Name: Irresistible Hummingbird Cake: A Tropical Twist to Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Mashed ripe bananas (for natural sweetness and moisture); 1.5 cups Canola oil (keeps the cake moist); 3 large Eggs (at room temperature); 8 ounces Crushed pineapple (undrained, infuses tropical flavor); 1.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract (enhances overall flavor); 3 cups All-purpose flour (provides structure); 2 cups Sugar (sweetens the cake); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (helps cake rise); 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (adds a comforting spice); 1 cup Chopped walnuts (for delightful crunch); 0.25 cups Shortening (creates creamy texture); 2 tablespoons Butter (adds flavor and richness); 1 teaspoon Grated lemon zest (for fresh citrus kick); 0.25 teaspoon Salt (balances sweetness); 6 cups Confectioners' sugar (for a sweet, fluffy frosting); 0.5 cups Unsweetened pineapple juice (infuses tropical flavor); 2 teaspoons Half-and-half cream (lends creamy texture); Chopped walnuts (optional for sprinkling)

When the sweet scent of ripe bananas and tropical pineapple wafted through my kitchen, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This Banana Pineapple Cake, often affectionately dubbed Hummingbird Cake, is a delightful blend of flavors that takes me back to sun-soaked afternoons and laughter-filled gatherings with friends and family.

Picture this: the first bite reveals a moist, luscious cake with hints of cinnamon and the gentle crunch of walnuts, all perfectly crowned with a creamy frosting that whispers of lemon zest and pineapple. Perfect for casual get-togethers or festive celebrations, this cake marries the essence of home-baked comfort with the vibrant tropical flair that lifts the spirits. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an invitation to savor life’s moments and share them sweetly with those you love.

Ready to embrace the flavors of the tropics and fill your kitchen with joy? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to impress and satisfy!

Why is Hummingbird Cake a must-try?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and crushed pineapple creates a tropical taste sensation that delights the palate.
Simple process: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can achieve a stunning result.
Versatile dessert: Perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or spontaneous gatherings, this cake will dazzle any crowd.
Moist and fluffy: Thanks to the bananas and pineapple, every bite is a tender experience that melts in your mouth.
Show-stopping presentation: Frosted to perfection with creamy lemon pineapple frosting, it’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
Elevate your dessert game with this incredible recipe, reminiscent of the deliciousness of homemade classics!

Hummingbird Cake Ingredients

Elevate your baking with these essentials!

For the Cake

Mashed ripe bananas – 2 cups for natural sweetness and moisture that creates a tender cake.
Canola oil – 1-1/2 cups keeps the cake moist and adds a light texture.
Large eggs – 3 eggs at room temperature help bind the ingredients together effectively.
Crushed pineapple – 1 can (8 ounces), undrained, infuses a tropical flavor that defines Hummingbird Cake.
Vanilla extract – 1-1/2 teaspoons enhances the overall flavor profile with warmth.
All-purpose flour – 3 cups provides structure to the cake.
Sugar – 2 cups sweetens the cake beautifully, balancing the fruity flavors.
Salt – 1 teaspoon enhances all the other flavors in your cake.
Baking soda – 1 teaspoon helps the cake rise to a fluffy finish.
Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon adds a comforting spice that complements the fruits.
Chopped walnuts – 1 cup provides a delightful crunch and nutty undertones.

For the Frosting

Shortening – 1/4 cup creates a creamy texture and stability in the frosting.
Butter – 2 tablespoons, softened, adds flavor and richness to the frosting.
Grated lemon zest – 1 teaspoon brightens up the frosting with a fresh citrus kick.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness of the frosting.
Confectioners’ sugar – 6 cups for a sweet, fluffy consistency that spreads easily.
Unsweetened pineapple juice – 1/2 cup infuses a hint of tropical flavor into the frosting.
Half-and-half cream – 2 teaspoons lends a creamy texture to make frosting smooth.
Chopped walnuts – optional for sprinkling on top, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

How to Make Hummingbird Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a beautifully baked cake that’s soft and fluffy.
Combine the mashed bananas, canola oil, eggs, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until everything is fully blended.
Mix the dry ingredients together in a separate bowl, including flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. This step adds structure and flavor to your cake batter.
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should still be a bit lumpy for that perfect texture.
Stir in the chopped walnuts, giving your cake a delightful crunch that will surprise your taste buds.
Pour the batter into prepared cake pans, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
For the frosting: Beat together the shortening, butter, grated lemon zest, and salt in a mixing bowl until creamy. This will form a luscious base for your frosting.
Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until it’s well combined and fluffy.
Blend in the pineapple juice and half-and-half, mixing until smooth and creamy. This frosting will perfectly complement your cake.
Frost the cooled cake generously with your lemony pineapple frosting. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped walnuts on top for extra flair!

