If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a burst of sunshine and warmth in every bite, this Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Bursting with tropical flavors from ripe bananas and crushed pineapple, complemented by a cozy cinnamon-spiced crumb and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a showstopper for any gathering. The texture is both moist and tender, studded with crunchy pecans, creating a spectacular harmony of flavors and contrasts that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe, it might just become your new favorite go-to dessert to impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, home-friendly ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the cake’s unique character. From the flour that provides structure, to the pineapples adding fresh sweetness and moisture, every element blends perfectly to create an irresistible texture and flavor.
- Cooking spray for pans: Ensures easy release of the cake layers without sticking.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled: Provides the sturdy base for the cake’s soft crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping to create a tender crumb.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise for that perfect fluffy texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that elevates the tropical flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 4 large eggs: Binds ingredients and contributes richness.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Brings a smooth, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 cup canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering any flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds richness and helps in tenderizing the crumb.
- 1 cup mashed banana (about 2 large ripe bananas): Offers natural sweetness and moistness along with subtle banana flavor.
- 1 cup chopped pecans, plus more for garnish: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty complexity.
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained: Infuses tropical sweetness and moisture for that signature hummingbird cake taste.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature: The star of the frosting, lending creamy tang and richness.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature: Combines with cream cheese for a velvety, luscious frosting.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting with vanilla warmth.
- 5 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
How to Make Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans to prevent the layers from sticking. This little prep step is key to getting beautiful, intact cakes that will stack perfectly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This step combines your dry ingredients evenly so the flavors and leavening agents are perfectly distributed for a balanced cake.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix
Next, add the eggs, vanilla extract, canola oil, whole milk, and mashed bananas to your dry mixture. Whisk until everything is fully combined – the batter should be smooth but thick, loaded with all the flavors that make this cake so special.
Step 4: Fold in Pecans and Pineapple
Gently stir in the chopped pecans and drained crushed pineapple. These ingredients bring moisture, texture, and that classic hummingbird cake flavor that’s irresistibly tropical and nutty.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for 28 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center pulls out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes cool, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large bowl on medium speed until the mixture is light and creamy—around 1 to 2 minutes is perfect. Then add vanilla and gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar. Beat until the frosting is fluffy, smooth, and irresistible.
Step 7: Assemble Your Layer Cake
If your cake layers have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them for an even stack. Place the first cake layer on a cake stand or plate and spread 3/4 cup of frosting evenly over the surface. Repeat the process for the remaining layers, finishing with frosting all over the top and sides of the cake.
Step 8: Garnish and Chill
Top your assembled cake with additional chopped pecans for a finishing touch. This adds a lovely crunch and gorgeous visual appeal. Your Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe is now ready to serve immediately or can be chilled for a few hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The classic garnish is chopped pecans, which add texture and a nutty aroma that complements the sweetness. You could also sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or even add thin banana slices on top for an extra tropical vibe that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with lightly brewed coffee or a fruity iced tea that balances sweetness with refreshing brightness. If serving a larger dessert spread, consider fresh fruit salad or a citrus sorbet to contrast the cake’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice this cake into mini individual servings and top each with a small dollop of frosting and a pecan half. You can also try layering mocktail glasses with cake crumbs and cream cheese frosting as a deconstructed hummingbird cake parfait for a unique presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe stays moist and fresh when wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days, as the cream cheese frosting can soften the cake layers over time if kept too long.
Freezing
If you want to make this cake in advance, you can freeze individual layers, wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling and frosting to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
Since it’s a cake with cream cheese frosting, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. However, if you prefer your cake at room temperature, simply take slices out of the refrigerator about an hour before serving to take the chill off and bring out the best flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts work perfectly in this recipe and provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor. Pecans are traditional for hummingbird cake, but feel free to use what you love or have on hand.
Why does this cake include both bananas and pineapple?
The combination of bananas and crushed pineapple creates a unique tropical sweetness and moistness that defines hummingbird cake. Bananas provide natural sugar and creaminess, while pineapple adds a bright, tangy contrast that makes the cake so flavorful.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture. Baking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.
How do I prevent the frosting from being too sweet?
Using room-temperature cream cheese and butter helps balance the sweetness naturally. Also, adding vanilla extract enhances the flavor depth so you don’t feel the need to add extra sugar. You can reduce the confectioners’ sugar by about half a cup if you prefer a less sweet frosting.
Is this cake good for special occasions?
Absolutely! The Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe is festive, flavorful, and visually stunning, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. Its moist layers and creamy frosting make it a crowd favorite no matter the occasion.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of sharing a homemade dessert that’s bursting with flavor and warmth, and this Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe is just that. It’s approachable, made from simple ingredients, and delivers a big wow factor with every slice. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this sweet classic to your dessert arsenal—it’s truly a slice of happiness on a plate.
Print
Hummingbird Layer Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Hummingbird Layer Cake is a moist, flavorful Southern favorite featuring bananas, pineapple, and pecans, all layered with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any special occasion, this cake combines warm cinnamon spice and tropical sweetness for a truly delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- Cooking spray for pans
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for pans
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup mashed banana (from about 2 large ripe bananas)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, plus more for garnish
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, drained
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 cups confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
- Make the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans to ensure the cakes do not stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, canola oil, whole milk, and mashed banana to the dry ingredients. Whisk the mixture until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Pecans and Pineapple: Gently stir in the chopped pecans and drained crushed pineapple, evenly distributing them throughout the batter.
- Prepare to Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans, ensuring an even amount of batter in each for uniform layers.
- Bake the Cake Layers: Place the pans into the preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean, indicating the cakes are fully baked.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Flavor and Sugar: Add vanilla extract, then gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Level the Cake Layers: If the cooled cakes have domed tops, use a serrated knife to level them so the layers stack evenly.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread 3/4 cup of frosting evenly over the top.
- Layer and Frost: Repeat with the remaining cake layers, frosting the top and sides of the assembled cake until completely covered.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the top of the cake with additional chopped pecans. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the cake for up to 2-3 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe bananas to maximize sweetness and flavor.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- You can make the cake a day ahead and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Use parchment paper rounds inside the pans for easier cake removal if desired.
- Substitute walnuts if pecans are unavailable.
