If you have a soft spot for moist, warmly spiced quick breads that feel like an instant hug, this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Combining the lush sweetness of ripe bananas and pineapple with a gentle cinnamon and nutmeg spice, this bread is bursting with flavor. Then, topping it all off with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting adds a creamy tang that takes every bite to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s the kind of treat that feels both homey and a little bit special—perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or an impressive addition to brunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list; the ingredients are straightforward essentials that each add a unique touch to this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. From the richness of the bananas and pineapple to the aromatic hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, every component brings depth and texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to this tender bread.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds a clean, sweet base that balances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and caramel notes that enrich the bread’s taste.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent ensures your bread rises beautifully and stays light.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Essential for that soft, warming spice you want running through every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth with a slightly nutty, sweet aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and contributes richness.
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread incredibly moist without weighing it down.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely fragrance and sweet flavor complexity.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas): Adds natural sweetness and a velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained: Provides a punch of tropical juicy sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty undertone.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the frosting, creamy and tangy.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting silky smooth and rich.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to just the right level without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s sweetness and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A little extra spice in the frosting to tie everything together.
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). Grease and lightly flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your bread slides out effortlessly after baking. This step sets the stage for your bread’s perfect rise and golden finish.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until combined. Then, stir in the mashed bananas and drained crushed pineapple. This fruity mixture is what gives the bread its moist, tender crumb and vibrant flavor.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread light and fluffy.
Step 4: Fold in Pecans
If you love a bit of crunch, fold in the chopped pecans now. They bring a nice texture contrast to the moist bread and a nutty richness that complements the fruit perfectly. If you prefer, you can skip or swap these for walnuts or omit nuts altogether.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the heated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll notice a wonderfully golden brown crust that smells irresistible.
Step 6: Prepare and Spread the Frosting
While the bread cools completely, whisk together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until silky smooth and spreadable. Once your bread is cool to the touch, generously slather this cinnamon cream cheese frosting on top for that irresistible finishing touch.
How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on the frosted bread adds an inviting look and extra crunch. For a seasonal twist, a few toasted coconut flakes also look beautiful and enhance the tropical notes.
Side Dishes
This bread shines bright all on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a creamy chai latte. If serving as part of a brunch, add fresh fruit or yogurt on the side to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bread and serve it as mini toasts with a dollop of frosting and a pecan half on top. It also makes an amazing base for a dessert trifle layered with whipped cream and crushed pineapple for a fresh and indulgent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover hummingbird bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator. This helps preserve the frosting’s freshness and keeps the bread moist for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted hummingbird bread wrapped securely in plastic wrap followed by foil or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost just before serving for best results.
Reheating
Gently warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel. Avoid reheating with frosting on as it can melt and become runny; instead, add frosting fresh after warming.
FAQs
Can I make this Hummingbird Bread without nuts?
Absolutely! The chopped pecans add texture and flavor, but the bread is delicious without them. You can also substitute with other nuts like walnuts or omit nuts entirely if you prefer or have allergies.
Is it necessary to drain the crushed pineapple?
Yes, draining the crushed pineapple is important to prevent the batter from becoming too wet, which can affect the bread’s texture and baking time. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove excess juice before mixing.
Can I use substitutes for the oil in the recipe?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or a mild olive oil for a slight flavor difference. Just avoid using butter in place of oil, as oil contributes to the moist, tender crumb unique to this bread.
How long does this bread last once frosted?
When stored well in the refrigerator, this hummingbird bread with cinnamon cream cheese frosting keeps beautifully for about 3 to 4 days. Beyond that, the texture and frosting quality may start to decline.
Can I make this recipe into cupcakes or muffins?
Yes! The batter works great for muffins or cupcakes. Just adjust baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick, and frost once completely cooled for a delightful twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe enough—it’s one of those baked goods that feels like coming home. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a cozy dessert, the flavors and textures come together so beautifully. I hope you give it a try and make it a special staple in your kitchen as it is in mine!
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Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10-12 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hummingbird Bread is a moist, flavorful quick bread featuring ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting and optional pecan garnish, it makes for an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
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)
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
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare loaf pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients, then add dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Add the mashed ripe bananas and crushed pineapple, stirring to combine. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Fold in pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter, if using, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Bake until golden brown: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare frosting: While the bread is baking, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon until combined.
- Frost and garnish: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, remove from the pan and spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for garnish if desired.
Notes
- Make sure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid making the batter too wet.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
- For a more intense cinnamon flavor, lightly toast the pecans with cinnamon before folding them into the batter.
- Store leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
