Hummingbird bread is a luscious twist on the beloved Southern hummingbird cake, packed with the tropical flavors of ripe bananas, sweetened coconut, and juicy pineapple. This delightful bread pairs beautifully with a cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert that’s indulgent yet easy to make. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or an afternoon treat, this recipe will have your kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of baked goodness.
Hummingbird bread is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly moist, thanks to the addition of mashed bananas and a touch of oil. With a hearty crunch from pecans and the delicate sweetness of shredded coconut, each slice offers a perfect balance of textures. To take it over the top, a creamy, cinnamon-spiked frosting crowns the loaf, making it utterly irresistible. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress.
Ingredients for Hummingbird Bread and Frosting
To bring this tropical-inspired loaf to life, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Mashed bananas serve as the base, adding natural sweetness and moisture. The combination of granulated and brown sugar ensures a rich depth of flavor. A single egg binds the batter, while a splash of canola or vegetable oil keeps things tender. All-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda create the perfect lift, and a hint of salt balances the sweetness.
The real magic happens with the additions: sweetened shredded coconut lends a chewy texture, diced pineapple brings a juicy burst, and chopped pecans add a nutty crunch. These ingredients work harmoniously to create a flavor profile that’s tropical, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet.
For the frosting, softened cream cheese and butter form a rich base, whipped to perfection with powdered sugar. A dash of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon elevate the frosting, adding warmth and depth to every bite. Together, these elements create a decadent topping that complements the bread without overwhelming its natural flavors.
Crafting Your Hummingbird Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a loaf pan with a light coating of nonstick spray. This ensures the bread will release easily once baked, preserving its delicate structure. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, both sugars, the egg, and oil. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and cohesive, allowing the ingredients to meld together seamlessly.
The dry ingredients come next. Gently stir in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf. Once the batter is smooth, fold in the coconut, pineapple, and pecans. These final touches add bursts of flavor and texture, transforming the batter into something truly special.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top for even baking. As the bread bakes, the kitchen will fill with the heavenly scent of banana, coconut, and vanilla. After about 55-60 minutes, test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready to cool on a wire rack.
Perfecting the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bread cools, turn your attention to the frosting. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ensuring a velvety texture. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, which lend the frosting its signature warmth and aroma.
Once the bread has cooled completely, generously spread the frosting over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans over the frosting. This not only adds visual appeal but also reinforces the nutty undertones of the bread.
Serving Suggestions for a Show-Stopping Treat
Hummingbird bread is a versatile dessert that shines on any occasion. Slice it thick for a satisfying snack or pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a luxurious breakfast treat. If you’re hosting a gathering, arrange slices on a platter for a stunning centerpiece. The frosting elevates the loaf to dessert status, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or celebrations.
For a creative twist, consider serving the bread warm with a dollop of frosting on the side, allowing guests to drizzle or spread it as they wish. Its moist texture and rich flavors also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert option.
Tips for the Best Results Every Time
To ensure your hummingbird bread turns out perfectly, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These will add natural sweetness and enhance the flavor. Be sure to pat the diced pineapple dry before folding it into the batter to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the bread.
Let the bread cool completely before applying the frosting. If the loaf is still warm, the frosting may melt and lose its creamy consistency. For the frosting, make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free finish.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
Hummingbird bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep the frosting fresh, consider covering the loaf with plastic wrap or transferring it to a sealed container. For longer storage, freeze individual slices without frosting, and add the frosting just before serving. This way, you can enjoy a slice of tropical indulgence anytime you like.
Common Questions About Hummingbird Bread
Some may wonder if the pineapple and coconut flavors overpower the bread. Rest assured, these ingredients enhance rather than dominate the overall flavor, creating a balanced and harmonious bite. Can the bread be made ahead of time? Absolutely! This bread tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans, and the bread will still be delicious.
Wrapping It All Up
Hummingbird bread with cinnamon cream cheese frosting is a delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Its combination of tropical ingredients, tender texture, and creamy frosting makes it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is a celebration of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent. Give it a try and experience the magic of hummingbird bread for yourself.
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🍌🥥 Hummingbird Bread Recipe
Description
A tropical twist on classic banana bread, this hummingbird bread is packed with ripe bananas, pineapple, and coconut. Topped with a dreamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect balance of moist, sweet, and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1 and 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup diced pineapple, patted dry
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2️⃣ In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, brown sugar, egg, and oil until smooth.
3️⃣ Gradually add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4️⃣ Fold in shredded coconut, diced pineapple, and chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
5️⃣ Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack.
6️⃣ For the frosting, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, mixing until smooth.
7️⃣ Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bread and garnish with additional chopped pecans if desired.
8️⃣ Slice, serve, and enjoy the tropical delight!