Hummingbird Bread is a wonderfully moist, flavorful quick bread that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple, the richness of bananas, and a hint of spice from cinnamon. Inspired by the classic Hummingbird Cake, this bread version captures all the delicious flavors in a simpler, loaf form, making it perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. The star of the show, however, is the luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting, which elevates this bread into something truly special. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, Hummingbird Bread is a treat that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
For the bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the cinnamon cream cheese frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the lightly beaten eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir in the crushed pineapple and mashed bananas until well blended.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread. If you like a bit of crunch, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent the bread with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the frosting.
Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bread is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Frost the Bread
Once the bread is completely cooled, generously spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting on top. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish if you like.
Step 9: Serve
Slice the Hummingbird Bread and enjoy! It can be served as is or slightly chilled for a firmer texture to the frosting.
Conclusion:
Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and versatile treat that packs the flavors of a classic cake into a more casual loaf. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and pecans creates a moist, flavorful bread, while the cinnamon-spiced cream cheese frosting adds a rich, sweet finish. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with your favorite hot beverage, and you’ll find it hard to stop at just one slice!