17 Hummingbird Cake Recipe From Southern Living 1978 Deliciousness Awaits You!

Published on: Apr 2, 2024

The hummingbird cake recipe from Southern Living magazine has been a beloved dessert in households across the South since its debut in 1978. This classic recipe has stood the test of time and has become a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. With its rich blend of flavors and creamy texture, this cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. But what makes this recipe so special? Let's take a closer look at the history and ingredients of this iconic dessert.

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Hummingbird Cake

Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Sugar, Salt, Baking Soda, Vegetable Oil
Hummingbird Cake | Sally's Baking Addiction
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If you're craving a delicious and unique dessert, look no further than a Hummingbird Cake. This southern classic is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, these top 13 Beer Can Chicken recipes will have you whipping up a Hummingbird Cake in no time.
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Concept adapted from Southern Living magazine, October...

Main Ingredients: Bacon, Crackers, Brown Sugar, Chili Powder, Black
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The concept of the Hummingbird Cake was first introduced by Southern Living magazine in October 1978. This tasty cake was named after the small bird known for its love of sweet nectar. The original recipe featured three layers of cake filled with bananas, pineapple, and pecans, and topped with a cream cheese frosting.
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Hummingbird Cake

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, White Sugar, Baking Soda, Salt
Hummingbird Cake | Sally's Baking Addiction
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This classic Hummingbird Cake recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet bananas, juicy pineapple, and crunchy pecans creates a delicious and moist cake. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and creamy element that ties everything together.
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For a truly authentic Hummingbird Cake, this recipe stays true to its southern roots. It uses buttermilk and vegetable oil to create a rich and moist cake, and the addition of a pinch of cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor. Don't forget to top it off with a generous amount of cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch.
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Classic Hummingbird Cake

Main Ingredients: Pecan Halves, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking
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If you're looking for a traditional Hummingbird Cake, this recipe is for you. It sticks to the original formula of three layers of cake filled with bananas, pineapple, and pecans. The addition of a little bit of lemon zest in the frosting gives it a fresh and zesty twist.
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Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Gluten Free Flour, Xanthan Gum, Cornstarch
Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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For those with gluten sensitivities, this gluten-free Hummingbird Cake recipe is a game-changer. It uses a combination of almond flour and gluten-free flour to create a light and fluffy cake that is just as delicious as the original. Don't forget to use gluten-free ingredients for the frosting as well.
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Hummingbird Cake Whoopie Pies

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Ground
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If you're in the mood for a handheld version of the Hummingbird Cake, these Whoopie Pies are a must-try. They feature all the classic flavors of a Hummingbird Cake sandwiched between two soft and chewy cookies. They're perfect for a grab-and-go dessert or for a party dessert spread.
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Hummingbird Cake From Scratch

Main Ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Salt, Baking Soda, Canela, Eggs
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For those who prefer to make everything from scratch, this Hummingbird Cake recipe is for you. It uses fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a cake that is bursting with flavor. Don't be intimidated by the homemade cream cheese frosting, it's easier than you think.
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Hummingbird Bundt Cake

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Baking Soda, Ground Cinnamon
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If you want to change things up from the traditional layer cake, try making a Hummingbird Bundt Cake. This recipe uses a bundt pan to create a beautiful and impressive-looking cake. It's perfect for special occasions or for a delicious treat any day of the week.
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Hummingbird Snack Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

Main Ingredients: Cake, Medium Bananas, Crushed Pineapple In Juice
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This Hummingbird Snack Cake is a perfect option for those who want a smaller portion of cake. It's baked in a 9x13 inch pan and topped with a rich and decadent brown butter frosting. The addition of butter extract in the cake adds an extra layer of flavor that is sure to impress.
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Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Main Ingredients: Yukon Gold Potatoes, Salt, Butter, Half And Half, Cream
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What goes better with a slice of Hummingbird Cake than a side of Perfect Mashed Potatoes? This classic recipe will yield creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes that are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Don't forget to top them off with a pat of butter and some fresh herbs for a delicious finishing touch.
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Black Walnut Hummingbird Cake

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Salt, Baking Soda, Ground
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If you want to add a little twist to the classic Hummingbird Cake, try this recipe that incorporates black walnuts into the cake and frosting. The nutty and slightly bitter flavor of the black walnuts adds a unique element to the cake that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
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Easy Hummingbird Cake

Main Ingredients: Crisco Original No Stick Cooking Spray, Pillsbury Moist
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If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious Hummingbird Cake, this easy recipe is for you. It uses a boxed cake mix and a can of crushed pineapple to create a quick and tasty cake. Top it off with a homemade cream cheese frosting for a dessert that is sure to impress.

The Origins of Hummingbird Cake

According to Southern Living, the original recipe for hummingbird cake was submitted to the magazine by Mrs. L.H. Wiggins of Greensboro, North Carolina in 1978. It quickly gained popularity and has since become one of the most requested recipes in the magazine's history. Some believe the cake was named after the hummingbird bird because it is as sweet as the nectar that the bird feeds on. Others believe it got its name because it is so light and airy, like the bird's wings. Whatever the reason, the hummingbird cake has become synonymous with Southern hospitality and tradition.

The Key Ingredients

The ingredients in a hummingbird cake may sound unusual, but they come together to create a truly delicious and unique flavor. The main components include bananas, pineapple, and pecans. These ingredients not only add sweetness and moisture to the cake, but they also provide a subtle fruity taste that sets it apart from other desserts. Additionally, the use of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm and comforting spice to the cake. And of course, what Southern dessert would be complete without a cream cheese frosting? This rich and creamy frosting perfectly complements the flavors of the cake and adds a decadent touch.

A Timeless Tradition

The hummingbird cake has stood the test of time and has remained a beloved dessert in the South for over 40 years. It has been passed down from generation to generation, and each family has their own unique twist on the recipe. Some add coconut or orange zest for a tropical twist, while others top it with chopped pecans or shredded coconut for added texture. No matter how you make it, the hummingbird cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

In Conclusion

The hummingbird cake is more than just a dessert; it's a symbol of Southern hospitality and tradition. Its delicious blend of flavors and simple yet unique ingredients have made it a timeless classic. So next time you're looking for a dessert to impress your guests, why not try your hand at the iconic hummingbird cake? Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you.
17 hummingbird cake recipe from southern living 1978 Deliciousness awaits you!

Hummingbird Cake

yield: 12 total time: 60 minutes
5.0 Stars (1 reviews)
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Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for the pans
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 1 cup canola or other mild vegetable oil, plus more for the pans
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 2 cups bananas mashed ripe, about 4
  • 8 ounces crushed pineapple 1 cup, packed in juice, undrained
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans untoasted
  • 1 pound cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 pound unsalted butter softened
  • 6 cups confectioners' sugar sifted
  • 1 tablespoon bourbon
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans lightly toasted

Nutrition

  • Calories : 1110 calories
  • Carbohydrate : 134 grams
  • Cholesterol : 135 milligrams
  • Fat : 61 grams
  • Fiber : 4 grams
  • Protein : 10 grams
  • SaturatedFat : 20 grams
  • Sodium : 480 milligrams
  • Sugar : 100 grams
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