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Classic Hummingbird Cake Recipe – Southern Dessert Delight

Classic Hummingbird Cake Recipe – Southern Dessert Delight

Description

Hello, cake lovers! If you’re looking for a show-stopping, flavorful cake that’s both nostalgic and comforting, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into the rich, fruity layers of Classic Hummingbird Cake, a Southern favorite also known as Banana Pineapple Cream Delight. This timeless recipe brings together tropical fruits, spices, and a luxurious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious treat, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture and unforgettable flavor. Ready to learn how to make this delight at home? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings:

  • Sliced bananas and pineapple chunks
  • Chopped pecans

Optional Substitutions:

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free baking flour.
  • To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and cream cheese.
  • Nut-free alternative: Omit the pecans if you’re avoiding nuts.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

How to Make Classic Hummingbird Cake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. For extra non-stick power, line the pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This creates the dry base for your cake.
  3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture: melted butter, eggs, crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Make sure not to overmix, as this could toughen the cake.
  4. If desired, fold in chopped pecans for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  • Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add in powdered sugar, about one cup at a time, beating on low speed to avoid any sugar clouds. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and smooth, perfect for spreading.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  • Gently place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
  • Garnish with sliced bananas, pineapple chunks, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for that final touch of elegance.

Equipment

Notes

  • Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
  • Drain the pineapple thoroughly: Excess liquid from the pineapple can affect the cake’s texture, making it soggy. Be sure to press out as much juice as possible.
  • Don’t overmix: Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, mix just until the batter comes together. Overmixing can make the cake dense.
  • Cooling is key: Make sure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting. Warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt and slide.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/classic-hummingbird-cake-recipe-southern-dessert-delight/