16 Southern Living Light Hummingbird Cake Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Apr 19, 2024
Southern Living's light hummingbird cake recipe is a delightful treat that has been passed down through generations in the South. This delicious cake is a staple at family gatherings, church potlucks, and any special occasion. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, makes it a crowd-pleaser and a must-try for any dessert lover.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Sugar, Salt, Baking Soda, Vegetable Oil
This classic Southern dessert is a beloved favorite for its rich flavors and moist texture. Made with a combination of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans, this cake is bursting with tropical flavors. It's perfect for any occasion, from a backyard barbecue to a special birthday celebration.
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Hummingbird Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, White Sugar, Baking Soda, Salt
The origins of this cake can be traced back to Jamaica, where it was originally known as the "Doctor Bird Cake" after the island's national bird. It was later renamed the "Hummingbird Cake" and became popular in the United States in the 1970s. Today, it is a staple in many Southern kitchens and a must-try for any dessert lover.
While there are many variations of this cake, the traditional Southern version typically includes a cream cheese frosting and is topped with chopped pecans. The combination of the tangy cream cheese and the sweetness of the cake creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
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Classic Hummingbird Cake
Main Ingredients: Pecan Halves, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking
If you're looking for a classic recipe, look no further. This version of the Hummingbird Cake is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The ripe bananas and crushed pineapple make the cake incredibly moist, while the chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch. And the cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch.
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Light Hummingbird Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg
If you're watching your calories but still want to indulge in a slice of Hummingbird Cake, this light version is for you. Made with less sugar and oil, this cake is still packed with flavor but won't leave you feeling guilty. And the cream cheese frosting is made with Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, making it a healthier option.
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Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Gluten Free Flour, Xanthan Gum, Cornstarch
If you have a gluten intolerance or just prefer to avoid gluten, you can still enjoy a delicious Hummingbird Cake with this gluten-free recipe. Made with a combination of gluten-free flour, almond flour, and coconut flour, this cake is just as moist and flavorful as the traditional version. No one will even know it's gluten-free!
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Hummingbird Cake Whoopie Pies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Ground
Take your Hummingbird Cake to the next level with these adorable and delicious whoopie pies. The cake batter is baked into small rounds and then sandwiched together with a cream cheese filling. These are perfect for parties or as a fun twist on the classic dessert.
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Hummingbird Bundt Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Baking Soda, Ground Cinnamon
If you're looking for a show-stopping dessert, this Hummingbird Bundt Cake is sure to impress. The cake is baked in a bundt pan, creating a beautiful and unique shape. And the cream cheese frosting is drizzled over the top, making it a true work of art.
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Hummingbird Snack Cake with Brown Butter Frosting
Main Ingredients: Cake, Medium Bananas, Crushed Pineapple In Juice
This Hummingbird Snack Cake is perfect for when you want a smaller version of the classic cake. It's baked in an 8-inch square pan and topped with a delicious brown butter frosting. This is a great option for a quick and easy dessert or for a smaller gathering.
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Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Yukon Gold Potatoes, Salt, Butter, Half And Half, Cream
While not a dessert, these perfect mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to your Hummingbird Cake. Made with butter, cream cheese, and a touch of sour cream, these mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. They're the perfect side dish for any meal.
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Black Walnut Hummingbird Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Salt, Baking Soda, Ground
If you're a fan of black walnuts, you have to try this version of the Hummingbird Cake. The addition of black walnuts adds a unique and delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of the cake. And the cream cheese frosting is still the star of the show.
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Easy Hummingbird Cake
Main Ingredients: Crisco Original No Stick Cooking Spray, Pillsbury Moist
Short on time but still want to make a delicious dessert? This easy Hummingbird Cake is the answer. Made with a box cake mix, canned pineapple, and bananas, this cake is a breeze to make. And the cream cheese frosting is made with a store-bought frosting mix, making it even easier.
History of Hummingbird Cake
The Origins
The hummingbird cake, also known as the doctor bird cake, is said to have originated in Jamaica. It was named after the island's national bird, the doctor bird, which is known for its long, curved beak. However, the recipe for this delectable cake made its way to the United States in the late 1960s. It was first published in Southern Living Magazine in 1978 and has been a beloved recipe ever since.
A Southern Tradition
For Southerners, baking is more than just a hobby, it's a way of life. Baking is a way to show love and care to family and friends, and the hummingbird cake is the perfect embodiment of this sentiment. This cake has become a staple in Southern homes, especially in the spring and summer months when fresh fruits such as bananas and pineapple are in abundance. It's no wonder that this cake has become synonymous with Southern living and is a must-have at any Southern gathering.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Light and Fluffy Texture
What makes the Southern Living light hummingbird cake recipe stand out is its light and airy texture. This is achieved by using oil instead of butter, which helps to keep the cake moist and light. The addition of buttermilk also adds to the cake's tenderness, making it melt in your mouth with every bite.
The Right Amount of Sweetness and Tanginess
The key to a perfect hummingbird cake is the balance of flavors. This recipe calls for ripe bananas and crushed pineapple, which add natural sweetness to the cake. The addition of lemon juice and vanilla extract adds a tangy note, balancing out the sweetness of the fruits. The result is a cake that is not overly sweet, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
In Conclusion
The Southern Living light hummingbird cake recipe is a delicious and beloved dessert that has stood the test of time. Its origins may be from Jamaica, but it has become a cherished tradition in the South. With its perfect balance of flavors and light and fluffy texture, this cake is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of Southern charm to their dessert table. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and be prepared to be transported to the South with every bite.
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