Irresistible Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe Grandma Style

Craving a moist, spiced, old-fashioned dessert just like Grandma made it? Jump straight to the video and learn how to bake the top-rated traditional hummingbird cake — banana, pineapple, pecans, and love in every bite!

Introduction

The Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe Grandma Style is one of the most popular desserts with a rich history in Caribbean and Southern homes. The healthy southern cake recipe, which boasts a moist consistency and tropical taste due to bananas, pineapple, and pecans, has been one of the most loved desserts in many homes for generations.

In this blog post, we’re going to take you on a taste adventure through its history, present a traditional recipe that’s been passed down from generation to generation, and provide healthier substitutions and tips to indulge in this beloved treat with a new twist.

History and Origin of Old-fashioned Hummingbird Cake: A Transatlantic Journey

The history of the Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe Grandma Style starts in Jamaica, where it was first known as “Doctor Bird Cake.” The Doctor Bird, or Swallow-Tailed Hummingbird, is Jamaica’s national bird.

Admired for its shimmering feathers and long, forked tail, it’s possible that the cake’s original name was inspired by this beautiful bird. Maybe the niceness of the cake and its power to entice happy diners was similar to the nectar that entices the Doctor Bird.

The road of this tasty cake to the American South probably came through the sharing of recipes and food traditions throughout the Caribbean and the American South.

Although the route is not documented, historical trade networks and migration currents might have made it possible for it to be brought in.

By the 1970s,  Old-fashioned Hummingbird Cake was in vogue in the South, and its recipe, with its characteristic combination of bananas, pineapple, and pecans, solidified as a beloved Southern dessert, a reflection of the openness of the South to various types of culinary influences.

Why is it called Hummingbird Cake? A Sweet Allure

The nickname “Hummingbird Cake” is a delightful echo of the cake’s irresistible nature. As hummingbirds are inevitably attracted to the sweet nectar of flowers, this cake, with its rich combination of bananas and pineapple, entices anyone with a sweet tooth.

If you’re looking for a nostalgic twist, a traditional hummingbird cake recipe grandma style brings the warmth of tradition, often passed down through generations, ensuring every bite is as comforting as it is delicious.

Aside from the flavor, the cake’s visual beauty, speckled with bright bits of fruit and crunchy pecans, may also earn it its name, sharing a resemblance to the bright flowers that draw these small, nimble birds.

Lastly, the name suggests the cake’s wonderful lightness; its soft crumb is so lovely that it appears to vanish in a moment, as if the cake has flown away.

Healthy or Neutral Ingredients (with Benefits):

3 large ripe bananas, mashed

• Benefits: High in potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6. Natural sweetener.
• Tip: Overripe bananas add moisture and sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.

1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)

• Benefits: Rich in vitamin C, manganese, and enzymes like bromelain (aids digestion). Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• Tip: Use pineapple in its juice (not syrup) to keep sugar lower.

1 cup chopped pecans

• Benefits: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. Good for heart health.

2 large eggs

• Benefits: Great source of high-quality protein, vitamins B12, D, and choline.
• Optional Substitute (if needed): Use flax eggs or chia eggs for a vegan option.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Benefits: Contains antioxidants and adds flavor without calories.
• Tip: Use pure vanilla extract for best quality.

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• Drawback: Refined flour lacks fiber and can spike blood sugar.
• Healthier Substitute: Use whole wheat flour(same quantity), spelt flour (same quantity), or a 50/50 mix with oat flour (use 1 ⅛ cup whole wheat flour and 1 ⅛ cup oat flour) to retain texture and improve fiber content.

1 teaspoon baking powder &  1 teaspoon baking soda

• Note: These are leavening agents. Safe in small amounts but excessive use can increase sodium.
• Tip: Keep them as is, but watch total sodium if you’re salt-sensitive.

1 teaspoon salt

• Drawback: Excess sodium can affect blood pressure.
• Healthier Tip: You can reduce it to ½ teaspoon if other ingredients have flavor.

1 cup granulated sugar

• Drawback: High in refined sugar contributes to weight gain, blood sugar spikes.
• Healthier Substitute: Use coconut sugar, honey, maple syrup, or monk fruit sweetener. Also, since bananas and pineapple add sweetness, you can cut this down to ½ to ¾ cup.

