Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly heartwarming treat that combines tropical sweetness with a warmly spiced finish, this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine moist, tender bread infused with ripe bananas and crushed pineapple, bursting with flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, all topped off with a luxuriously creamy frosting kissed by cinnamon. This Southern-inspired delight feels like a big hug on a plate, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you need a little pick-me-up with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this hummingbird bread lies in simple but thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a key role—from the ripeness of the bananas providing natural sweetness and moisture, to the spices that give just the right cozy warmth.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its structure and soft crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavors.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Brings moisture and a hint of caramel depth.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and become wonderfully tender.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brightens all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The signature spice that ties the dish together with warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle hint of earthiness that complements the cinnamon.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with a gentle sweetness.
• 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained): Infuses tropical juiciness and tang.
• 2 ripe bananas (mashed): Adds natural sweetness and softness to the bread.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional): Provides a satisfying crunch and a nutty undertone.

For the frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The creamy base that makes this frosting irresistible.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Adds smoothness and richness.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Imparts that signature warm spice to the frosting.

How to Make Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring it’s hot and ready for your batter. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly so your bread doesn’t stick and comes out effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combination creates the flavorful foundation of your hummingbird bread, with the spices delivering those warm, fragrant notes you’ll love.

Step 3: Combine Your Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended. Then stir in the crushed pineapple and mashed bananas for a burst of tropical sweetness and moisture that makes this bread one-of-a-kind.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make your bread tough. If you’re adding pecans, fold them in now — these little nuggets add delightful crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible as it bakes!

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting

Let your beautiful loaf cool completely in the pan before removing it. This step is crucial because the cream cheese frosting will melt if applied to warm bread, and we want that thick, luscious layer intact.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Meanwhile, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, continuing to beat until fluffy and spreadable. This frosting is the perfect sweet and spicy complement to your hummingbird bread.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy

Once the bread has fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly across the top. Slice generously and prepare to be amazed by the marriage of flavors and textures in every bite.

How to Serve Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle additional chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top of the frosting. Adding fresh banana slices or small pineapple chunks on the side can add a fresh, bright burst of flavor and charm.

Side Dishes

This hummingbird bread pairs beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a creamy chai latte, enhancing its warm spice profile. If serving at brunch, a dollop of Greek yogurt or fresh fruit salad on the side can balance its sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to add a homey feel. Layer slices with frosting between them to make a mini cake stack at dessert time. Another idea is to turn leftover bread into French toast for a delightful twist the next morning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After frosting, keep the bread covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain the frosting’s freshness and keep the bread tender for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying later without losing any magic.

Freezing

If you want to save some for even later, this bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It stays delicious for about 2 months frozen. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting or serving.

Reheating

For a warm, cozy treat, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Add frosting after warming for that creamy cool contrast that makes every bite special.

FAQs

Can I substitute nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or have allergies, walnuts are a great alternative. You can also leave the nuts out entirely, and your bread will still be deliciously moist and flavorful.

Is it possible to make a lighter version of this bread?

Yes, you can reduce the oil to half a cup and replace the other quarter cup with unsweetened applesauce. This tweak lowers fat but keeps the bread moist and tender without sacrificing taste.

Do I have to use fresh bananas and pineapple?

Ripe bananas are best for their natural sweetness and moisture, but you can use frozen pineapple chunks that have been thoroughly drained as a substitute. Juice or canned pineapple isn’t recommended due to excess liquid affecting the texture.

Can I turn this into muffins instead of a loaf?

Definitely! Spoon the batter into muffin tins lined with paper cups and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and test with a toothpick to ensure they’re cooked through. Frost as you would the loaf once cooled.

How long does the frosting keep on the bread?

The cinnamon cream cheese frosting tastes best within 2 to 3 days of spreading. Keep the bread refrigerated and covered to maintain freshness and prevent the frosting from drying out.

Final Thoughts

The beautiful thing about this Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is how it transforms everyday ingredients into a treasure of flavor and warmth. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it with a quiet cup of coffee, it’s a treat that feels like home in every bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to bake this soon and watch it become your new go-to favorite!

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