Introduction

Hummingbird bread is a moist and flavorful loaf that captures the exotic combination of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It originated from the southern United States, where it quickly became a classic dessert. This version of hummingbird bread is taken to new heights with a rich, creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fruit. With each bite, you get a taste of tropical flavors, buttery richness, and the warmth of fragrant spices. It’s a wonderful dessert or breakfast treat that brings warmth and comfort, while also being a great choice for celebrations or holidays.

Whether you’re a fan of banana bread or looking to try something new, hummingbird bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. The frosting, which features a perfect hint of cinnamon, adds that final luxurious touch, turning a humble loaf into an irresistible indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the Hummingbird Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups ripe bananas, mashed (about 3 large bananas)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This will evenly distribute the spices and ensure your bread has a balanced flavor. Set this bowl aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined. Stir in the mashed bananas and drained pineapple until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense rather than soft and fluffy. If you’re adding chopped pecans or shredded coconut, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Bake the Hummingbird Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the bread has fully cooled, generously spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice and serve!

Cooking Notes:

• The combination of banana, pineapple, and pecans adds depth to the bread, but if you prefer a more straightforward banana bread, you can omit the pineapple and pecans.
• Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent the bread from becoming too moist.
• The applesauce is a great way to reduce the oil in this recipe without sacrificing moisture.
• The cinnamon in the frosting can be adjusted according to your taste. For a more pronounced flavor, you can add an extra pinch.

Serving Suggestions:

Hummingbird bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat with afternoon coffee or tea. You can serve it as is, but for an extra special touch, garnish each slice with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped pecans. It also pairs well with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips:

1. Storage: This bread stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices individually for quick breakfasts.
2. Make it Healthier: For a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Additionally, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
3. Frosting Variations: If you want to switch up the frosting, try adding a bit of orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a citrusy kick, or sprinkle in some nutmeg for a deeper spice flavor.
4. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can ripen them quickly by baking them in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until the skins turn black.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

55-65 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 30g
• Fiber: 2g

Conclusion

Hummingbird bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tropical flavors of banana and pineapple with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for family or friends, or simply want to enjoy a comforting homemade loaf. The bread is moist and tender, while the frosting adds a creamy, spicy kick that elevates the flavors to the next level. If you’re looking for a unique yet familiar dessert or snack, this hummingbird bread is a must-try. With a little preparation, you can create a delicious loaf that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Hummingbird Bread with Heavenly Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Imili Johnson
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Hummingbird Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups ripe bananas, mashed (about 3 large bananas)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This will evenly distribute the spices and ensure your bread has a balanced flavor. Set this bowl aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined. Stir in the mashed bananas and drained pineapple until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense rather than soft and fluffy. If you’re adding chopped pecans or shredded coconut, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Bake the Hummingbird Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the bread has fully cooled, generously spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice and serve!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55-65 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Sodium: 220mg
• Protein: 4g