HUMMINGBIRD CAKE

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A Hummingbird Cake is a Southern classic, loaded with tropical flavors like banana, pineapple, and a hint of spice, all topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Here’s a perfect recipe to enjoy this delightful, moist cake!

Ingredients

For the Hummingbird Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
  • 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • ½ cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)

Garnish (optional):

  • Chopped pecans
  • Banana slices or pineapple chunks
  • Shredded coconut

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the beaten eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and crushed pineapple (with its juice).
  4. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut, if using.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.

2. Bake the Cake:

  1. Bake the cake layers for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully combined.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Level the cooled cake layers if necessary by trimming off any domed tops.
  2. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  3. Repeat with the second layer and another layer of frosting.
  4. Place the final cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
  5. Garnish the top with extra chopped pecans, banana slices, pineapple chunks, or shredded coconut, if desired.

This Hummingbird Cake is packed with flavor and perfect for special occasions. Let me know if you’d like any modifications or have specific preferences!

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