Hummingbird Bread
Hummingbird bread is a moist loaf combining ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm spices, topped with a rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting, perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- 1 tsp Baking soda No substitute recommended.
- 1/2 tsp Salt Enhances flavor; sea salt works well.
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon Use fresh cinnamon for better flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg Freshly grated nutmeg adds more richness.
Wet Ingredients
- 3 Ripe bananas, mashed The riper the bananas, the sweeter the bread.
- 1 cup Crushed pineapple, drained Fresh pineapple can be used for a fresher taste.
- 3/4 cup Granulated sugar Brown sugar can replace part for deeper flavor.
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar Dark brown sugar will add more molasses flavor.
- 2 Large eggs Room temperature eggs work best.
- 1/2 cup Vegetable oil Can substitute with melted coconut oil for flavor.
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
Nuts
- 1 cup Chopped pecans or walnuts Choose based on preference; both add great texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugars until smooth. Stir in mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Frosting Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Mix in powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fluffy.
Final Assembly
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bread, cut into slices, and enjoy!
Notes
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for easy mixing and better incorporation into the batter. Do not overmix the batter; this can lead to dense bread. Cool completely before applying frosting to prevent melting.