The best hummingbird sheet cake
If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that is as delightful as it is delicious, look no further than The best hummingbird sheet cake. With its tropical flavors and moist, tender crumb, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. It’s a perfect blend of bananas, pineapple, and warm spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes it over the top. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a great choice for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. So, let’s dive in and discover why this cake deserves a spot in your baking repertoire!
Top Reasons to Make The best hummingbird sheet cake
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of bananas, pineapple, and warm spices creates a symphony of flavors that’s both refreshing and comforting.
- Easy to Prepare: This sheet cake is simple to whip up, making it a hassle-free option for any occasion.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, this recipe yields plenty of servings to share.
- Beautiful Presentation: Topped with cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with walnuts, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
What Goes Into The best hummingbird sheet cake
- 4 large free-range eggs: These add richness and moisture to the cake.
- 210 g (1 1/2 cups) white or light brown sugar: For sweetness and to help achieve that delightful caramelization.
- 250 ml (1 cup) sunflower oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 280 g (2 cups) cake flour: Provides a light texture that’s perfect for cakes.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda/baking soda: Works with the acids in the batter for leavening.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 tsp cloves: For a hint of spiciness.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Complements the other spices perfectly.
- 450 g (2 cups) finely chopped pineapple: Fresh or tinned, it adds moisture and sweet-tart flavor.
- 350-360 g (1 1/2 cups) roughly mashed banana: The star ingredient that makes this cake moist and flavorful.
- 3/4 cup walnuts: Chopped, for a crunchy texture contrast.
- 100 g butter (room temperature): For the frosting, it adds richness and flavor.
- 140 g President thick and smooth plain cream cheese: Creamy and tangy, perfect for frosting.
- 450 g (3 cups) icing sugar: For sweetness and to achieve the right frosting consistency.
- 2 tsp lemon juice: Brightens up the frosting and balances the sweetness.
- Extra chopped walnuts or pecan nuts: For decoration and added crunch.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Mixing bowls: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
- Whisk or electric mixer: To beat the eggs and mix the batter smoothly.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in the ingredients.
- Baking sheet: Use a 9×13 inch pan for even baking.
- Cooling rack: Essential for cooling the cake properly before frosting.
- Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the cream cheese frosting evenly.
The best hummingbird sheet cake in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until well combined. Gradually add the sunflower oil and mix until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Add Fruits and Nuts
Fold in the finely chopped pineapple, mashed bananas, and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the icing sugar and mix until creamy. Finally, add the lemon juice and mix until well combined.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. Decorate with extra chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely finish.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Cut the cake into squares, serve, and enjoy the delightful flavors of The best hummingbird sheet cake with your friends and family!
Make It Fit Your Plan
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based butter. Use coconut cream instead of cream cheese for frosting.
- Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet cake without sacrificing moisture.
- Fruit Variations: Swap out the pineapple for mango or add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Cook’s Notes
For the best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps in achieving a smooth, well-blended batter. If you prefer a denser cake, you can use less baking powder and baking soda. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Make-Ahead & Storage
The best hummingbird sheet cake can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then frost.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds great flavor and moisture. Just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice before adding it to the batter.
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, ensure you are measuring your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake. Additionally, you can brush the cooled cake with a simple syrup to add moisture before frosting.
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or even almonds for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are chopped for even distribution throughout the cake.
How can I tell when my cake is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. If it comes out wet with batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Let’s Eat
This is it! The best hummingbird sheet cake is a beautiful, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tropical vibes and creamy frosting, it’s sure to please the crowd and leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want to indulge in a delightful treat, this recipe will not disappoint. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of baking this delicious cake. Happy baking!
The best hummingbird sheet cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Step 3: In another bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until well combined. Gradually add the sunflower oil and mix until smooth.
- Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Fold in the finely chopped pineapple, mashed bananas, and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Step 8: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the icing sugar and mix until creamy. Finally, add the lemon juice and mix until well combined.
- Step 9: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. Decorate with extra chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely finish.
- Step 10: Cut the cake into squares, serve, and enjoy the delightful flavors of The best hummingbird sheet cake with your friends and family!
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- For a denser cake, use less baking powder and baking soda.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
