Hummingbird Bread is a rich, moist quick bread that draws its inspiration from the classic Hummingbird Cake, a dessert with Southern roots that became popular in the United States during the 1970s. Originally introduced through Southern Living magazine, Hummingbird Cake features a combination of tropical flavors like banana, pineapple, coconut, and pecans, all bound together by a rich cream cheese frosting.

While Hummingbird Cake traditionally has multiple layers, Hummingbird Bread simplifies the process by creating a single or two-loaf version that retains the same beloved flavors. It incorporates the same signature ingredients, offering a unique flavor profile that blends the natural sweetness of bananas, the tang of crushed pineapple, the chewiness of coconut, and the crunch of pecans, all elevated by a warm hint of cinnamon.

What sets Hummingbird Bread apart from other banana breads is this tropical twist and the addition of crushed pineapple, which provides extra moisture and a bright, fruity undertone. The inclusion of shredded coconut and pecans adds textural variety, creating a more complex and interesting bite compared to traditional banana bread. Hummingbird Bread is often finished with a creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting, making it perfect as a decadent dessert or indulgent snack.

Ingredients Breakdown 

Key Ingredients for the Bread:

• Butter: Butter is a foundational ingredient in Hummingbird Bread, contributing to the bread’s moisture and rich flavor. Its fat content ensures that the crumb remains soft and tender, and it also helps bind the ingredients together.
• Granulated & Brown Sugar: Using a combination of sugars adds depth to the sweetness of the bread. Granulated sugar offers a straightforward sweetness, while brown sugar, with its molasses content, adds a slightly caramelized note, enhancing the bread’s flavor complexity.
• Mashed Bananas: The bananas provide not only sweetness but also moisture, ensuring the bread stays soft even after baking. Overripe bananas are best, as they are sweeter and easier to mash, resulting in a well-blended batter.
• Crushed Pineapple: The tropical flavor of crushed pineapple is what makes Hummingbird Bread stand out. Using pineapple with its juice adds even more moisture to the batter, contributing to the bread’s ultra-moist texture.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut: Coconut gives the bread a chewy texture and enhances its tropical character, pairing perfectly with the banana and pineapple flavors.
• Pecans: Pecans add a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the bread. Their nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the other ingredients, making each bite more complex and satisfying.
• Cinnamon: The warmth of ground cinnamon rounds out the tropical flavors and adds a comforting, spiced note to the bread, making it even more aromatic and flavorful.

Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: The tanginess of cream cheese balances the sweetness of the bread and provides a creamy, smooth frosting that pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors.
• Butter: Butter adds a rich, smooth texture to the frosting and helps it hold its shape when spread across the bread.
• Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting while ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: A small amount of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the frosting, adding a layer of warmth and depth.
• Pecans in the Frosting: Adding chopped pecans to the frosting introduces a delightful crunch and ties the nutty flavors of the bread and frosting together, making each slice a textural delight.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hummingbird Bread

Preheat the Oven:

Preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) is essential for ensuring even baking. If the oven isn’t fully preheated, the bread might cook unevenly, leading to an underbaked center and overbaked edges.

Preparing the Wet Ingredients:

• Start by creaming the butter with both the granulated and brown sugar. This process is key to creating a light and airy texture in the bread. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes around 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
• Once the butter and sugars are well-combined, add in the eggs one at a time, making sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract at this stage, as it will blend better with the wet ingredients.

Sifting Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Sifting helps to break up any lumps and aerates the flour, ensuring a smoother batter. This step is crucial for achieving a tender crumb in the bread.

Adding Mix-Ins:

• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Add the crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans to the batter. These ingredients give the bread its signature tropical flavor and texture.
• Lastly, fold in the mashed bananas, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Baking Tips:

• Pour the batter into two greased 8×4-inch loaf pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans to ensure consistent baking.
• Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a cake tester or toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready.

Cooling Tips:

Once the bread is done, allow it to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting, as frosting warm bread can cause the frosting to melt and become runny.

