Southern Hummingbird Cake

This Southern Hummingbird Cake combines the traditional flavors of ripe bananas and crushed pineapple with a hint of warm spices, creating a moist and flavorful dessert. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, bringing a touch of Southern charm to your table. It respects dietary preferences by being naturally sweet without the need for excessive added sugars.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Stir in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple into the wet ingredients.
5. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
11. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or banana slices if desired. Slice and serve!