Hummingbird cake is a sweet and dense layered cake that originated in Jamaica. It contains bananas, crushed pineapple, and pecans or walnuts, and is typically frosted with a cream cheese icing. But why is this tropical-inspired cake named after a tiny, fast-flying bird? Let’s explore the history and origins of the hummingbird cake.
The History of Hummingbird Cake
While the exact origins of hummingbird cake are unknown, most food historians agree it was created sometime in the 1960s in Jamaica. The tropical climate of the island provided easy access to key ingredients like bananas, pineapple, and nuts. These flavours blend together into a sweet, dense cake similar to traditional Caribbean black cakes.
The name “hummingbird cake” first appeared in print in the late 1960s in both Jamaica and the Southern United States. The earliest published recipe was found in 1968 in the Jamaica World newspaper. It gained popularity when Southern Living magazine published a recipe for hummingbird cake in 1978. This helped introduce it to a broader audience across the American South.
There are a few theories about how hummingbird cake got its name:
- The sweetness of the cake resembles the sweet nectar that hummingbirds feed on.
- The richness and texture of the cake is similar to the silky plumage of hummingbirds.
- Eating a slice of hummingbird cake gives you a sudden burst of energy, just like the constant motion of hummingbirds.
Whatever the reasoning, the name hummingbird cake seemed fitting for this dense, ultra-sweet cake filled with tropical flavours.
Key Ingredients in Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird cake contains a blend of ingredients that give it a uniquely sweet, tropical taste. Here are the key components:
Ripe Bananas
Bananas lend moisture, sweetness, and structure to the cake layers. They should be fully ripe with brown speckled skins. As bananas ripen, their starch converts to sugars, making them sweeter.
Crushed Pineapple
Crushed pineapple adds tangy tropical flavour and moisture. Canned pineapple is typically used since fresh pineapple contains enzymes that can negatively affect the texture. Draining the canned pineapple well helps prevent the cake from being too wet.
Pecans or Walnuts
Chopped nuts add crunch and richness. Pecans are commonly used since they pair well with the banana and pineapple. Walnuts can be substituted in for a slight change in flavour.
Cinnamon
A touch of cinnamon enhances the warm, sweet flavours. About 1-2 teaspoons is enough to add subtle spice without overpowering.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is a must for rounding out the flavours of the cake. Typically 1-2 teaspoons is added.
Vegetable or Canola Oil
The neutral taste of vegetable or canola oil allows the fruit and spice flavours to shine. Butter can be substituted but will provide a richer cake with a slightly different flavour.
Sugar
Granulated white sugar sweetens the cake and helps bind it together. Brown sugar can also be used for a slightly more complex, molasses-like sweetness.
All-purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides structure and stability. Cake flour can also be used for a more delicate, tender crumb.
Eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients, add moisture, and provide structure. Three eggs are commonly used for a single layered cake.
Baking Soda and Powder
Leavening agents like baking soda and powder give the cake a light, fluffy texture. They create air bubbles that expand when baked.
Salt
A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the other flavours.
Cream Cheese Frosting
A creamy cream cheese frosting complements the tropical cake layers. Powdered sugar, cream cheese, and butter are whipped together to make the silky icing.
The Unique Qualities of Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird cake has several characteristics that distinguish it from other cakes:
- Extremely moist and tender crumb – All those ripe bananas and pineapple make it extra moist.
- Pronounced tropical fruit flavours – Bananas and pineapple provide a sweet, fruity taste.
- Pleasant nutty crunch – Toasted pecans or walnuts add texture.
- Warm cinnamon spice – Cinnamon adds warmth without being overpowering.
- Rich, tangy cream cheese frosting – The frosting provides decadence and a tangy contrast.
- Dense, almost sticky texture – The high moisture content gives it a pleasantly sticky mouthfeel.
- Sweetness that isn’t cloying – Brown sugar and ripe fruit provide sweetness without being too sugary.
These characteristics come together to create a uniquely delightful cake experience perfect for any special occasion.
How to Make Hummingbird Cake
Here is a step-by-step overview of how to make classic hummingbird cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nuts. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- Mash bananas well and stir into the butter mixture. Add crushed pineapple and stir until combined.
- Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in 2-3 additions, stirring just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Divide batter evenly between cake pans. Bake for 28-32 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Make cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla and powdered sugar. Frost cooled cake layers and serve.
Tips for perfect hummingbird cake:
- Be sure bananas are very ripe and pineapple is well drained.
- Toast nuts to maximize their flavour.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
- Check for doneness before minimum bake time.
- Allow cake layers to cool completely before assembling and frosting.
Variations on Classic Hummingbird Cake
While the classic recipe remains a favorite, there are many fun ways to put a spin on hummingbird cake:
Gluten-Free Hummingbird Cake
Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
Hummingbird Cupcakes
Divide the batter between 24 lined cupcake tins for individually portioned cakes.
