If you’re craving a slice of something wonderfully moist, flavorful, and heartwarmingly nostalgic, you have to try this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This delightful loaf brings together the tropical sweetness of ripe bananas and crushed pineapple with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all crowned with a luscious, creamy frosting that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re new to Southern desserts or a longtime fan, this bread promises a wonderful burst of flavors and textures that will instantly become a favorite in your baking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a success. Each component plays a specific role, from lending moistness and sweetness to adding that perfect crumb and spice balance.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Offers a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A hint of cozy spice that complements the cinnamon.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: Adds moisture and a little natural sweetness while lightening the texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out all the flavors in the batter.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas): Provides fruity sweetness and moisture.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained): Adds tropical flavor and juiciness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- For the frosting: 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon milk as needed for perfect spreading consistency.
How to Make Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when the batter is ready. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, both sugars, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour, ensuring every bite bursts with balanced flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then stir in your mashed bananas and drained crushed pineapple. These wet ingredients bring moisture and that classic sweet-tropical flavor combo that defines hummingbird bread.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread, so fold in the ingredients carefully. If you’re using chopped nuts, now is the time to fold them in for added texture and crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to settle before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely—this prevents the frosting from melting later on.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bread cools, whip together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency that will beautifully complement your loaf.
Step 7: Frost Your Bread
Once your bread has cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top. This adds the perfect tang and richness that finishes off the bread in the most delicious way.
How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few toasted chopped nuts or a light dusting of shredded coconut on the frosting adds visual appeal and delightful texture contrast. A few banana slices or a small pineapple wedge can also make your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spicy chai tea. If you want to make it a more decadent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for brunch or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing the bread and toasting it lightly for a warm, crunchy exterior that complements the creamy frosting. You can also cut it into smaller squares to serve as bite-sized party treats or package slices in pretty boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting stays moist and flavorful for days when stored properly. Keep leftover frosted bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring the frosting stays fresh and the bread doesn’t dry out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this delicious bread later, freezing is a great option. Freeze unfrosted slices individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy portioning. This way, you can thaw and frost only what you plan to eat, maintaining freshness and texture.
Reheating
To bring your bread back to life, simply thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge, then warm them lightly in the microwave or toaster oven. For frosted bread, enjoy it chilled or let it sit briefly at room temperature to soften the frosting before serving.
FAQs
Can I substitute the nuts or leave them out?
Absolutely! Nuts are optional in this recipe. You can omit them entirely or substitute with your favorite nuts like almonds or macadamias. They add texture but no nuts won’t compromise the bread’s flavor.
Is it necessary to drain the crushed pineapple?
Yes, draining excess juice from the crushed pineapple helps prevent the bread from becoming too soggy and ensures a perfect crumb texture.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Vegetable oil works best for its neutral flavor, but you can substitute with light olive oil, canola oil, or even melted coconut oil if you prefer. Just stick to the same quantity.
How long can I keep this bread without frosting?
Unfrosted bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days or refrigerated for about a week, making it convenient to bake ahead and frost when ready.
Can I make this bread into muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Just adjust baking time to 20-25 minutes and watch closely to avoid overbaking. Muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy this recipe in portable, snack-sized portions.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comforting flavors and moist texture of this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s a beautiful way to bring a taste of Southern charm into your home, whether you’re baking for family gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet afternoon treat. I can’t wait for you to try it—once you do, it will surely become a beloved recipe to keep coming back to again and again.
Print
Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful Southern classic, Hummingbird Bread combines ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm spices, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect as a sweet breakfast treat or a delightful dessert, this quick bread is enriched with a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg and optionally enhanced with crunchy nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Then fold in the mashed ripe bananas and drained crushed pineapple to the wet mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Nuts: Fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts if using, to add a crunchy texture.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, which is essential before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add milk little by little to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Notes
- The bread tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and meld.
- Store frosted bread in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep it fresh.
- Unfrosted slices can be frozen for longer storage and frosted when ready to serve.
- For added texture and a decorative touch, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped nuts on top of the frosting.
