If you crave a tropical twist on classic banana bread, you’re in for a treat with this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This delightful loaf brings together the sweet warmth of cinnamon, the bright juiciness of crushed pineapple, and the comforting richness of ripe bananas, all topped with a luscious, creamy frosting that perfectly balances the flavors. Whether as a breakfast showstopper or a dessert sensation, this hummingbird bread is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor in every bite, making it a truly unforgettable baking adventure you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step toward creating your own slice of tropical heaven. Each one plays a pivotal role in the overall taste, texture, and inviting color of this bread, making the process as rewarding as the final result.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread structure and a soft crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and tenderness to the loaf.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel undertone and extra moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become delightfully fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic spice note that complements the fruit.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without heaviness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with its sweet fragrance.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas: Provides natural sweetness and moisture with tropical flair.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Adds juicy bursts of tangy flavor and softness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Introduces a satisfying crunch and nutty richness.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates the luscious base of the frosting with creamy tang.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1–2 teaspoons milk: Adjusts the frosting texture for easy spreading.
How to Make Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go once your batter is mixed. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth release after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This combination gives the bread its signature sweetness, subtle spice, and lifts it just right.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vegetable oil and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, stir in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple, adding layers of tropical flavor and moisture that make the bread shine.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl and gently stir until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so a few lumps are perfectly fine here. Fold in the chopped pecans if you’re using them—they add wonderful texture and nuttiness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step creates a beautifully golden crust while keeping the interior soft and moist.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bread cools, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is thick and luscious. Slowly add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach a spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Once the bread has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For an extra touch of elegance and crunch, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top if desired. Now your hummingbird bread is ready to delight!
How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped pecans on the frosting adds that perfect nutty crunch and visual appeal. For a fresh touch, you might also scatter some finely shredded coconut or even a few pineapple tidbits to hint at the bread’s tropical heart.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a superb choice for breakfast or afternoon snacks. If you want to add a little extra, serve it alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a dollop of vanilla yogurt to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your loaf into thick, generous slices and stack them on a rustic wooden board for a cozy brunch feel. Alternatively, slice and toast pieces lightly, then add a small swirl of extra cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an irresistible twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because of its moist and tender crumb, Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting keeps best when stored properly. Cover it tightly and keep at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it covered to maintain freshness and prevent the frosting from spoiling.
Freezing
You can freeze this bread either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast unfrosted slices for a slightly crisped edge. If frostings have chilled and hardened, allow them to come to room temperature or spread a fresh layer before serving.
FAQs
Can I omit the pecans in the Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans are optional and can be left out for a nut-free version; the bread will still be moist and flavorful. You can substitute with walnuts or omit nuts altogether if preferred.
What ripeness should the bananas be for this recipe?
The bananas should be very ripe with brown spots; this enhances their natural sweetness and makes them easier to mash, contributing to the bread’s moist texture and sweet flavor.
Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Before spreading, let it come to room temperature and stir well to restore the creamy texture.
Is it possible to use pineapple juice instead of crushed pineapple?
Crushed pineapple adds moisture and texture that juice cannot replace, so skip the juice alone. However, if you don’t have crushed pineapple, you could use pineapple tidbits, just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
How long will this bread stay fresh once frosted?
When frosted and stored in the refrigerator, the bread stays fresh for up to four days. Keep it covered tightly to prevent drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the combination of bananas, pineapple, spices, and cream cheese frosting that makes this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe a beloved delight. It’s simple enough for any home baker but impressive enough to share with friends and family. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself baking this tropical treasure over and over again!
Print
Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful tropical quick bread combining ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm cinnamon, topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this Southern-inspired Hummingbird Bread is easy to make and stays fresh for days.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 teaspoons milk (as needed for spreading consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well mixed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with vegetable oil and vanilla extract until combined. Stir in the mashed ripe bananas and crushed pineapple, mixing thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. Fold in the chopped pecans if you choose to use them.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Cool Completely: Transfer the bread to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating well after each addition. Add milk one teaspoon at a time to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Bread: Once the bread has fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Garnish with extra chopped pecans if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- This tropical, banana-pineapple bread remains moist for several days.
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.
- You can omit pecans for a nut-free version or substitute with walnuts if preferred.
- Make sure the bread is completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting.
