Hummingbird Bread with Heavenly Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

A Tropical Twist on Comfort Baking

Hummingbird Bread is the sweet, spiced lovechild of banana bread and Southern Hummingbird Cake, and once you try this version, you may never go back to plain banana bread again. This moist, flavorful loaf is a celebration of warm spices, tropical fruit, and indulgent textures. With juicy pineapple, crunchy pecans, and sweet shredded coconut folded into a tender banana base, it’s already a winner—but then we crown it with cinnamon cream cheese frosting for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.

Whether you’re making this for brunch, dessert, or as a thoughtful edible gift, it checks every box: easy to make, stunning to serve, and impossible to resist

Why You’ll Love This Tropical Hummingbird Bread

• Moist and Flavor-Packed: Bananas, pineapple, and oil make the crumb incredibly tender.
• Bursting with Texture: Chopped pecans, shredded coconut, and juicy pineapple offer crunch and chew.
• Dreamy Frosting: Cinnamon cream cheese frosting is tangy, sweet, and aromatic.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, tea parties, or a cozy weekend bake.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays moist for days and even better the next day.

The Secret to the Signature Flavor: Star Ingredients

Ripe Bananas

These are the backbone of any banana-based bread. Make sure they’re well-ripened with brown spots for maximum sweetness and depth of flavor.

Crushed Pineapple (or diced and patted dry)

Adds bursts of juicy sweetness and a distinct tropical vibe. It also brings added moisture, enhancing the softness of the loaf.

Sweetened Shredded Coconut

Not only does it deepen the tropical notes, but it also adds a gentle chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the crumb.

Chopped Pecans

Classic to Southern Hummingbird Cake, pecans bring a buttery crunch and nutty warmth that elevates every bite.

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

This luscious, velvety frosting tops everything off with a spiced tang that perfectly complements the sweetness below. It’s optional, but let’s be real: you’re going to want it.

Complete Ingredients List

For the Bread:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup diced pineapple (patted dry if using canned)
• ½ cup chopped pecans

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Toppings:

• Extra chopped pecans
• Pineapple tidbits
• Toasted coconut flakes

How to Make Hummingbird Bread Step-by-Step

1. Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy release.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and oil. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Fold the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.

5. Add the Tropical Goodies

Fold in the shredded coconut, diced pineapple, and chopped pecans.

6. Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool Completely

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

8. Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

9. Frost and Decorate

Once the loaf is completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. Decorate with extra pecans and pineapple if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Hummingbird Bread Every Time

• Use very ripe bananas: Brown-speckled bananas not only mash easily but also add maximum natural sweetness and banana flavor.

• Drain the pineapple well: Press canned pineapple between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This keeps the loaf from becoming soggy.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until the dry ingredients disappear to keep the crumb tender.

• Cool before frosting: Applying frosting to a warm loaf will cause it to melt and slide off. Patience pays off.

• Toast the nuts: For even more flavor, toast your pecans before adding them to the batter and as a topping.

Delicious Variations to Try

1. Hummingbird Muffins: Divide batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 20–22 minutes. Great for meal prep.

2. Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

3. Lightened-Up Frosting: Use Greek yogurt cream cheese and reduce powdered sugar for a tangier, lower-sugar frosting.

4. Add Warm Spices: Try adding ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a spiced banana bread feel.

5. Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg, use dairy-free cream cheese and butter, and opt for maple syrup instead of honey if adjusting sweetness.

How to Serve This Hummingbird Bread

• Brunch Centerpiece: Serve thick slices with coffee or a tropical fruit spritzer.

• Holiday Treat: A great addition to Easter, Mother’s Day, or Christmas brunch.

• Gift Loaf: Wrap in parchment and tie with twine—makes a thoughtful homemade hostess gift.

• Dessert Plate: Warm slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel drizzle.

• Tea-Time Snack: Pair with a mild herbal or chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Storing and Freezing Hummingbird Bread

Refrigeration:
Store the frosted loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let slices come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing (Unfrosted):
Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

Freezing Frosted:
It’s possible to freeze frosted slices by placing them on a tray to flash freeze, then wrapping tightly. The frosting texture may change slightly after thawing.

Reheating:
Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds, or use a toaster oven to warm gently and restore freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes. Just dice it small and pat it dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Do I have to frost it?
No. The bread is flavorful enough on its own, but the frosting adds a delicious layer of indulgence.

Can I make this as a cake?
Yes. Use an 8-inch round or square cake pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Is this bread very sweet?
It’s sweet but well-balanced thanks to the bananas and tangy cream cheese. You can slightly reduce the sugar if desired.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 6–8 minutes until fragrant. Cool before using.

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Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Quick Bread

This Hummingbird Bread recipe isn’t just a twist on banana bread—it’s a celebration of texture and flavor, blending classic Southern charm with tropical brightness. It’s easy to make, beautiful to serve, and satisfying to eat. Whether for brunch, dessert, or gifting, this loaf delivers comfort in every slice.