpler for busy moms like me, but the magic remains. There’s something about this combination of tropical flavors that feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
Southern Comfort in Every Bite
This best hummingbird cake brings Southern hospitality to your kitchen. The blend of banana, pineapple, and cinnamon creates a moist, comforting slice that tastes like it came straight from a country porch.
Foolproof Success
My simplified method makes this cake nearly impossible to mess up. Even if you’re new to baking, you’ll succeed with this recipe. The batter is forgiving and the cream cheese frosting hides any imperfections.
Make-Ahead Marvel
This cake actually tastes better the next day! The flavors meld and intensify overnight, making it perfect for busy hosts. Bake it when you have time, not when you’re stressed.
Crowd-Pleasing Guarantee
I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love this cake. From picky kids to gourmet foodies, everyone asks for seconds. It’s my secret weapon for potlucks where I want to show off without admitting how easy it was.
Adaptable for Dietary Needs
This classic can transform into a gluten free hummingbird cake or vegan hummingbird cake with simple swaps. I’ve included notes for both variations so no one has to miss out on this tropical treat.
Impressive Without Stress
This cake looks like you spent all day in the kitchen but comes together quickly. The rustic frosting style actually looks better with an imperfect, homemade touch. No fancy decorating skills needed!
Year-Round Favorite
While many desserts feel seasonal, this cake works any time of year. The tropical flavors brighten winter, while the not-too-heavy texture makes it perfect for summer gatherings too.
Ingredients for the Easy Hummingbird Cake Recipe
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, beaten
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut
Cooking Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (stand or hand)
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling racks
- Cake plate or stand
Cooking Instructions for the Easy Hummingbird Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper. Having everything ready makes the process smoother.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these first ensures they’ll distribute evenly throughout the batter.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix beaten eggs, oil, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple with juice, and mashed bananas. The pineapple juice adds moisture that makes this cake so heavenly.
Step 4: Create Your Batter
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in chopped pecans and coconut if using. Don’t overmix or your cake might become tough.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 6: Cool Completely
Remove cakes from the oven and cool in pans for 10 minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Patience here prevents a melted frosting disaster later.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, beating until creamy. The frosting should be spreadable but hold its shape.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with frosting. Top with second layer and frost top and sides. This rustic cake looks best with swirls rather than perfectly smooth frosting.
Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle top with chopped pecans and toasted coconut if desired. These add lovely texture and make the cake look professionally finished with minimal effort.
Notes
Banana Ripeness Matters: Use very ripe, brown-spotted bananas for the sweetest flavor.
Oil Substitution: Replace half the oil with applesauce for a lighter version.
Flour Alternative: For gluten-free needs, use a 1:1, good-quality gluten-free flour blend.
Time-Saving Hack: Use a hummingbird cake from a box recipe by adding bananas and pineapple to the yellow cake mix.
Storage Tip: Store in the refrigerator but serve at room temperature for best texture.
Make Ahead: Bake layers up to 1 month ahead and freeze wrapped tightly.
Macronutrients per serving
(Based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 82g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 64g
- Sodium: 320mg
Pro Tips for Hummingbird Heaven
Pineapple Prep
Don’t drain the pineapple! Those juices add moisture and flavor that makes this cake exceptionally moist.
Banana Mashing Method
Mash bananas with a fork for texture rather than pureeing them. Small banana pieces create delightful flavor pockets.
Frosting Consistency
If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk. If too thin, add more powdered sugar until spreadable.
Room Temperature Ingredients
Set eggs, cream cheese, and butter out 1 hour before baking for smoother mixing and better texture.
Layer Stability
Refrigerate cake layers for 30 minutes before frosting to prevent crumbs and sliding.
Flavor Boost
Toast the pecans and coconut before adding to enhance their nutty flavors dramatically.
Cake Curiosities: Your Questions Answered
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better on day two as flavors meld. Make up to two days ahead and store in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with hummingbird cake?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries balance the sweetness. For drinks, coffee or a dessert wine like Moscato pairs beautifully.
Can I make this as cupcakes instead?
Yes! Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes at the same temperature. Makes about 24 cupcakes.
How do I store leftover cake?
Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days. Bring slices to room temperature for 20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce sugar by 1/4 cup in both cake and frosting without affecting texture. The fruit provides natural sweetness.
Is there a way to make this vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use vegan cream cheese and butter in frosting.
