There are cakes that are good, and then there are cakes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. The Hummingbird Sheet Cake belongs in the latter category. Sweetly spiced, moist, and loaded with pineapple, bananas, and pecans, this Southern classic is a dessert that tells a story of comfort, tradition, and irresistible flavor. Unlike other cakes, it’s not just about sugar—it’s about the natural sweetness of fruit, the crunch of nuts, and the creaminess of its signature cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Cake:
3 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake.
2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Ensures the cake rises evenly.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and signature spice.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
3 large eggs, lightly beaten – Binds the batter and provides moisture.
1 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake ultra-moist without overpowering flavors.
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained – Adds tropical sweetness and extra moisture.
2 cups ripe bananas, mashed (about 3–4 bananas) – Deepens flavor and makes the cake tender.
1 cup chopped pecans – Adds crunch and nutty richness.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with aromatic sweetness.
For the Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates the rich, tangy base.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds creaminess and smooth texture.
4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses the frosting with extra flavor.
Chopped pecans (for garnish) – Adds crunch and a beautiful finishing touch.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Incorporate the wet ingredients: Add the eggs and oil to the dry mixture. Stir just until moistened. Do not overmix.
4. Fold in the fruit and nuts: Gently stir in pineapple (with juice), mashed bananas, pecans, and vanilla until fully combined.
5. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.
6. Prepare the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then beat in vanilla until smooth.
7. Frost the cake: Spread evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for garnish.
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Why This Cake is Loved
Moist and flavorful – Bananas and pineapple ensure every bite is soft and juicy.
Easy to make – No mixer required for the cake batter; just a bowl and spoon.
Perfect for gatherings – A sheet cake format makes serving a breeze.
Unique flavor profile – The blend of spice, fruit, and cream cheese frosting is unforgettable.
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Pro Tips for the Best Hummingbird Cake
Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Do not drain the pineapple—its juice keeps the cake moist.
Toast the pecans before adding them for a deeper nutty flavor.
Chill the cake slightly before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the icing.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with a cup of coffee or sweet tea for a true Southern experience.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Serve small squares at brunch buffets or potlucks—they’ll disappear fast!
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Final Thoughts
The Hummingbird Sheet Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. Moist, flavorful, and crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting, this dessert never fails to impress. Whether you
’re making it for a holiday, a family dinner, or just because you crave something sweet, this cake delivers every time.
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