Optional: Add a drizzle of additional pineapple juice for an extra tropical touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Hummingbird Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen as you customize this beloved recipe to suit your taste!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without losing moistness.
Nut-Free: Omit walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch that’s safe for allergy-prone guests.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of half-and-half for luscious frosting without dairy. The tropical flavor will shine through beautifully.
Extra Tropical: Add 1 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a fun, chewy texture that enhances the cake’s tropical joy.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger powder for a warm spice that dances among the sweet flavors.
Berry Burst: Mix in 1 cup of chopped fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, to introduce an exciting tartness that complements the sweetness.
Lemon Lovers: Increase the lemon zest to 2 teaspoons or add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the frosting for an extra zesty zing.
Layered Delight: Create a layered masterpiece by slicing the cake in half and adding a layer of fresh whipped cream mixed with pineapple chunks in between.

With these variations, each time you bake, you can explore delicious new avenues while keeping the heart of Hummingbird Cake intact!

How to Store and Freeze Hummingbird Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover Hummingbird Cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep it moist.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out and absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezer: You can freeze un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the fridge before bringing it to room temperature. If frosted, eat it chilled or allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What to Serve with Hummingbird Cake?

Indulge in the tropical vibes with delicious pairings that elevate your dessert experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, moist cake, creating a delightful balance on your plate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop melts beautifully atop a warm slice, enhancing the flavors while adding a creamy texture that feels like a tropical escape.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, this topping amplifies the cake’s tropical notes, making each bite feel like a mini-vacation!
Café Au Lait: This smooth beverage pairs perfectly with the cake’s sweetness, blending rich coffee and warm milk for a comforting sip that complements dessert.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A touch of warm caramel adds an inviting layer of sweetness, enriching the cake without overpowering its tropical essence.
Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or spiced herbal tea serves as a warm contrast, balancing the cake’s sweetness with aromatic flavors.
Lemon Sorbet: This tangy, frozen treat refreshes the palate between bites, making it a perfect complement to each slice of Hummingbird Cake.
Chopped Nuts Topping: Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top for added crunch, enhancing both the texture and flavor experience.
Chocolate Ganache: A thin layer of dark chocolate ganache provides a rich complementary flavor, satisfying the sweet tooth while balancing the tropical fruits.

Make Ahead Options

These Hummingbird Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mash the ripe bananas and mix them with canola oil, eggs, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to refrigerate the mixture to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can combine the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients and proceed as directed. For the frosting, you can prepare it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before frosting your cooled cake. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy the delightful flavors of this Hummingbird Cake with minimal effort on your busy days!

Expert Tips for Hummingbird Cake

Choose Ripe Bananas: Use bananas that are heavily speckled and soft to ensure maximum sweetness and moisture in your cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, fluffy texture you desire.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, helping the cake rise beautifully.
Bake Evenly: Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean. Baking too long can dry out the cake.
Frost When Cool: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

These helpful tips will ensure your Hummingbird Cake turns out as delicious and delightful as intended!

Hummingbird Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe bananas for the Hummingbird Cake?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that have a deep yellow color with plenty of brown speckles. The browner they are, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be in your cake. Soft bananas will also provide the best texture, giving your Hummingbird Cake that moist and tender crumb.

How should I store leftover Hummingbird Cake?
It’s very simple! If you have any cake left, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to keep it moist.

Can I freeze Hummingbird Cake?
Sure thing! To freeze your cake, I recommend wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bring them to room temperature before frosting or serving.

What if my Hummingbird Cake turns out too dense?
No worries! A dense cake can happen if the batter is overmixed or the dry ingredients were added too quickly. In the future, mix the batter just until combined to keep it light and fluffy. And always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature to encourage proper leavening.

Is this Hummingbird Cake suitable for those with nut allergies?
If you or someone you’re serving has nut allergies, you can simply omit the walnuts from the recipe. The cake will still be delicious without them! However, do double-check your other ingredients to confirm they’re all nut-free if that’s a concern for any guests.

What’s the best way to tell when my Hummingbird Cake is done baking?
Great question! Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. You can also gently press down on the top of the cake; it should spring back if it’s baked completely. Take care not to open the oven door too soon to prevent collapsing.