Spring Cakes: Hummingbird Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting in 40 Minutes

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8

Spring Cakes: Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of springtime celebration. This recipe brings together the flavors of banana, pineapple, and spices, all topped with a creamy frosting that enhances the moistness of the cake. It’s perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or simply treating yourself and your family to a delicious homemade dessert.

What Is Spring Cakes: Hummingbird Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting in 40 Minutes?

Hummingbird cake is a classic Southern dessert that boasts a distinctive flavor profile. Originating from the Caribbean, it combines crushed pineapple, ripe bananas, and pecans or walnuts into a moist cake. This version is specifically designed to be quick and easy, allowing you to whip it up in just 40 minutes! The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cake.

The texture of the cake is soft and tender, while the frosting is rich and creamy, creating a delicious balance. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy fruity cakes and want something that’s not overly complex to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This

There are ample reasons to love this Hummingbird Cake. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for kitchen beginners or busy parents. You can have a delightful dessert ready in under an hour. The combination of fruits infuses the cake with sweetness and moistness, making it a crowd-pleaser. The cream cheese frosting adds an additional layer of flavor that elevates the cake even further.

Furthermore, this recipe is versatile. You can customize it by adding spices or different nuts according to your preferences. It’s also a great way to use up ripe bananas and pantry staples. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or a casual weekend treat, this cake tickles the taste buds in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake, giving it structure and stability.
• 1 tsp baking powder: This helps the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the cake a lovely rise.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances out the sweetness in the cake.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the moistness.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and enhancing flavor.
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas: Provides natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Adds flavor and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The base for your luscious frosting.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness to the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve the right consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors in both the cake and frosting.


How to Make

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures the cakes come out easily once baked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step integrates the dry ingredients evenly, which is crucial for a uniform cake texture.
3. In another bowl, mix together the sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This step helps to aerate the batter and gives it a light structure.
4. Mix in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple until evenly blended. The fruit adds moisture and flavor, making your cake delightful and refreshing.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cake light and fluffy.
6. Fold in the chopped nuts now, if you’re using them. They provide a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This resting period helps the cakes to firm up and makes them easier to frost.
10. For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
11. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Ensure the frosting is spread evenly for a beautiful finish.
12. For added decoration, you may sprinkle additional chopped nuts or fresh fruit on top of the cake. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds extra flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Nut-Free Variation: If you or a loved one has a nut allergy, simply omit the nuts from the cake. The Hummingbird Cake will still be rich and delicious due to the bananas and pineapple providing enough flavor and texture. Consider adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a different twist!

Healthy Swap: For a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give your cake a nuttier flavor and a little extra fiber. Also, consider using Greek yogurt instead of some of the cream cheese in the frosting for a lighter option.

Vegan Option: To make this cake vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg). Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil and opt for a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting. This variation still results in a moist and tasty cake everyone can enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Batter: One of the most common mistakes is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined after adding the dry ingredients to prevent this.

Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Using too much flour or sugar can greatly influence the cake’s outcome. Always use a kitchen scale for precise measurements or spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.

Skipping the Cooling Step: It’s tempting to frost the cake while it’s still warm, but this can cause the frosting to melt. Always wait until the cakes are completely cool before frosting to ensure a neat and beautiful presentation.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

To store leftover Hummingbird Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to freeze the cake, it’s important to make sure it’s well wrapped. Slice the cake and wrap individual pieces securely with plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, simply transfer a piece to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. If you prefer to reheat it, you can warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds, being careful not to overheat, or let it sit at room temperature until it softens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hummingbird Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake layers ahead of time. Once baked, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before frosting. You can also freeze the baked layers for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well wrapped.

Why is it called Hummingbird Cake?
The cake is believed to be named because its sweetness attracts hummingbirds. Some also say it’s a tribute to the songbird species popular in the Caribbean and Southern United States. Regardless of its origin, the cake’s flavorful ingredients certainly make it a sweet treat!

Can I use other fruits in the cake?
Absolutely! While bananas and pineapple are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits such as mango or berries to create unique variations. Just be mindful of moisture content; some fruits may require adjustments in other wet ingredients.

What type of frosting can I use besides cream cheese?
While cream cheese frosting is the traditional choice for Hummingbird Cake, you can opt for vanilla buttercream or even chocolate frosting for a different flavor. Whipped cream can also be delightful if you’re looking for something lighter.

Is Hummingbird Cake suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, with various adaptations, it’s possible to make gluten-free, vegan, or lower-sugar versions. Just swap out specific ingredients according to your dietary needs, while still aiming for that rich, moist texture that makes it so beloved.

Conclusion: In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a slice of this scrumptious Spring Cakes: Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for any occasion, it’s filled with delightful flavors and a fantastic texture that everyone is sure to love. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this cake is sure to become a family favorite! Don’t forget to share your creations and make memories around the table.