Hummingbird Cake

Hummingbird Cake

14 servings
This impressive hummingbird cake is my dad’s favorite, so I always make it for his birthday. It makes a memorable dessert for any celebration and is lovely with a summer meal. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey

Ingredients

  • ripe bananas
    2 c
  • canola oil
    1 c
  • eggs

    room temperature

    3 large
  • unsweetened crushed pineapple

    undrained

    1 can
  • vanilla extract
    1 tsp
  • all-purpose flour
    3 c
  • sugar
    2 c
  • salt
    1 tsp
  • baking soda
    1 tsp
  • ground cinnamon
    1 tsp
  • walnuts
    1 c
  • PINEAPPLE FROSTING
  • shortening
    ¼ c
  • butter
    2 tbsp
  • lemon zest
    1 tsp
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • confectioners' sugar
    6 c
  • unsweetened pineapple juice
    ½ c
  • half-and-half cream
    2 tsp
  • Chopped walnuts

    optional

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, beat the bananas, oil, eggs, pineapple and vanilla until well blended. In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda and cinnamon. Gradually beat the dry mixture into the banana mixture until blended. Stir in the walnuts.

  2. 2

    Pour the batter into three greased and floured 9-inch round baking pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to wire racks to cool completely.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, beat the shortening, butter, lemon zest and salt until fluffy. Add the confectioners' sugar alternately with pineapple juice, then beat in the cream. Spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake. If desired, sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts.

Hummingbird Cake

Hummingbird Cake

65 min14 servings777 cal

Ratings & Reviews

Be the First to Rate

Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!

About this Recipe

The Ultimate Hummingbird Cake: A Tropical Celebration Dessert

Prepare to impress with this truly memorable Hummingbird Cake, a recipe cherished for its incredible flavor and delightful moistness. Originating from Jamaica, this classic Southern dessert combines the sweetness of ripe mashed bananas and the tangy brightness of crushed pineapple, complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. It's no wonder this particular recipe, a beloved family tradition, makes an unforgettable centerpiece for birthdays and special gatherings, especially lovely alongside a summer meal.

What makes this tropical cake so special is its perfectly balanced symphony of flavors. Each bite delivers a burst of fruity goodness, while the tender crumb remains incredibly moist thanks to the generous use of fruit and canola oil. Topped with a luscious, homemade Pineapple Frosting – a unique blend of shortening, butter, lemon zest, and pineapple juice – it offers a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire experience beyond a standard cake.

Tips for a Perfect Hummingbird Cake:

  • Ripe Bananas are Key: Ensure your bananas are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots, for maximum sweetness and moisture.
  • Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake tender and prevent it from becoming tough.
  • Cool Completely: Allow your cake layers to cool entirely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Whether you're celebrating a milestone or simply craving a taste of sunshine, this banana pineapple cake is sure to become a new family favorite. Its impressive appearance and irresistible taste make it a perfect dessert to share, creating sweet memories with every slice.

Frequently Asked Questions