Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delightful Easter Hummingbird Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert bursting with banana, pineapple, and warm spices, all layered with rich cream cheese frosting. This Southern classic is a festive favorite for spring gatherings, offering a sweet, fruity, and tangy bite in every slice. Its tender crumb and irresistible flavor make it the perfect centerpiece for your Easter celebration.

ingredients

Delightful Easter Hummingbird Cake Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltbaking soda ground cinnamoneggsvegetable oilvanilla extractcrushed pineapple (undrained)ripe bananas (mashed)chopped pecans (optional)cream cheesebutterpowdered sugarmilk (if needed, for thinning frosting)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon.

Add eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.

Fold in crushed pineapple with juice, mashed bananas, and pecans if using.

Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Meanwhile, make the frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Add a splash of milk if needed for spreadability.

Frost the cooled cakes, layering and covering the sides. Garnish with additional pecans or dried pineapple if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12-14 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Make cupcakes instead by adjusting the baking time to 18-20 minutes.

Add shredded coconut for extra tropical flavor.

Use walnuts instead of pecans if preferred.

Make it a naked cake by lightly frosting between layers and on top only.

storage/reheating

Store Hummingbird Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
Let it come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Cake layers can be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Why is it called Hummingbird Cake?

It’s believed to be named for its sweet, tropical ingredients that “attract” like a hummingbird.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I leave out the nuts?

Absolutely, the cake is still delicious without them.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, but be sure to include juice or add moisture to match canned consistency.

Is cream cheese frosting necessary?

It’s traditional, but you can also use a vanilla buttercream if preferred.

Conclusion

Delightful Easter Hummingbird Cake is a sweet, spiced showstopper that’s sure to impress your guests. With its rich history, vibrant flavors, and moist texture, this charming cake brings joy and elegance to any springtime celebration.