If you are on the lookout for a sweet, moist, and delightfully spiced treat, this Hummingbird Bread Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Packed with natural sweetness from bananas, pineapple, and a touch of cinnamon, this bread bursts with flavor and texture that dance on your taste buds. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert, and once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved comfort food classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this Hummingbird Bread Recipe are simple yet essential. Each one brings something special to the table— from bananas’ natural sweetness and moistness to the complementary warmth of cinnamon, plus the tropical zing from pineapple and the crunch of pecans.
- Unsalted sweet cream butter (softened, 1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in the bread.
- Sugar (3/4 cup): Balances the fruit’s natural tartness with sweetness.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/4 cup): Gives depth and a subtle molasses flavor.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
- Flour (2 1/2 cups): The base that creates the bread’s soft texture.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the bread rise and be light and fluffy.
- Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Mashed bananas (1 1/2 cups): Provides moisture and natural sweetness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warm, aromatic notes to the bread.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): Lends a warm, spicy touch that complements the fruit.
- Crushed pineapple with juice (1 8-oz can): Adds a refreshing tropical zest and moisture.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1 cup): Brings chewy texture and a subtle sweetness.
- Chopped pecans (1/3 cup): Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Unsalted sweet cream butter, softened (1/2 cup for frosting): Used to create the rich cream cheese frosting.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Makes the frosting creamy and tangy.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for frosting): Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp for frosting): Adds a gentle warmth to the frosting’s flavor.
- Chopped pecans (3/4 cup for garnish): Perfect for sprinkling on top for texture and looks.
How to Make Hummingbird Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by creaming the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it aerates the batter and helps the bread rise beautifully. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon — these dry ingredients will add structure and wonderful warmth to your bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, mix the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (along with its juice), and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Then, gently fold the banana-pineapple mixture into the dry ingredients, followed by the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Take care not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Finally, fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Your batter should be moist and thick, filled with sweet bursts of tropical flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9×5-inch loaf pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma at this stage is absolutely irresistible!
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bread cools, whip together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well to keep it lump-free. Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon to elevate the frosting’s flavor. Once the bread is completely cool, spread the frosting generously over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans for a gorgeous finish.
How to Serve Hummingbird Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped pecans adds the perfect crunch and nutty contrast to the soft, moist texture of the bread. If you want to get festive, add a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey on top of the cream cheese frosting to bring an extra touch of sweetness and spice.
Side Dishes
This Hummingbird Bread Recipe is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a cup of creamy coffee, or even a dollop of whipped cream. For brunch, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs or a light yogurt parfait for a balanced meal that’s full of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your hummingbird bread into neat squares for a charming tea party treat, or serve it as thick slices slathered with extra cream cheese frosting. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine makes a lovely homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover hummingbird bread in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days thanks to the moisture from bananas and pineapple, ensuring every bite tastes just as delightful as when freshly baked.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, hummingbird bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled loaves or slices snugly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months frozen, so you can enjoy a sweet treat anytime you want with minimal effort.
Reheating
To enjoy your hummingbird bread warm, simply thaw frozen slices at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. For an even more delightful experience, try warming the bread briefly in a toaster oven — the frosting may soften just perfectly, enhancing the flavors.
FAQs
What makes hummingbird bread different from regular banana bread?
Unlike classic banana bread, hummingbird bread includes pineapple, shredded coconut, and pecans, giving it a tropical twist and a richer texture that’s truly unique and irresistibly flavorful.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple should be finely chopped and drained well to avoid adding too much extra moisture, which could affect the bread’s texture. Fresh ingredients often make the bread even more vibrant.
Is there a way to make hummingbird bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain the bread’s structure and moistness.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake hummingbird bread soon after mixing to retain freshness and proper rise. However, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight in an airtight container, then bake the next day for convenience.
How do I store freshly made cream cheese frosting?
Cream cheese frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best used within 3-5 days. Before spreading on the bread, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Hummingbird Bread Recipe — sweet, spicy, and full of personality with each bite. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself turning back to again and again because it just feels like a warm hug from the inside. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of hummingbird bread baking in the oven. Trust me, you’re going to love every crumb.
Print
Hummingbird Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Bakery
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hummingbird Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread packed with mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. This sweet and spiced bread, featuring cinnamon and vanilla, is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting and crunchy pecans, it combines tropical fruit and nutty textures for a truly delightful taste experience.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 3–4 ripe bananas)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time until combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Add bananas and pineapple: Stir in 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice, 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, and 1/3 cup chopped pecans. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or two 8×4 inch loaf pans. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 1 (8 oz) softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, beating until light and fluffy.
- Frost and garnish: Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle 3/4 cup chopped pecans over the frosting for extra crunch and decoration. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Be sure the bread is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, drain some of the juice but adding it retains moisture.
- This bread keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
