If you’re ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s bursting with tropical flavors and a medley of textures, then the Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is calling your name. This moist, flavorful quick bread combines sweet bananas, juicy pineapple, shredded coconut, and crunchy pecans in a way that is simply irresistible. Topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting, it makes for a perfect treat to brighten any day or grace your dessert table for special occasions. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic that never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting that perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and flavor you’ll adore in your Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds rich moisture and tender crumb to the bread.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the fruit flavors.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of caramel depth and extra moisture.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to structure.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds all the ingredients in perfect harmony.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Gives the bread a tender rise and soft texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas): Provides natural sweetness and moisture with that unmistakable banana punch.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses a subtle spice that lifts every bite.
- 8 oz crushed pineapple, with juice: Packs juicy sweetness and tropical zest, keeping the bread moist.
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut: Adds texture and a delicate tropical aroma.
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans: Delivers delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Makes the frosting creamy and smooth.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings tanginess and velvety texture to beautifully complement the bread.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting just enough, ensuring it’s not too heavy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the frosting’s flavor to perfection.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: A final flourish of crunch on top for irresistible appeal.
How to Make Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 inch loaf pans generously so your bread comes out with beautiful edges and doesn’t stick. This simple step sets the stage for baking success.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration helps create a tender crumb and subtle sweetness throughout your hummingbird bread.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The eggs add moisture and stability, while vanilla brings that warm, inviting aroma essential to this recipe.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this mix to your wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Careful not to overmix to keep your bread soft and tender.
Step 5: Fold in Pineapple, Coconut, and Pecans
Gently stir in the crushed pineapple (with juice), shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. These ingredients bring tropical sweetness, chewy texture, and delightful crunch that define the character of hummingbird bread.
Step 6: Add Mashed Bananas
Finally, mix in the mashed bananas until incorporated evenly. The bananas contribute to moistness and natural sweetness, and combined with the pineapple, create a flavor explosion in every bite.
Step 7: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, then bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean. Allow the loaves to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and then gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is perfectly smooth and spreadable.
Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled breads, then sprinkle with chopped pecans for an added touch of flavor and lovely presentation.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Slice your hummingbird bread, serve it up, and prepare to be utterly delighted.
How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation extra special, scatter toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting. You could even add a few pineapple tidbits or banana chips for a fun, fresh touch that makes the dessert pop visually as well as in taste.
Side Dishes
Hummingbird bread pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a brunch setting, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance the richness of the bread and frosting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bread into smaller squares and serving it as bite-sized finger food at parties. You can also use it as a sweet base for layered desserts or even toast a slice to enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries as an afternoon treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your hummingbird bread will stay fresh when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration, and this method helps preserve that creamy, tangy topping while keeping the bread moist.
Freezing
You can freeze the bread without the frosting wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your bread warmed up, gently reheat slices in a microwave or toaster oven. Just avoid overheating to keep that cream cheese frosting luscious and not melted into a puddle.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add an even brighter flavor, just make sure to drain the juice well so the batter isn’t too wet or soggy.
Is it necessary to use both brown and granulated sugar?
Using a combination creates a deeper flavor and moistness in the bread. Brown sugar adds warmth and richness, while granulated sugar gives sweetness without heaviness.
Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?
Yes, walnuts work beautifully in this recipe. They offer a slightly different flavor and texture but still provide that essential crunch.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked.
Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the frosting a day before and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a quick stir before spreading it on the cooled bread for a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug from a dear friend, this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is here to deliver. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for sharing. Don’t hesitate to give this classic a try — once you savor its moist texture, tropical notes, and tangy frosting, it’s sure to become one of your favorites too.
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Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 2 loaves, serves 8-10 1x
Description
Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, flavorful quick bread bursting with ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and crunchy pecans, topped with a rich and creamy vanilla cream cheese frosting. This deliciously spiced loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, offering a tropical twist on classic banana bread with a luscious finish.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 3–4 medium bananas)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 8 oz crushed pineapple, with juice
- 1 cup shredded coconut, sweetened
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8×4 inch loaf pans thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the two eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together all purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Add Pineapple, Coconut, and Pecans: Fold in the crushed pineapple (with juice), shredded coconut, and chopped pecans evenly into the batter.
- Incorporate Mashed Bananas: Pour in the mashed bananas and mix gently until the batter is consistent and all ingredients are well combined.
- Bake the Bread: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool the Loaves: Remove the pans from the oven and allow the breads to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and blend well.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the Bread: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled breads.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the frosting as a crunchy garnish.
- Serve and Store: Slice and enjoy your moist hummingbird bread. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh.
Notes
- Make sure the bread is completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
- For a tropical twist, add a handful of chopped mango or pineapple chunks.
- Store the bread covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- This recipe can also be made in one large loaf pan if desired, adjusting baking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