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• Drawback: High in saturated fat.
• Healthier Substitute: Use unsweetened applesauce, mashed avocado, or Greek yogurt (partial swap) to reduce fat but maintain moisture.

Cream cheese frosting

• Drawback: High in sugar and saturated fat.
• Healthier Alternatives:
  • Greek yogurt + cream cheese blend
  • Cashew-based frosting (blended soaked cashews + maple syrup + lemon juice)
  • Or a light drizzle of honey + cinnamon over the cake for a lighter option.

Baking Process:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, and eggs. Beat until light and fluffy.
4. Add mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add flour mixture and chopped pecans. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Healthy Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ⅓ cup light cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
• 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Chill before spreading.

Assembly and Garnishing:

• Allow cakes to cool completely.
• Spread cream cheese frosting between layers and on top of the cake.
• Garnish with chopped pecans or fresh flowers.

Tips and Variations:

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra spice.
• Replace pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
• Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Use high-quality ingredients. Fresh pineapple, real butter, and high-quality cream cheese make a big difference in the flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions:

Here are some delicious serving suggestions for Hummingbird Cake recipe grandma style:

• Fresh Fruit Garnish: Top slices with sliced bananas, juicy pineapple chunks, or a handful of berries for a refreshing touch and added flavor.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coconut-flavored ice cream to balance the cake’s moisture and richness.
• Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
• Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream sweetened with powdered sugar and vanilla extract for added richness and flavor.
• Serve with Coffee: Enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a classic touch.
• Cake Display: Use a cake stand to create an appealing presentation and add an elegant touch to your table setting.
• Beverage Pairings: Pair with sweet iced tea, tropical fruit punch, light white wine, or fruity rosé to enhance the flavors.

Some other occasions to serve Old-fashioned Hummingbird Cake include:

• Birthday Parties: A perfect dessert for celebrations and gatherings.
• Holiday Celebrations: Ideal for special occasions like Christmas or Easter.
• Potlucks: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to transport and serve.
• Casual Get-Togethers: Great for informal gatherings with friends or family.
• Afternoon Coffee: Serve as a sweet surprise with coffee or tea.

Nutrition Chart

Here is the nutrition chart for the Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe Grandma Style:

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving size: 1 slice (12-15 slices per cake)
• Servings per recipe: 12-15

Macro-Nutrients

• Calories: 520
• Total Fat: 28g
•     Saturated Fat: 16g
•     Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 62g
•     Dietary Fiber: 2g
•     Sugars: 42g
• Protein: 6g

Micro-Nutrients

• Vitamin A: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
• Calcium: 10% of the DV
• Iron: 8% of the DV
• Potassium: 12% of the DV
• Vitamin D: 0% of the DV
• Vitamin E: 10% of the DV
• Vitamin K: 10% of the DV

Other Nutrients

• Caffeine: 0mg
• Sugar Alcohols: 0g
• Artificial Sweeteners: 0g

Allergens

• Gluten: Contains wheat flour
• Dairy: Contains milk, cream cheese, and butter
• Eggs: Contains eggs
• Nuts: Contains pecans
• Soy: Does not contain soy

Special Diets

• Vegetarian: Suitable for lacto-ovo-vegetarians
• Vegan: Not suitable for vegans
• Gluten-Free: Not suitable for gluten-free diets
• Keto: Not suitable for ketogenic diets
• Low-Carb: Not suitable for low-carb diets

Please note that this nutrition chart is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Conclusion

Whether you remain loyal to the Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe Grandma Style, or venture into a healthy Southern cake recipe version, this dessert is forever a classic that fills any party with warmth and happiness.

With its exotic taste and rich history, the old-style hummingbird cake is not only a delicious dessert—it’s a representation of tradition, love, and camaraderie. Bake it with love, serve it with pride, and make memories to last a lifetime with those you love.

Don’t forget to share your beautiful cake photos with us or tag a friend who needs a slice of this Southern favorite!

FAQs: Traditional Hummingbird Cake Recipe Grandma Style