If you’re on the hunt for a showstopper dessert that’s bursting with tropical flavors and creamy sweetness, look no further than this Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This classic Southern treat beautifully blends ripe bananas, juicy crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans into a moist, fragrant cake, all embraced by a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a warm hug—perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to something spectacular. Once you try this recipe, it’s easy to see why the hummingbird cake has such a devoted fan base.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl filled with light brown, thick, and slightly chunky batter, with many small bits visible inside. On the top right part of the batter, there is a pile of chopped brown pecans with rough texture. A blue spatula with some white flour stuck on it is partially dipped in the batter on the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a scrunched bright blue cloth next to it. In the blurred background, a white bowl with a dark rim and light brown liquid is visible in the upper left corner, and two whole pecans lie on the surface near the top right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the perfect balance of taste and texture starts with simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each one brings a special touch—from the rich moisture of bananas and pineapple to the warm spice of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of pecans.

¾ cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature): Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cake.
¾ cup neutral cooking oil: I prefer avocado oil for its mild flavor, but canola or vegetable oils work wonderfully too, helping keep the cake moist.
1 cup light or dark brown sugar (firmly packed): Imparts a deep caramel undertone and sweetness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar’s richness for the perfect sweetness level.
2 large eggs (lightly beaten, room temperature preferred): Provide structure and help bind the cake together.
2 cups mashed over-ripe bananas: Bursting with natural sweetness and moisture, these are the heart of the cake.
1 8 oz can crushed pineapple (do not drain): Adds juicy tang and extra moisture, making this cake unforgettable.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds the cake together.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and keeps it tender.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda to give the cake lift.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Imparts a warm, cozy spice that complements the fruit perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enriches the overall flavor.
1 cup chopped pecans: Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor (optional, but highly recommended!).
½ cup unsalted butter (softened): For the frosting’s creamy base.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Use real cream cheese, not the spreadable kind, for that signature tangy frosting.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings extra depth to the frosting.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness in the frosting.
4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting to perfection.

How to Make Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans, then dust them with flour. For an extra insurance against sticking, I always cut out parchment paper rounds to line the bottoms of the pans. This step sets you up for easy cake removal later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cooking oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. This creamy base will give your cake that irresistible moist and tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Lightly beaten eggs go in next. Stir them into the butter and sugar mixture—you want them evenly mixed to help hold the cake together.

Step 4: Mix in Bananas, Pineapple, and Vanilla

Now, fold in the mashed bananas, undrained crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. This is where your cake really starts to get that tropical, fruity personality. The pineapple juices add moisture and a subtle tang that makes a big difference.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking ensures these dry ingredients are evenly distributed, so your cake bakes uniformly without any surprises.

Step 6: Fold Dry Ingredients and Pecans Into Wet

Using a spatula, gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Start by adding about half, then fold in the chopped pecans, and finish folding in the rest. Be careful not to overmix—you want the batter fully combined but still light to keep your cake tender and moist.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Place them in the oven’s center rack. Bake for 39 minutes if using 8-inch pans, or 34 minutes if using 9-inch pans, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked without drying out.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then run a knife around the edges to loosen and carefully invert them onto a wire rack. Cooling them completely before frosting prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in vanilla extract and salt, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar on low speed, scraping the bowl as needed. The result is a perfectly tangy and luscious frosting that pairs wonderfully with the spiced fruit cake.

Step 10: Assemble Your Cake

If your cake layers have domed on top, level them gently to create a flat surface. Place one layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. Add the second layer on top, then cover the entire cake with frosting. Smooth or textured, decorative swirls or a rustic finish—all look fantastic!

How to Serve Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A slice of two-layer light brown nut cake with visible bits of nuts and fruit pieces spreads evenly with thick creamy white frosting between the layers and on the sides. The slice sits on a white decorative plate with a small swirl of frosting on the side. The plate rests on a teal cloth with two red roses in the background and a white marbled surface below. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your cake with extra chopped pecans or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture and an extra pop of tropical flair. Fresh banana slices or pineapple chunks on the side also look inviting and enhance the fruit flavors in the cake.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with lighter treats like fresh fruit salads or a tangy citrus sorbet to brighten the meal. For a cozy touch, serve with a simple cup of black coffee or spiced chai tea to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Use edible flowers or thinly sliced fruits arranged artfully on top to elevate the look for special occasions. You can also cut the cake into small squares for a buffet-style dessert or serve individual mini hummingbird cakes in ramekins for a charming twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover hummingbird cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration, and this method keeps the cake moist and fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers before frosting or even the assembled cake. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost or serve as desired.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature because of the cream cheese frosting. However, if you’d like to warm a slice slightly, remove the frosting portion first or microwave just the cake piece wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 10 seconds to soften.

FAQs

Can I substitute the oil for all butter in the Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

While butter adds great flavor, the oil is key to keeping the cake super moist. Replacing all the oil with butter might result in a denser, drier texture, so it’s best to keep both for balance.

Do I have to use crushed pineapple with juice?

Yes! The juice adds essential moisture and a subtle sweetness that really enhances the cake’s flavor profile. Draining the pineapple could make the cake dry.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Just be sure to follow your blend’s substitution guidelines for best results.

What if I don’t have pecans? Can I leave them out?

Absolutely! While pecans provide crunch and flavor, the cake is delicious on its own. You can also swap them for walnuts or toasted coconut for a different texture.

How do I keep the cream cheese frosting from getting runny?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are properly softened but not warm or melting. Also, beat the powdered sugar in gradually and chill the frosting if needed before spreading it on the cake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly special about baking a Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that fills your kitchen with a fragrant promise of sweet, fruity bliss. This cake truly brings people together with its moist, tender crumb and creamy frosting that perfectly balances its warm, tropical flavors. I encourage you to dive in, try this recipe, and discover your new favorite dessert that’s sure to create wonderful memories. Happy baking!