Hummingbird Cake

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make Hummingbird Cake
4. How To Serve Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
5. Why You'll Love This Recipe
6. Recipe FAQ
7. Serving FAQ
8. Storage FAQ
9. More Best Cakes
10. JUMP TO RECIPE

Hummingbird cake is a moist, flavorful dessert packed with bananas, pineapple, and crunchy pecans. Its rich cream cheese frosting adds the perfect sweet touch. This easy cake is great for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Every bite is soft, sweet, and filled with tropical goodness.

This recipe is simple to make with step-by-step photos and directions. We’ve added pro tips, tricks, and answers to common questions to help you out!

Hummingbird cake comes together in about an hour, packed with bananas, pineapple, and pecans for sweet, tropical flavor. The creamy, rich frosting makes every bite irresistible, perfect for parties, potlucks, or special occasions.

This moist, flavorful cake stands out because it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how soft and delicious it is!

What you'll need to make this Hummingbird Cake:

For The Cake Layers:

• 1¾ cups of chopped pecans
• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 cups (3 to 4) of ripe mashed bananas
• 1¼ cups of vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 (8-ounce) can of crushed pineapples, undrained
• 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup salted sweet cream butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
• 3½ cups of powdered sugar

Make traditional humming bird cake your own by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! Simple changes can make your cake unique to you. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

• Substitute Pecans: Use walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and nutty flavor in your hummingbird cake.
• Add Shredded Coconut: Mix in sweetened shredded coconut for extra texture and a tropical touch.
• Substitute Vegetable Oil: Swap with melted butter for a richer, more buttery flavor.
• Add Spices: Boost the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for a warm, spiced taste.
• Substitute Crushed Pineapple: Use diced fresh pineapple for a chunkier texture and fresh pineapple flavor.

Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips and tricks to make the perfect hummingbird cake. Everything you need is right here, so let’s get started and bake this delicious cake together!

FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

SECOND STEP: Evenly spread the chopped pecans on the prepared baking sheet.

THIRD STEP: Roast the pecans for six to eight minutes, keeping a close eye on the pecans to ensure they do not burn. 

FOURTH STEP: Remove the pecans and allow them to cool completely. Once the pecans are cooled, divide them into 1 cup for the cakes and ¾ cup for garnish.

FIFTH STEP: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F. Line the bottom of three 9-inch round cake pans and lightly spray with cooking spray. Set them aside.

SIXTH STEP: Using a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, ground cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set flour mixture aside.

SEVENTH STEP: Using a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, eggs, undrained crushed pineapple, and pure vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.

EIGHTH STEP: Carefully whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Fold in one cup of the cooled pecans. Don't overmix the batter, or you could end up with a dry cake.

NINTH STEP: Evenly divide the cake batter between the three prepared pans. 

TENTH STEP: Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Don't overbake, or the cake can come out dry.

Allow the cakes to cool completely.

ELEVENTH STEP: Cream together the softened cream cheese and the softened butter for 1 to 1½ minutes.

You can do this either in the bowl of a stand mixer or a medium-sized mixing bowl with a hand mixer, on medium-high speed.

TWELFTH STEP: Lower the mixer speed to low, add the vanilla extract and the powdered sugar.

Keep the mixer on low speed until the powdered sugar starts to combine, increasing the speed to medium, and mix for another 1 to 1½ minutes until smooth.

THIRTEENTH STEP: Remove the first cake from the pan and place it onto a serving plate.

Using a silicone spatula or an offset spatula, spread a thin layer of frosting over the top of the cake.

FOURTEENTH STEP: Place the second cake on top of the first layer and repeat the thin layer of frosting. 

FIFTEENTH STEP: Place the third cake on top of the second layer.

SIXTEENTH STEP: Mound a thicker layer of frosting on top of the third layer.

Use the silicone spatula or the offset spatula to spread the frosting evenly across the top and around the sides of the cakes. 

SEVENTEENTH STEP: Once the cake is completely frosted, spread the remaining chopped pecans around the top edge of the cake. 

This recipe for hummingbird cake makes a sweet, moist treat that fits perfectly with many occasions. Its tropical flavors make it a standout dessert anytime!

