Hummingbird Bars
Sweet, moist hummingbird bars combine bananas, pineapple, cherries, and nuts for a tropical-inspired treat, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10 x 15-inch (25 x 38 cm) baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add eggs, oil, and vanilla; mix well until smooth.
- Fold in crushed pineapple, halved maraschino cherries, diced bananas, and chopped nuts.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
When making Hummingbird Bars, ensure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor. You can substitute the oil with applesauce for a lighter option, or use coconut oil for a tropical twist. If you prefer, swap maraschino cherries with dried cherries or cranberries for a different texture. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These Hummingbird Bars are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with cream cheese frosting or serving alongside Cherry Surprise Pudding.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hummingbird Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hummingbird Bars contains roughly 423 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Hummingbird Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake them fresh the day you plan to serve. If baked ahead, store them properly to maintain moisture.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed bananas. For a more binding option, flaxseed meal works well—mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg and let it sit until it thickens.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The Hummingbird Bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the baking time; starting to check around 30 minutes is a good idea, as ovens can vary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).