Hummingbird Bundt Cake
Pour the batter into a Bundt pan for a stunning presentation.
Hummingbird Sheet Cake
Spread the batter in a sheet pan and frost the entire top for easy serving.
Hummingbird Poke Cake
Bake cake layers, then poke holes and soak with pineapple juice before frosting.
Hummingbird Stack Cake
Layer thicker cake rounds with pineapple filling instead of frosting.
Hummingbird Trifle
Cube cake layers and combine with pineapple, pudding, and whipped cream.
Hummingbird Upside Down Cake
Place pineapple slices in pan, top with batter, and flip over after baking.
Spiced Hummingbird Cake
Add spices like nutmeg, ginger, cloves, or allspice.
Why Hummingbird Cake Became Popular
Hummingbird cake seemed destined for popularity in the Southern United States for several reasons:
- The tropical flavours were reminiscent of Caribbean cuisine, which was gaining popularity in the American South in the 1970s.
- Nuts and spices used in the cake, like pecans and cinnamon, were already staples in traditional Southern baking.
- The dense, moist texture was similar to classic Southern cakes like pound cake and red velvet cake.
- The creamy cheesecake frosting appealed to Southern tastes.
- The cake was perfectly suited for the heat and humidity of the Southern climate.
Hummingbird cake quickly became a fixture at Southern potlucks, church functions, and family gatherings. Its crowd-pleasing flavours make it the perfect cake to serve a large group. The name “hummingbird cake” evokes images of sipping sweet tea on the porch, adding to its Southern charm. It represents the best of traditional Southern baking combined with exotic tropical ingredients.
How to Store and Serve Hummingbird Cake
Hummingbird cake stays fresh stored properly:
- Storage: Store frosted cake loosely covered at room temperature up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap then foil and freeze for 2-3 months.
- Serving: Allow refrigerated or frozen cake to come to room temperature before serving. Garnish slices with extra toasted nuts or pineapple slices.
- Presentation: Leave the cake unfrosted for a short time for a rustic look. Or frost smoothly and decorate with edible flowers.
Hummingbird cake makes a stunning statement at gatherings. For potlucks or buffets, transfer the frosted cake to a pretty cake stand or platter. Serve it at room temperature with a cake knife and server set out alongside. To highlight the flavors, serve with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or starfruit.
Why Hummingbird Cake Is a Classic Dessert
Hummingbird cake has cemented itself as a classic cake recipe for several key reasons:
- It has perfect cake flavor balance – just sweet enough with rich tropical fruitiness.
- The texture is universally appealing – moist and tender yet dense.
- It’s simple to make with everyday ingredients requiring minimal effort.
- It works for many occasions from potlucks to birthdays to holidays.
- Both the cake and frosting freeze well for convenience.
- You can customize it endlessly with different pan sizes, flavors, and decorations.
- It satisfies dessert cravings with a combination of flavors and textures.
For these reasons and more, hummingbird cake remains a baking favorite in the American South and beyond. It shows no signs of fading from popularity anytime soon.
The Best Occasions for Hummingbird Cake
With its celebratory look and taste, hummingbird cake suits a variety of occasions:
Potlucks
It’s easy to transport and feeds a crowd.
Birthdays
The colors and flavors make it festive.
Weddings
A gorgeous cake for rehearsal dinners or bridal showers.
Baby Showers
Pretty slices for shower guests to enjoy.
Graduations
The perfect grad celebration cake.
Mother’s/Father’s Day
Treat mom or dad to their favorite cake.
Thanksgiving
A nice change from pumpkin pie.
Christmas
The cinnamon spice suits the season.
Easter
Garnish with pretty edible flowers.
Tips for the Best Hummingbird Cake
Here are some top tips for flawless hummingbird cake every time:
- Use very ripe bananas. The skins should be heavily speckled brown.
- Drain the pineapple well so the cake isn’t soggy.
- Toast the nuts to maximize their flavor.
- Whisk the dry ingredients to eliminate lumps.
- Don’t overmix once the wet and dry ingredients come together.
- Check for doneness early to prevent overbaking.
- Let layers cool completely before frosting for neat results.
- Use softened cream cheese for smooth frosting.
- Store frosted cake in the fridge if the weather is very warm.
- Decorate simply with nuts or fruit rather than piping.
Conclusion
From its origins in Jamaica to its popularity across the American South, hummingbird cake has secured its place in the dessert hall of fame. Its tropical banana, pineapple, and nut flavors combined with the silky cream cheese frosting create cake bliss. While the exact origins of the name remain uncertain, there’s no mystery around why hummingbird cake remains a cherished classic. It’s perfect for crowd-pleasing gatherings but special enough to serve on birthdays or holidays. Simple to make yet endlessly customizable, hummingbird cake satisfies all sweet-toothed cravings. Give this Southern favorite a try and you’ll soon be humming with happiness!