• Perfect for Special Occasions: Serve hummingbird cake at birthdays, weddings, or baby showers. Its rich cream cheese frosting and fruity flavors feel festive and fun. Pair it with chocolate chip cheesecake bars for a dessert table everyone will love.
• Great for Spring and Summer Gatherings: The tropical pineapple and banana flavors shine at picnics, barbecues, and outdoor parties. It’s refreshing and sweet in warm weather. Serve it with raspberry squares for a colorful, crowd-pleasing dessert spread.
• A Sweet Treat for Family Dinners: Make hummingbird cake for a cozy family dessert. Kids and adults love its moist texture and sweet, nutty crunch. Pair it with warm peach cobbler for a comforting, home-baked treat.

This hummingbird cake recipe from scratch has earned a special place in our hearts. It’s not just the flavor—it’s the ease, charm, and sweet memories it brings.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this cake without stress.

• Naturally Sweet and Moist: Bananas and pineapple keep the cake moist, while adding natural sweetness that makes every bite rich and satisfying.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s a showstopper at parties, holidays, or family dinners, making it a go-to dessert for special moments.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults love the combination of fruity flavors, crunchy pecans, and creamy frosting—it’s always a hit.

• Full of Southern Charm: This classic Southern dessert brings warmth and nostalgia, with flavors that feel comforting and familiar.

Bake this feel-good favorite that’s easy, delicious, and always worth making!

Can I make hummingbird cake without a stand mixer?
Yes, you can make hummingbird cake without a stand mixer. Just use a large bowl and a sturdy whisk or spoon.

Do I need to mash the bananas for hummingbird cake?
Yes, mash the bananas for hummingbird cake. This helps create a moist texture and evenly distributes the banana flavor.

Why is my hummingbird cake dry?
There are a few ways to avoid your cake turning out dry. First, make sure you are using vegetable oil. Second, don’t drain the pineapple before adding it to the batter. You’ll want those extra juices.

Also, it's important to check the cake beginning around the 23 minute mark.

Should I drain the crushed pineapple before adding it?
No, don’t drain the crushed pineapple. The juice adds moisture and enhances the cake’s sweet, fruity flavor.

Can I skip the nuts in hummingbird cake?
Yes, you can skip the nuts in hummingbird cake. The cake will still be moist and flavorful without them.

How do I know when hummingbird cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your hummingbird cake is fully baked and ready to cool.

Do I need to cool the cake completely before frosting?
Yes, cool the cake completely before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off.

What’s the best way to serve hummingbird cake at a party?
Slice the cake into neat squares or wedges and arrange them on a platter for easy serving and a pretty presentation.

Should I serve hummingbird cake cold or at room temperature?
Serve hummingbird cake at room temperature. It allows the cream cheese frosting and moist cake to taste rich and flavorful.

Can I add toppings when serving hummingbird cake?
Yes, sprinkle chopped pecans or shredded coconut on top before serving for extra crunch and a beautiful finishing touch.

Is hummingbird cake good for outdoor events?
Yes, hummingbird cake is great for outdoor gatherings. Just keep it shaded to prevent the frosting from getting too soft.

How thick should I slice hummingbird cake when serving?
Cut slices about 1 to 1½ inches thick. This size is easy to handle and lets guests enjoy the perfect bite.

Can I serve hummingbird cake as cupcakes?
Yes, you can bake the batter as cupcakes. They’re easy to serve at parties and perfect for individual portions.

Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below to keep your hummingbird cake fresh and delicious. From making it ahead to storing leftovers, we’ve got you covered with the best ways to keep it moist and flavorful.

Can I make hummingbird cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make hummingbird cake a day ahead. Store it covered in the fridge to keep it fresh and moist.

What’s the best way to store leftover hummingbird cake?
Store leftover hummingbird cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to five days.

Can I freeze hummingbird cake?
Yes, you can freeze hummingbird cake. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

How do I thaw frozen hummingbird cake?
Thaw frozen hummingbird cake in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Can I reheat hummingbird cake before serving?
Yes, warm slices in the microwave for ten to fifteen seconds to soften the cake and slightly melt the frosting.

Should I frost hummingbird cake before or after freezing?
It’s best to freeze the cake without frosting. Add fresh cream cheese frosting after thawing for the best texture and taste.