Prepare to embark on a delightful journey through the flavors of the South with our “Hummingbird Cake” recipe. This classic Southern dessert is a fusion of tropical sweetness, featuring ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, pecans, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a slice of pure indulgence, this recipe is your gateway to experiencing the harmonious blend of flavors that has made the Hummingbird Cake a beloved tradition. Join us as we explore the sweet, tropical allure of this timeless dessert.
Recipe :
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, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, undrained
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Garnish (Optional):
- Additional chopped pecans
- Sliced bananas
- Shredded coconut
Instructions :
For the Cake:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in Pineapple, Bananas, and Pecans:
- Gently fold in the crushed pineapple (with its juice), mashed ripe bananas, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
5. Divide and Bake:
- Divide the cake batter equally among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops.
6. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
7. Cool and Remove:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
9. Add Sugar and Vanilla:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and pure vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
10. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second layer and repeat, then add the third layer.
11. Frost the Cake:
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
12. Garnish (Optional):
- If desired, garnish the Hummingbird Cake with additional chopped pecans, sliced bananas, and shredded coconut.
Hummingbird Cake is a delectable Southern classic that combines Southern sweetness with tropical flair. It’s a delectable combination of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, pecans, and creamy cream cheese frosting. This cake is not only a special occasion treat, but it also serves as a reminder of the heartwarming flavors that define Southern cuisine.
This recipe invites you to experience the charm of Hummingbird Cake, whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply indulging in the joy of a delicious dessert. Each bite pays homage to the harmonious combination of flavors that has made it a beloved tradition, capturing the allure of the South in every slice.