Name: Hummingbird Sheet Cake: 10 Reasons to Love This Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-492071H27M31S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple with juice; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream

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Hummingbird Sheet Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that captures the essence of Southern baking. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors, combining ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and crunchy pecans. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, this dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a potluck, family gathering, or a sweet treat for yourself. The combination of tropical ingredients makes it a refreshing dessert that brings sunshine to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Hummingbird Sheet Cake

This Southern Hummingbird Cake is beloved for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly moist, thanks to the ripe bananas and crushed pineapple. Second, it’s a breeze to make, with an easy Hummingbird cake recipe that anyone can follow. Third, it’s perfect for gatherings, offering a crowd-friendly sheet cake format. Fourth, the blend of flavors—sweet bananas and tangy pineapple—creates a delightful taste experience. Fifth, it’s versatile and can be served as a dessert or even at breakfast. Sixth, it’s a nostalgic recipe that ties back to Southern baking traditions, making it a cherished dish. Finally, the Hummingbird cake with cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish, elevating this dessert to a new level.

Ingredients for Hummingbird Sheet Cake

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple with juice
2 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk or cream

How to Make Hummingbird Sheet Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13 inch sheet pan.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple with juice.
Step 4: Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in chopped pecans, reserving a few for topping if desired.
Step 6: Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Step 7: Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Step 8: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then add milk or cream until frosting is spreadable.
Step 9: Frost the cooled cake and top with reserved pecans.
Step 10: Slice and serve!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Hummingbird Sheet Cake

Keep these in mind:

Great for gatherings, potlucks, or simple dessert ideas.
Can be served as a quick breakfast or healthy snack.
Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free flour.

Best Ways to Serve Hummingbird Sheet Cake

This cake is best served at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You might also enjoy it alongside fresh fruit to balance its sweetness. It makes for a fabulous breakfast treat as well, especially when paired with a hot cup of coffee.

How to Store and Reheat Hummingbird Sheet Cake

To store, keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hummingbird Sheet Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Hummingbird Sheet Cake?

The secret lies in using fresh, ripe bananas and ensuring not to overmix the batter. This keeps the cake moist and fluffy, making it a true moist Hummingbird cake.

Can I make Hummingbird Sheet Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just make sure to frost it close to serving time to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hummingbird Sheet Cake?

To avoid common mistakes, measure your ingredients correctly and don’t skip the cooling time. This will prevent the cake from becoming too dense or gummy.

Variations of Hummingbird Sheet Cake You Can Try

You can try adding shredded coconut for a tropical twist, or substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor. For a unique touch, consider making a Hummingbird cake with bananas and chocolate chips. These variations keep the essence of this Southern Hummingbird cake while offering delightful new flavors.