If you’re craving a dessert that marries tropical flavors with a cozy spice blend, look no further than the Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This delightful loaf is a harmonious blend of ripe bananas, sweet pineapple, warm cinnamon, and crunchy pecans, all wrapped up in a moist, tender crumb. Topped with a luxuriously smooth cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting, this bread feels like a comforting hug in every bite. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring it solo, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite that brings a burst of sunshine and sweetness to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each element plays its part, creating a symphony of moistness, spice, and sweetness that is nothing short of irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, tender crumb that holds all the delicious mix-ins.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Brings the classic sweetness that balances the tropical fruits.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a rich, caramel-like depth and extra moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: A leavening agent that helps your bread rise perfectly fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses a warm, comforting spice throughout the bread.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Offers a subtle, nutty undertone to complement the cinnamon.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients while adding richness and tenderness.
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and silky without weighing it down.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a layer of aromatic sweetness.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas): Provides natural sweetness and an irresistibly creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Brings tropical zest and moisture with a perfect tang.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds crunch and a toasty nutty flavor, elevating every bite.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the frosting that makes every slice decadently creamy.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Combines with cream cheese for a smooth, rich frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s silky sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a warm spice kick to the frosting, tying it beautifully to the bread.
How to Make Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a loaf pan or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your bread bakes evenly and comes out effortlessly, ready to be adorned with frosting.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and drained crushed pineapple. This mixture is the heart of your Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, packing the tropical flavors and moisture you crave.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These dry ingredients bring the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, preparing the batter’s structure.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so aim for a harmonious blend that still feels slightly lumpy. Now, fold in the chopped pecans, letting the crunch peek through every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and tropical fruit—a sign that something wonderful is underway.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While your bread cools, whip together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, beating until the frosting reaches a luscious, spreadable consistency. This frosting is what truly makes this recipe shine, marrying tangy and sweet with a hint of spice.
Step 7: Frost and Garnish
Once the bread has cooled completely, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional pecan pieces over the frosting for texture and a beautiful finishing touch. Your Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is now ready to dazzle.
How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of flair is easy and fun. Consider garnishing your bread with extra chopped pecans for crunch and a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg to deepen the warm flavor notes. A drizzle of honey or a few edible flowers can also elevate the presentation, making each slice feel like a slice of heaven.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, perfect for breakfast gatherings or afternoon tea. For a playful twist, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Fresh fruit, such as sliced mango or strawberries, complements the tropical essence brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Cut the bread into thick slices and toast them lightly for a warm, inviting treat. You can also turn it into mini loaf cakes for gifting or party favors. Layer slices with frosting in a trifle dish for a stunning, deconstructed take on Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that will impress everyone.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Hummingbird Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days at room temperature and 7 days if refrigerated, allowing you to enjoy that incredible flavor long after baking day.
Freezing
You can freeze this bread either before or after frosting. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Frozen bread maintains its quality for up to 3 months, so you always have a sweet treat ready when the craving hits.
Reheating
To revive the bread’s soft texture, thaw frozen slices at room temperature and warm them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This brings back that freshly baked feel and makes the frosting irresistibly creamy again.
FAQs
Can I substitute ingredients in the Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap pecans for walnuts or omit nuts altogether if you prefer. Coconut flakes can be added for extra tropical flair. Just keep the banana and pineapple to maintain the classic flavor profile.
Is it necessary to drain the crushed pineapple?
Yes, draining the pineapple helps prevent the batter from becoming too wet, ensuring a perfect texture. If your pineapple is very juicy, you might pat it dry with paper towels for best results.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done. The surface should also be golden brown and spring back slightly when pressed.
Can I make mini muffins using this recipe?
Definitely! Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. Mini muffins make a fun, portable version of this flavorful recipe.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese for the frosting?
Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This prevents lumps and helps create a luxuriously smooth frosting that spreads effortlessly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly joyful about baking and sharing Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s a dish bursting with warmth, sunshine, and just the right amount of spice, perfect for any occasion that calls for comfort with a twist. I can’t wait for you to try it – it might just become your go-to recipe that brightens your day and delights everyone lucky enough to taste it!
Print
Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hummingbird Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread inspired by the classic Hummingbird Cake. Packed with ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and warm spices, it offers a delightful tropical taste. Topped with a rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Additional chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare loaf pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients, then add dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until combined. Stir in mashed bananas and crushed pineapple. In a separate bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Fold in nuts. Gently fold in the chopped pecans (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing.
- Bake until golden brown. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare frosting and spread over cooled bread. While the bread is baking, prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and cinnamon for extra flavor. Once the bread has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle with pecans. Garnish the frosted bread with additional chopped pecans for added texture and presentation. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the bread from becoming too moist or soggy.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
- The bread is best served the day after baking as the flavors meld beautifully.
- Store covered in the refrigerator; the cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration.
