Hummingbird Cake with Maple Frosting: A Perfect Autumn Indulgence
Introduction
Picture this: a warm autumn afternoon, leaves crunching beneath your feet, and in the oven, a delightful Hummingbird Cake with Maple Frosting bakes to perfection. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors, a cozy gathering in every bite. We’re thrilled to share this recipe, and we invite you to subscribe for more scrumptious creations delivered straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience. The blend of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and fragrant spices create a moist and flavorful base, while the creamy maple frosting adds a sweet, indulgent touch. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, perfect for family gatherings, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it fills your home with an irresistible aroma that screams comfort and joy!
Ingredients
– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Light brown sugar, packed: 1 cup
– Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
– Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
– Ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
– Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
– Large eggs: 3
– Vegetable oil: 3/4 cup
– Unsweetened applesauce: 1/2 cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Crushed pineapple (including juice): 8 oz
– Mashed ripe bananas: 1 cup
– Chopped pecans: 1 cup
– Shredded coconut: 1/2 cup
For the Maple Frosting:
– Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup
– Cream cheese, softened: 8 oz
– Powdered sugar: 4 cups
– Maple extract: 2 teaspoons
– Milk (as needed): 1-2 tablespoons
– Additional chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Necessary Tools
– Three 9-inch round cake pans
– Large mixing bowl
– Whisk and mixing spoon
– Wire racks
– Electric mixer for frosting
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Want to mix it up? Try swapping walnuts for pecans or adding a pinch of allspice to the batter for extra warmth. If coconut isn’t your thing, you can skip it or substitute with finely chopped dried fruits like apricots or dates for a chewy surprise.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugars, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add in the eggs, oil, applesauce, and vanilla, mixing until the batter is just combined. Now comes the fun part—folding in the pineapple with juice, bananas, pecans, and coconut. Divide the batter among the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. While your kitchen fills with the aroma of fall spices, start on the maple frosting. Beat softened butter and cream cheese until creamy, then gradually add in powdered sugar. Mix in the maple extract and adjust the consistency with a little milk if needed. Once the cakes are cool, layer and frost them generously with the maple frosting. Garnish with pecans, if desired, and chill until serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea. For an elegant touch, serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
– Don’t overmix the batter; a gentle hand keeps the cake light and fluffy.
– Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare and frost the cake the day before serving. Just keep it refrigerated until needed.
Q: Is there a substitute for maple extract?
A: You can use pure maple syrup, though you might need to adjust the sugar in the frosting for consistency.
Conclusion
This Hummingbird Cake with Maple Frosting isn’t just another dessert; it’s an invitation to savor the season’s finest flavors with loved ones. Easy to make and delightfully satisfying, it’s a treat that bridges the gap between everyday joy and festive indulgence. If you try this recipe, we’d love to see your creations—feel free to leave a review, share a photo, or tag us on Instagram or Pinterest!
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving:
– Calories: 540
– Total Fat: 30g
– Saturated Fat: 12g
– Cholesterol: 84mg
– Sodium: 280mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 65g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 48g
– Protein: 6g
