If you’ve never tasted hummingbird cake, imagine the flavor explosion of banana bread upgraded with pineapple, cinnamon, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Now, take that same rich, fruity, and spiced vibe, and turn it into a one-bowl, loaf-style bread. That’s what you get with this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting: an easy, wildly flavorful bake that delivers tropical warmth and Southern charm in every slice.
The name might sound whimsical, but this bread is all business when it comes to taste. Moist and tender from mashed bananas and crushed pineapple, it’s spiced just right and lightly sweetened to let the fruits shine. It’s the kind of treat that works for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, it’s topped with a thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting that takes it straight into irresistible territory.
What makes this loaf particularly special is its texture. Thanks to the combination of banana and pineapple, the crumb is soft and dense but never heavy. It practically melts in your mouth, and the flavor deepens even more the day after baking. Add chopped pecans for crunch, or leave them out for a smoother bite—either way, it delivers.
You don’t need a mixer to make the batter, and it comes together in about 10 minutes. It’s great for gatherings, brunches, or gifting. Wrap it up with a bow, and you’ve got a homemade gift that feels thoughtful and indulgent.
Hummingbird bread is a showstopper that requires minimal effort. It’s a one-bowl wonder that tastes like you spent all day baking it. And don’t be surprised if people ask for the recipe—just be ready to share.
Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Frosting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add eggs, oil, vanilla, mashed banana, and crushed pineapple. Stir until combined. Fold in pecans, if using.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting: beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Mix in vanilla and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Spread frosting generously over cooled bread. Slice and serve.
Tips:
- For extra flair, sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the frosting.
- Make sure the bread is completely cool before frosting to avoid melting.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a no-fuss recipe with impressive flavor.
- Sweet, fruity, spiced—this loaf has it all.
- The cream cheese frosting is creamy, tangy, and perfectly matched.
- It makes a great gift or brunch centerpiece.
This Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, flavorful loaf packed with banana, pineapple, and spice—and topped with rich, tangy frosting. Easy to make and impossible to resist, it’s a loaf that feels like home.
Baking these now!