Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors and textures that come together in a Hummingbird Cake, a classic Southern dessert beloved for its moist, flavorful base and rich frosting. Today, I’m thrilled to share a twist on this traditional cake – the Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This version maintains the essence of the original cake but in a simpler, bread-like form that’s perfect for any occasion, from brunches to afternoon tea. Let’s dive into the recipe and baking tips that will help you bring this tropical delight to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring this Hummingbird Bread to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Bread:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup pineapple, diced and patted dry
• ½ cup chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ⅓ cup chopped pecans for garnishing

Directions for Baking

1. Prepare for Baking:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your loaf pan ready by coating it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your bread will release smoothly once baked.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

Start by mixing the mashed bananas, sugars, egg, and oil in a large bowl until well combined. This mixture is the base of your bread, providing moisture and sweetness. Next, sift in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined to keep the bread tender. Finally, fold in the shredded coconut, diced pineapple, and chopped pecans, which add texture and those signature hummingbird flavors.

3. Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before frosting; this ensures the frosting won’t melt when applied.

4. Prepare the Frosting:

While the bread cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. This frosting will add a creamy, spicy contrast to the bread.

5. Frost and Garnish:

Once the bread has cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for a crunchy finish that adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Serving and Storage

Slice the Hummingbird Bread and serve as a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table, no matter the season. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting, and enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion

Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful spin on the classic cake, offering the same irresistible combination of flavors in a new form. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to this tropical delight today!

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