Classic Southern hummingbird cake with bananas and pineapple is always a hit.

Do you have a sweet tooth?

Truth be toldI do not.

Side view of a blue plate with a tall slice of southern hummingbird cake and a cake on a cake stand behind it.

Annika Panikker

So, the Hummingbird Cake perplexes me, because, well, I cant stop eating it.

What Is Hummingbird Cake?

Good for you, right?

Overhead view of southern hummingbird cake on a blue cake stand and plates with slices on it.

Annika Panikker

Hummingbird cake has to be one of the sweetest, most scrumptious cakes around.

Given their love for sugary nectar, one has to imagine hummingbirds would love to feast on this cake.

But tough luck, hummingbirds!

Overhead view of a table set with multiple plates of southern hummingbird cake.

Annika Panikker

No ones leaving this cake outside unattended.

This version differs from the basic one only slightly.

Its a wonderfully simple cake to make, with impressive results on all counts.

Whisking flour mixture in a bowl to make a hummingbird cake recipe.

Annika Panikker

The assembled cake can be left at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Let it come to room temperature for an hour or two before serving.

Let slices come to room temperature before serving.

Mixing batter to make a hummingbird cake recipe in a glass bowl.

Annika Panikker

Most sources advise erring on the side of caution and refrigerating it.

Better safe than sorry!

Turning Cake Into Cupcakes

This recipe makes great cupcakes!

Pouring batter into a cake pan to make a hummingbird cake.

Annika Panikker

(When the toothpick emerges clean, the cupcakes are ready.)

Where Does Hummingbird Cake Come From?

The hummingbird, also known as doctor bird, is the island’s national bird.

Overhead view of three southern hummingbird cake layers set on a cooling rack.

Annika Panikker

Looking for More Classic Cakes?

Hummingbird Cake

The cream cheese frosting recipe can be cut in half if you prefer less frosting.

If so, apply sparingly so there is enough to cover the entire cake.

Whisking attachment whipping frosting for a hummingbird cake recipe.

Annika Panikker

Or, simply omit the liquor and use 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.

Butter and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

In a separate bowl, whisk the canola oil, sugar, and eggs together until combined.

A person in a striped apron spreading frosting on a layer of hummingbird cake on a cake stand.

Annika Panikker

Pour the batter into the three prepared cake pans, taking care to divide evenly.

Cool the cakes in the pans on wire racks for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, run a knife around the edges and remove the cakes from the pans.

Cake stand with hummingbird cake and blue plates with slices set around it.

Annika Panikker

Cool completely on wire racks before frosting.

Beat the softened butter and cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer.

(yo do not ask me how I know this.)

Sprinkle the top completely with the remaining cup of chopped pecans (toasted or un-toasted).

Alternatively, press the chopped pecans onto the sides of the cake and leave the top simply frosted.