Hummingbird Cake
Have you ever found yourself enchanted by the idea of a cake so divine that it bears the name of a bird? Prepare to embark on a delectable adventure into the enchanting realm of Hummingbird Cake! Join us as we delve into the fascinating history, versatile applications, and irresistible recipes that have made this dessert a cherished favorite among sweet enthusiasts worldwide.
Ingredients
- 3 cups 360g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups 400g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup 240ml vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 can 8 ounces crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup 100g chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 cups 250g mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 ounces 450g full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup 115g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 4 and 1/2 cups 540g confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup 100g chopped pecans or walnuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Incorporate Pineapple, Nuts, and Bananas:
- Stir in the crushed pineapple (with its juice), chopped nuts, and mashed bananas until evenly distributed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide Batter and Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Cakes:
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the assembled cake.
- Optionally, garnish the top of the cake with chopped pecans or walnuts.
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the frosting to set.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!