This Hummingbird Bread is a delightful twist on the classic Southern Hummingbird Cake. Packed with tropical flavors of banana and pineapple, this moist and fragrant bread is topped with a rich cream cheese frosting for the perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s an irresistible treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Ingredients

For the Hummingbird Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 🧂
• ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌿
• ½ cup unsalted butter , melted 🧈
• ¾ cup granulated sugar 🍚
• ½ cup packed brown sugar 🍯
• 2 large eggs 🥚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 medium bananas) 🍌
• ½ cup crushed pineapple , drained (reserve juice for optional glaze) 🍍
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for added crunch) 🌰

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese , softened 🧈
• ¼ cup unsalted butter , softened 🧈
• 2 cups powdered sugar , sifted 🍚
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or reserved pineapple juice (for consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour , baking soda , salt , and cinnamon . Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter , granulated sugar , and brown sugar until well combined.
2. Add the eggs , one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract .
3. Fold in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple (drained). If using nuts, stir them in gently.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix—this ensures the bread stays tender and moist.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 50–60 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar , one cup at a time, beating on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase the speed and beat until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract . Add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or reserved pineapple juice as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

1. Once the bread is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. For a decorative touch, sprinkle lightly toasted nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top.

Tips for Success

• Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Pineapple Juice Glaze (Optional): Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 teaspoons of reserved pineapple juice for a drizzle over the frosted bread.
• Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hummingbird Bread is a tropical twist on traditional banana bread, combining the sweetness of bananas, the tang of pineapple, and the warmth of cinnamon. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious finish, making it feel indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert or a special treat to brighten your day, this bread delivers on flavor and texture.

Indulge in this moist, tropical delight—it’s like a vacation in every slice!