Classically served with sweet tea, this easy dessert is perfect after a delicious southern meal like fried chicken, collard greens, or shrimp and grits. This is a cake you make the day before and chill in the fridge. The flavors just pop when it is served cold!
What is Hummingbird Cake?
This cake actually has a story behind it! Hummingbird cake is popular in the south but it’s named after the national bird from the island of Jamaica. In Jamaica, it’s also known as the Doctor Bird cake, because that’s what they call hummingbirds there. Full of moisture and flavor this cake contains bananas and pineapple. In America, we use 9” round cake pans, but in Jamaica, they often use bundt pans. With pecans as a decoration on the top, this humble cake is still so very charming!
How to Make Hummingbird Cake
This is an easy cake to make from scratch since there isn’t a real substitute for it in a pre-packaged mix. Preheat oven to 350°F. Turn cake layers onto wire racks and let them cool completely before assembling and frosting them, about one hour.
Tips for Layering a Cake
Place a dab of frosting on the bottom of the serving plate so the first layer stays put. Put the first layer flat side down. Be generous with that first layer of frosting. This is the part everyone notices! Place the second cake top side down to make the cake flat across the top (this is why you need to be generous with that middle layer of frosting). Place the second layer on top and press gently to make sure it sticks. Frost going around the cake instead of one space at a time to get the cake evenly coated. Press toasted pecans onto the top of the cake and chill overnight.
These tips work great not just for this cake but for all layered cakes like a rich German chocolate cake, sweet strawberries and cream cake, or this classic yellow cake!
How Long Does Hummingbird Cake Last?
Hummingbird cake is also known as “doesn’t last long cake” but if you have extra cake, keep it in the fridge for up to a week or so.
Can It be Frozen?
Like most cakes and bread, hummingbird cake can easily be frozen. It’s best frozen in layers before it is frosted, but you can freeze entire pieces of already prepared cake. Simply wrap it tightly, label it with a date and pop it in the freezer!
More Delicious Cakes To Try
The Best Strawberry Layer Cake – so fresh Chocolate Banana Cake – easy and delicious Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe – seriously easy Texas Sheet Cake – kids love this Pina Colada Sheet Cake – kid approved
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