Tips for Perfecting Your Hummingbird Bread

Ensuring Moisture:

To prevent dry Hummingbird Bread, it’s crucial to use the correct balance of moisture-rich ingredients. Bananas, pineapple, and butter all contribute to keeping the bread moist. Ensure that the bananas are overripe and well-mashed, and use the full amount of crushed pineapple with its juice for optimal texture. Avoid cutting back on butter, as it plays a key role in achieving a tender crumb.

Pineapple Tips:

Crushed pineapple adds both moisture and a subtle tangy flavor. Be sure to use canned pineapple with juice, not syrup, as the juice provides natural sweetness and hydration. Draining the juice may result in a drier bread, so include it in the mix to retain moistness.

Avoiding Overmixing:

Overmixing the batter can cause gluten development, leading to a dense, tough loaf. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until the flour disappears. Gently fold in the bananas, pineapple, coconut, and pecans to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

Baking Time & Temperature Adjustments:

Bake the bread at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, but keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures vary. If you’re at a high altitude, you may need to increase the temperature slightly or adjust the baking time. If baking in different-sized pans (e.g., muffins or mini loaves), reduce the baking time and check for doneness earlier by inserting a toothpick or cake tester.

Variations of Hummingbird Bread

Making it Healthier:

To make a healthier version of Hummingbird Bread, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and gives the bread a nuttier flavor. For a natural sweetener alternative, try replacing granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup. These alternatives add a subtle flavor twist and can reduce processed sugar content.

Vegan Options:

For a vegan Hummingbird Bread, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water for each egg) or unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg). Both substitutions help bind the bread while keeping it moist. To make the frosting vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter. These substitutes retain the creamy texture of the frosting without animal products.

Gluten-Free Hummingbird Bread:

To make the bread gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for structure. Since gluten-free flours can result in denser baked goods, ensure you don’t overmix the batter, and consider adding an extra egg or using more bananas to maintain moisture. This helps mimic the texture of traditional Hummingbird Bread while staying gluten-free.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Storing the Bread:

To keep Hummingbird Bread fresh, store it at room temperature for up to three days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to three months.

Refrigerating or Freezing:

When freezing, slice the bread before wrapping it so you can thaw individual portions as needed. To thaw, leave the bread at room temperature for a few hours or microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds. Frost the bread after it has thawed for the best results.

Best Ways to Serve:

Hummingbird Bread can be served warm or chilled. For a comforting breakfast or snack, enjoy a slice warm, with the cream cheese frosting slightly melted. As a dessert, serve chilled with a thicker layer of frosting. Pair it with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a light, fruity drink like iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

FAQs: Common Questions About Hummingbird Bread 

What makes Hummingbird Bread different from Banana Bread?

Hummingbird Bread distinguishes itself from regular banana bread by including tropical ingredients like crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and pecans. These additions give the bread a more complex flavor and texture, creating a fusion of sweet and nutty elements with a hint of cinnamon spice.

Can I freeze Hummingbird Bread?

Yes, Hummingbird Bread freezes very well. To freeze, allow the bread to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, leave it out at room temperature for a few hours or thaw individual slices in the microwave.

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you don’t have pecans or prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. You can also omit the nuts entirely if needed, though they add a nice crunch to the bread.

How do I prevent my bread from becoming too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter, especially after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing develops gluten, which can result in dense bread. Also, make sure to accurately measure your ingredients, as too much flour can lead to a heavier loaf.

Can I make Hummingbird Bread muffins instead?

Yes! To make muffins, divide the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The result is individual portions with the same tropical flavor.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

Hummingbird Bread is a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, offering a unique combination of tropical flavors like banana, pineapple, and coconut, all accented with crunchy pecans. This moist, flavorful bread is easy to make and versatile—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a midday snack. With the rich cream cheese frosting on top, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a treat for yourself, this recipe delivers a tropical escape with every bite. Try it today!

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