Description
Easy Hummingbird Cake is a moist, tropical-inspired dessert blending ripe bananas, pineapple, and shredded coconut into a flavorful cake. This recipe is simple to prepare, featuring a tender crumb enriched with fruit flavors, perfect for any occasion. Optional toppings like cream cheese frosting, chopped walnuts, or caramel drizzle elevate the cake to a delightful treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup canned pineapple chunks (drained, reserve the juice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Cream cheese frosting
- Chopped walnuts
- Caramel drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, drained pineapple chunks, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
- Fold in Coconut: Gently fold the shredded coconut into the batter to add texture and enhance the tropical flavor without overmixing.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve either warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with cream cheese frosting, chopped walnuts, or caramel drizzle for added indulgence.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with tropical cocktails like mojitos or piña coladas, fresh fruit salad, or a creamy vanilla or iced coffee for a delightful accompaniment.
- Storage and Reheating: Once cooled, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore warmth and moisture before serving.
Notes
- Use overly ripe bananas for maximum flavor and natural sweetness.
- For an extra tropical touch, sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top before serving.
- Serving slices on a plate with a fork helps to avoid messy crumbs, especially if using frosting.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before storing to maintain freshness.
- This cake can be customized with optional toppings like cream cheese frosting, walnuts, or caramel drizzle to suit your taste.
