Cake Mix Hummingbird Cake

Cake Mix Hummingbird Cake - The Itsy-Bitsy Kitchen

Cake Mix Hummingbird Cake image source: itsybitsykitchen.com

Table of Contents Show

Are you ready to indulge in a heavenly slice of cake that will leave your taste buds begging for more? Look no further than the delectable cake mix hummingbird cake. This delightful dessert combines the flavors of banana, pineapple, and cinnamon to create a truly unforgettable treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress.

Cake Mix Hummingbird Cake Overview

In this cake mix hummingbird cake, you’ll find a harmonious blend of moist cake layers, rich cream cheese frosting, and a sprinkling of crunchy pecans. The star ingredients of this recipe are a cake mix, crushed pineapple, mashed bananas, and chopped pecans. The magic of this cake lies in its simplicity, as the cake mix takes the guesswork out of measuring and combining dry ingredients. With just a few additional components, you’ll have a cake that looks and tastes like it was made from scratch.

One of the highlights of the cake mix hummingbird cake is its incredible versatility. If you’re looking to make this recipe suitable for dietary preferences or restrictions, there are a few substitutions you can make. For those following a gluten-free diet, try using a gluten-free cake mix. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting. Additionally, you can swap the pecans for walnuts or omit them altogether if you have nut allergies.

The cake mix hummingbird cake takes approximately 45 minutes to bake. Once it’s done, you’ll be rewarded with a beautifully golden cake that boasts a hint of caramelized sweetness. This recipe yields 10 to 12 servings, making it the perfect dessert for a family gathering or special occasion.

Ingredients:

1 box of yellow cake mix
1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, crushed pineapple (including the juice), mashed bananas, chopped pecans, eggs, vegetable oil, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one cake layer with cream cheese frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
Garnish with additional pecans, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1 slice of cake
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrate: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 4g

Cooking Time & Servings:

The cake mix hummingbird cake requires a baking time of approximately 45 minutes. This recipe yields 10 to 12 servings, depending on the size of your cake slices.

Equipment:

To make the cake mix hummingbird cake, you’ll need the following equipment:

2 9-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Cake spatula or offset spatula
Wire cooling rack

Serving Suggestions:

The cake mix hummingbird cake is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a tropical twist, try topping each slice with a few slices of fresh pineapple and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. To add a touch of elegance, garnish the cake with edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea for a truly delightful treat.

Variation Ideas:

Add a cream cheese filling between the cake layers for an extra decadent touch.
Replace the pecans with chopped macadamia nuts for a unique twist.
Try adding a handful of shredded coconut to the cake batter for added texture.
For a chocolate lover’s twist, stir in a half cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter.

Substitutions:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.
Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or replace them with chopped sunflower seeds.

Storage:

To maintain the freshness and flavor of the cake mix hummingbird cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before placing it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Tips:

To ensure a moist cake, avoid overmixing the batter.
For a deeper flavor, toast the pecans before incorporating them into the batter.
To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, apply a thin layer of shortening or use parchment paper to line the bottoms.
For a professional-looking presentation, use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to even out the tops of the cake layers before frosting.

Notes:

This cake is perfect for celebrations, parties, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Feel free to personalize the decoration by adding edible flowers or sprinkles.
You can make this cake ahead of time and freeze it, making it a convenient dessert option.
For an extra touch of elegance, dust the finished cake with a sprinkle of edible gold or silver dust.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply chop it into small pieces and use the same amount as the crushed pineapple called for in the recipe.

Can I make this cake without bananas?

The bananas add moisture and flavor to the cake. However, if you don’t have bananas or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with applesauce in equal amounts.

Can I make this cake in a different pan size?

Yes, you can adjust the baking time and pan size accordingly. For example, if you prefer a single-layer cake, you can use a 9×13-inch baking pan and increase the baking time by a few minutes.

Can I freeze the cream cheese frosting?

It is not recommended to freeze cream cheese frosting as it can change in texture and become grainy once thawed. It’s best to prepare the frosting fresh when you’re ready to frost the cake.

Personal Thought

The cake mix hummingbird cake is a true delight that will transport you to cake heaven with each mouthful. The combination of banana, pineapple, and cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing. The moist texture of the cake, complemented by the creamy cream cheese frosting and the crunch of pecans, is simply divine.

This recipe is a true time-saver, thanks to the use of a cake mix. It takes the stress out of measuring and combining dry ingredients, allowing you to focus on the fun part – baking and enjoying! Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Experiment with different variations, such as adding a cream cheese filling or swapping out the pecans for macadamia nuts. And if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to make substitutions that suit your needs. The cake mix hummingbird cake is versatile and can easily be adapted to accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free diets.

Prepare to receive compliments and requests for the recipe when you serve this cake at gatherings or events. Its beautiful presentation and irresistible taste will make it the star of any dessert table. So, go ahead and whip up this cake mix hummingbird cake – your taste buds will thank you!

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this cake mix hummingbird cake as much as we do. If you have any questions, feedback, or variations you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you. Happy baking!