Hummingbird Cake(In Loving Memory Of "Uncle" Bill Martin)
A moist, flavorful banana-pineapple cake with crunchy pecans and walnuts, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, offering a sweet, spiced taste with tropical notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients together in a bowl.
- Add eggs and oil, stirring until the dry ingredients are moist; do not beat with a mixer.
- Stir in vanilla, crushed pineapple, pecans, black walnuts, and chopped bananas.
- Pour the batter evenly into three prepared pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn onto cooling racks until completely cooled.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. If you don't have black walnuts, you can substitute with more pecans or use walnuts. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. If you want to reduce sugar, you can use a sugar substitute designed for baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hummingbird Cake with a dollop of Polly'S Creamy Frosting on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit. This cake is perfect for special occasions or as a delightful afternoon treat alongside tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hummingbird Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hummingbird Cake(In Loving Memory Of "Uncle" Bill Martin) contains roughly 923 calories, with 8g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg per serving (32% 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 this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it to maintain freshness and prevent the cake from becoming soggy.
Can I substitute the bananas?
While bananas are essential for the flavor and moisture of Hummingbird Cake, you can substitute with applesauce or pureed pears if you need a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.
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).