Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking to delight your taste buds with something that bursts with tropical charm and warm spices, then you absolutely must try this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This moist, flavorful loaf combines ripe bananas, pineapple, coconut, and pecans to create a symphony of textures and tastes, all layered beneath a luscious, cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a gentle hug in every bite and is perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon treats that bring a smile with every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays a key role—from the sweetness of ripe bananas and pineapple to the crunchy pecans and the aromatic hint of cinnamon, culminating in that irresistible cream cheese frosting.

• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the fruit and spices.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Gives a deeper, caramel-like flavor and extra moisture to the bread.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread wonderfully moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the other flavors.
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour: Creates the base of the bread’s texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with the acidic pineapple and bananas to give a soft crumb.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that complements the fruit beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed: Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor.
• 1 cup shredded coconut: Offers a tropical texture and flavor punch.
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (with juice): Brings juicy sweetness and tenderizes the bread.
• 1 cup chopped pecans, divided: Adds crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft bread.
• Optional add-ons (½ cup chocolate chips or dried fruit): Customize your loaf with extra bursts of sweetness or chewiness.

How to Make Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your bread releases effortlessly after baking. This sets you up for success right from the start.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing after each addition. This creates a silky base that will carry the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate Your Fruit and Coconut

Stir in the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple including the juice, and shredded coconut. This step is where the bread starts to come alive with tropical sweetness and a luscious texture that’s utterly irresistible.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. These dry ingredients will balance and lift the bread as it bakes.

Step 5: Blend the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so be careful to stop as soon as the flour disappears into the batter.

Step 6: Add Pecans and Optional Extras

Fold in ¾ cup of chopped pecans and any optional ingredients you love, such as chocolate chips or dried fruit for more bursts of flavor and texture.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of pecans on top for a lovely crunch. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a beautifully baked loaf.

Step 8: Cool Before Frosting

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set the crumb, then transfer it to a wire rack until completely cool. This ensures your cinnamon cream cheese frosting won’t melt and slide off when applied.

How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Once your Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is frosted generously, consider adding extra chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top. These little touches elevate both the presentation and the sensory experience, making each slice feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This bread shines as a standalone treat but pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai tea. For brunch spreads, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a balanced and colorful plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dessert centerpiece, slice the bread thick and stack with layers of cinnamon cream cheese frosting between each slice, creating a layered cake effect. Or consider turning slices into decadent French toast for breakfast with a drizzle of maple syrup and some toasted coconut flakes on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the bread moist, so every bite stays delightful.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the unfrosted bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add your luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting just before serving.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel. Avoid reheating the entire loaf to prevent frosting melt and texture change—fresh frosting after warming is ideal.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts are a fantastic alternative that pair just as nicely with the tropical flavors in the Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to use crushed pineapple with juice?

Yes, the juice adds moisture and acidity which help create a tender crumb and balance the sweetness. Using drained pineapple can result in a drier loaf.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.

How thick should I frost the bread?

A generous layer about ¼ to ½ inch thick works wonderfully—thick enough to complement the flavors but not overwhelm the delicate texture of the bread.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Fresh pineapple can be used, but it’s best to crush it finely and include a little pineapple juice or water to replace the moisture from canned juice. This helps maintain the bread’s perfect consistency.

Final Thoughts

I simply cannot recommend making this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting enough. The explosion of flavors, the moist tenderness, and that dreamy frosting create a treat that’s as cozy as it is exciting. Whether you’re sharing it with friends over coffee or indulging in a quiet moment, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Trust me, baking and savoring this loaf will brighten your day in the most delicious way.

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