Loading...
A beloved Southern classic, this incredibly moist spice cake is packed with sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and crunchy pecans. It's all topped with a luscious, rich cream cheese frosting.
Preparation and Dry Ingredients
Combine Wet Ingredients and Make Batter
Bake and Cool the Cake Layers
A beloved Southern classic, this incredibly moist spice cake is packed with sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and crunchy pecans. It's all topped with a luscious, rich cream cheese frosting.
This southern recipe takes 120 minutes to prepare and yields 12 servings. At 1028.61 calories per serving with 8.92g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for dessert.
Discover authentic recipes from cuisines around the world.
Find recipes that fit your dietary preferences.
Find recipes optimized for your goal.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Assemble and Garnish the Cake
Substitute walnuts for pecans for a slightly different nutty flavor profile.
Fold in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut along with the pineapple and bananas for a tropical twist.
Bake the batter in a 9x13-inch pan for 40-45 minutes to make a sheet cake, or as cupcakes for about 18-22 minutes.
Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and a pinch of allspice along with the cinnamon for a warmer spice flavor.
Bananas are a key ingredient and are well-known for being a good source of potassium, an essential mineral and electrolyte that helps regulate nerve signals, fluid balance, and muscle contractions.
Pecans contribute monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. They also provide plant-based protein and fiber.
As a rich source of carbohydrates from flour, sugar, and fruits, this cake provides a quick and significant boost of energy, making it a satisfying treat.
A single slice (1/12th of the cake) is quite decadent and contains approximately 1000-1100 calories, due to the rich combination of oil, sugar, nuts, and cream cheese frosting.
Hummingbird Cake is a rich dessert and should be considered an indulgent treat. While it contains beneficial ingredients like bananas, pineapple, and pecans, it is high in sugar, fat, and calories. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The origin of the name is debated, but the most popular theory is that the cake is so sweet, it's fit for hummingbirds who drink nectar. Another theory suggests that people 'hum' with pleasure while eating it.
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead. You can bake the layers a day in advance, let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them at room temperature. You can also assemble and frost the entire cake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
While you can, canned crushed pineapple in its own juice is highly recommended for this recipe. It provides the perfect amount of moisture and sweetness that the cake relies on. If using fresh, make sure to crush it very finely and include its juices.
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
This recipe goes great with these complete meals
Tender, juicy beef brisket, slow-cooked in the oven until it's fall-apart perfect. A smoky, savory dry rub and a rich braising liquid create an unforgettable Southern classic that's perfect for feeding a crowd.
Fall-apart tender pork shoulder, slow-cooked for hours in a tangy, smoky spice blend. Shredded and tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce, this is the ultimate filling for sandwiches, tacos, or just piling high on a plate. This recipe leans towards a Memphis-style BBQ, known for its flavorful dry rub and tangy sauce.
Crispy, golden-brown oysters with a savory, seasoned cornmeal crust. This classic Southern delicacy is juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and perfect with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a side of tangy tartar sauce.
Classic Southern-style cornbread muffins that are moist, tender, and perfectly sweet. With a golden-brown top and a fluffy interior, they are the ideal companion for chili, BBQ, or enjoyed warm with a pat of butter.
