Hummingbird cake is a sweet and delicious banana-pineapple spice cake that originated in Jamaica. It gets its name from the fact that the sugar content attracts hummingbirds. The cake has a moist texture and a wonderful blend of flavors from the fruit, spices, and nuts. Here is an overview of the key ingredients that go into making this classic cake.
Bananas
Ripe bananas are one of the primary ingredients in hummingbird cake. They provide moisture, sweetness, and banana flavor to the cake. Typically, recipes call for 3-4 very ripe bananas that are mashed well before being mixed into the batter. Overripe bananas with brown spots on the skin work best to provide maximum flavor and sweetness.
Pineapple
Crushed pineapple is another essential ingredient in hummingbird cake. A standard size (8 oz) can of crushed pineapple, drained well and patted dry, adds fruity flavor and moisture to the cake. The tanginess of the pineapple complements the sweetness of the bananas. For best results, use high-quality crushed pineapple in natural juice, not syrup. The pineapple adds vibrant color and tropical flair.
Vegetable Oil
Hummingbird cake recipes typically call for approximately 1 cup of a neutral-tasting vegetable oil such as canola, sunflower, or light olive oil. The oil provides moisture and richness, helping create the cake’s dense yet moist crumb. It also allows the cake to stay moist and flavorful for several days after baking.
Eggs
Eggs serve as the primary leavening agent in hummingbird cake. About 3 large eggs are used, which helps the cake rise nicely without making it overly light or airy in texture. The eggs also contribute protein to give the cake structure and richness.
Sugar
What’s a cake without sugar? Granulated white sugar and brown sugar give hummingbird cake its signature sweet flavor. A combination of 1 cup white sugar and 1 cup brown sugar is typical. The brown sugar adds a subtle molasses flavor. The sugar combines with the mashed bananas and pineapple juice to make this cake very sweet and appealing to hummingbird’s tastes.
Flour
All-purpose flour provides the main structure and texture in hummingbird cake. About 2 cups of flour are used to give the cake enough substance without making it dense. Occasionally, a small portion of flour may be substituted with coconut flour for added flavor and texture.
Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon is one of the central spices used in hummingbird cake, contributing its familiar warm, sweet-spicy flavor. Usually about 1-2 teaspoons are used. Cinnamon has a natural affinity for banana, pineapple, and brown sugar flavors.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is another key seasoning in hummingbird cake recipes. About 1-2 teaspoons provide the cake with vanilla’s distinctive flavor and aroma. Along with cinnamon, it provides a delicious background flavor.
Baking Soda and Powder
To give the cake lift, leavening agents like 1 teaspoon baking soda and 2 teaspoons baking powder are used. These help the cake rise up lightly with an airy, tender crumb.
Salt
A small pinch of salt, about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, brings out the flavors in hummingbird cake. It balances some of the sweetness and enhances the other spices.
Nuts
Finally, chopped pecans or walnuts are often folded into the batter to contribute nutty crunch and richness. About 1 cup coarsely chopped nuts is typical. They toast up nicely and complement the other flavors.
Frosting
While the cake itself is sweet enough to enjoy plain, hummingbird cake is typically iced with a cream cheese frosting. This rich topping puts it over the top! The tangy cream cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet cake.
Here is a summary of the ingredients in a typical hummingbird cake recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ripe bananas, mashed | 3-4 bananas |
| Crushed pineapple, drained | One 8 oz can |
| Vegetable oil | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| White sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Cinnamon | 1-2 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1-2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4-1/2 tsp |
| Chopped nuts | 1 cup |
Conclusion
With its luscious banana and pineapple base heightened by warm spices and nuts, it’s easy to see why hummingbird cake has become such a cherished recipe. The ingredients come together to create a beautifully moist and flavorsome cake that pleases people and hummingbirds alike! Next time you want to bake a spectacular cake, give the ingredients in hummingbird cake a try.
