How to Make Hummingbird Bundt Cake: A Slice of Southern Paradise

The Hummingbird Bundt Cake: a deliciously moist, perfectly spiced cake with origins in the Caribbean and a beloved place in Southern cuisine. This cake is bursting with flavors of banana, pineapple, and pecans, all held together by a delicate crumb and a luscious cream cheese frosting. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further!

Making Your Own Hummingbird Bundt Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s gather our ingredients:

Ingredients (for the cake)

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)

Ingredients (for the cream cheese frosting)

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Bundt pan (10-12 cup capacity)
• Two large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Baking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bundt Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-12 cup Bundt pan thoroughly. This will ensure your beautiful cake releases easily.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat together the pineapple, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Don’t overmix!

5. Fold in Bananas and Pecans: Gently fold in the mashed bananas and toasted pecans using a rubber spatula.

6. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

2. Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

3. Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

4. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting.

Hummingbird Bundt Cake

Tips and Tricks for the Best Hummingbird Bundt Cake:

• Toasting the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the cake. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Test for Doneness: To ensure the cake is fully baked, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
• Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

FAQs about Hummingbird Bundt Cake:

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake keeps well for 2-3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze Hummingbird Bundt Cake?
A: You bet! Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

Slice of Hummingbird Bundt Cake

Enjoy a Taste of Southern Tradition

The Hummingbird Bundt Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. From the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes to the first delectable bite, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea, or serve it as a delightful ending to any meal.

We’d love to hear your baking adventures! Share your Hummingbird Bundt Cake creations and experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!