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 servings

Spring Cakes: Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and flavorful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of spring. This cake is known for its moist texture and the enticing combination of bananas, pineapple, and spices. Topped with a rich and creamy frosting, it’s a show-stopping treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.

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

The Hummingbird Cake originates from the Southern United States, bringing warmth and comfort in every bite. Its distinct flavor profile comes from crushed pineapple, ripe bananas, and chopped pecans, creating a wonderfully moist cake. The addition of warming spices like cinnamon elevates this cake, making it a favorite during spring and summer gatherings. Finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each slice is a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Why You’ll Love This

This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. Its moist crumb is incredibly satisfying, and the flavors mingle beautifully in each bite. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy contrast that makes it irresistible. It’s also a relatively simple recipe, perfect for busy parents or kitchen beginners who want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. You can whip it up in just 40 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Also aids in rising and adds tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness of the cake.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Gives moisture and richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to a nice crust.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
• 1 ripe banana, mashed: Adds moisture and natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Provides flavor and moisture.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and flavor.
• 1 cup cream cheese (softened): The base for the creamy frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor in the frosting.

How to Make

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cake comes out easily.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Sifting removes lumps and combines these dry ingredients evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil and granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture will start to look slightly lighter in color.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the mashed banana and crushed pineapple until thoroughly combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently. Be careful not to over mix; a few lumps are okay. Then fold in the chopped pecans for added texture.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, in a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
9. Once the cake has cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake, or layer it between two cakes if you choose to make a double-layer cake.

Variations & Substitutions

Banana Nut Hummingbird Cake: If you want to amp up the nutty flavor, consider adding walnuts instead of pecans. They provide an excellent crunch and enhance the cake’s flavor. You can also mix in some chocolate chips, incorporating a sweet surprise in each slice.

Vegan Hummingbird Cake: For a plant-based version, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use almond milk instead of regular milk and opt for vegan cream cheese for frosting. The result is just as delicious but caters to a vegan diet.

Pineapple Coconut Variation: Enhance the tropical flavor by adding shredded coconut to both the cake batter and the frosting. It adds a lovely texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the pineapple beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common error is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid this.

Another mistake is not allowing the cake to cool before frosting. If you frost while the cake is still warm, the frosting will melt and create a mess. Patience is key!

Lastly, be cautious with frosting proportions. People often underestimate the amount they’ll need for a visually appealing layer. It’s better to prepare a bit extra frosting than to fall short!

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Storing your Hummingbird Cake is easy. To keep it fresh, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy it cold or allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

If you plan on freezing, first ensure the cake is completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

For reheating, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold, as the flavors develop nicely over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Fresh pineapple can indeed be used, but ensure it is properly prepared; you’ll want to crush it and make sure it’s drained well to prevent excess moisture in the cake. The flavor will be fresher, which is a bonus!

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free? Absolutely! You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check if your other ingredients are gluten-free as well, especially the baking powder. It’s a fantastic alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.

How should I store this cake? Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s best served chilled, but letting it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving brings out the fresh flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost it on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste and texture.

How can I make the frosting less sweet? If you find the frosting too sweet, you can add a pinch of salt or a little more cream cheese to balance the sweetness. Keeping a close ratio of cream cheese to powdered sugar will help achieve the desired taste.

Conclusion:
Spring Cakes: Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not just a recipe; it’s a joyful celebration of flavors that epitomizes the spirit of spring. With a little bit of preparation, you can create a cake that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Perfect for any gathering or a quiet afternoon treat, this cake will surely become a family favorite. Embrace the joy of baking and share this delightful dessert with your loved ones!