Delightful Easter Hummingbird Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delightful Easter Hummingbird Cake is a moist, flavorful cake that combines ripe bananas, pineapple, and warm spices, creating a rich and aromatic dessert perfect for spring celebrations. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting and garnished with chopped pecans, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Its tropical flavors and decadent texture make it an ideal dessert for Easter gatherings, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

this Recipe

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (if needed, to adjust consistency)
• Chopped pecans and shredded coconut for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, combine the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
3. Add the Fruit and Nuts:
   Fold in the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, coconut, and chopped pecans (if using). Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Bake the Cake:
   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Frosting:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract and beat until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.
6. Assemble the Cake:
   Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish the cake with chopped pecans and shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor. Slice and serve the cake chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 10-12 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours

Variations

• Add Spices: For an extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the cake batter.
• Different Nuts: Instead of pecans, try walnuts for a different flavor.
• Tropical Twist: Add a bit of lime zest to the frosting for a citrusy kick, or swap the vanilla extract with coconut extract for an extra tropical flair.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This cake can also be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frost the cake just before serving.

Can I make this cake without pineapple?
You can omit the pineapple, but it adds moisture and flavor. If you skip it, you may want to replace it with an extra mashed banana or a small amount of applesauce.

Can I use a different frosting?
While cream cheese frosting is traditional for Hummingbird Cake, you can substitute it with buttercream frosting if you prefer a less tangy flavor.

Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check if the other ingredients (like baking soda and powdered sugar) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Delightful Easter Hummingbird Cake is a perfect dessert for your spring celebrations. With its moist texture, tropical flavors, and creamy frosting, it’s a showstopper that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether for Easter or any special occasion, this cake brings sweetness, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia to the table.

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