How to Bake a Moist Hummingbird Cake
If you’re in the mood to bake something special, something that brings tropical flavors and sweet richness together in every bite, then a Hummingbird Cake is the perfect choice. This cake, with its unique name and even more unique taste, comes packed with bananas, pineapple, and pecans, all wrapped up in a soft, moist crumb. It’s usually finished with a creamy cheese frosting that simply takes it over the top. Today, I’m going to guide you through the simple steps of making this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
What You’ll Need
For the Cake:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups chopped ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
– 1 cup crushed pineapple (don’t drain it!)
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 8 cups powdered sugar
– Optional: additional chopped pecans for decoration
Tools:
– Three 9-inch round cake pans
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wire rack
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
1. Prep Work
First thing’s first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take the cake pans and grease them lightly with cooking spray or butter, then dust them with a little flour. This will help your cake layers to come out easily after baking without sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients will serve as the base for our cake, setting the stage for all the moist and flavorful add-ins.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
To this dry mixture, gently stir in the bananas, pineapple (along with its juice), vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Once these are somewhat mixed, add the eggs one at a time, stirring lightly after each addition. You should have a batter that’s vivid with flecks of banana and pineapple – that’s key to a moist Hummingbird Cake. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans.
4. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter equally among the three prepared cake pans. Give each pan a little tap on the counter to release any large air bubbles. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
5. Cool the Layers
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, run a knife gently around the edges and tip them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for a soft, moist texture throughout.
6. Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, you can make the frosting. Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy – this could take a couple of minutes. Add the vanilla extract and then slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Keep beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
7. Assemble and Frost
To assemble, place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a layer of frosting over it. Be generous, as this also keeps the cake moist. Add the second layer and repeat, then top it off with the third cake layer. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. If you like, press some chopped pecans around the sides or sprinkle them on top for a decorative touch.
Tips for a Perfect Hummingbird Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients, especially the eggs and cream cheese for the frosting, are at room temperature. This helps everything mix together more easily.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Stir just until everything is combined so the cake stays tender.
- For an extra moist cake, store it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
Conclusion
Baking a Hummingbird Cake is a joy, right from preparing the batter to watching it rise in the oven, and finally, to seeing the delight on the faces of those who take their first bite. Its moist crumb, bursting with the flavors of banana and pineapple, makes it a must-bake for any occasion or simply when you crave something sweet and satisfying. Follow this guide, and you’re on your way to making an unforgettable Hummingbird Cake. Happy baking!