This classic Hummingbird Cake is one of those Southern desserts that feels like home. Sweet banana, juicy pineapple, and a hint of warm cinnamon come together in every soft, spiced, melt-in-your-mouth bite. It’s a cake that shows up for every occasion, from holidays to lazy Sunday afternoons when comfort food calls. Around here, this Hummingbird Cake isn’t just a recipe—it’s a family tradition.
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Hummingbird Cake: A Southern Family Tradition
In our family, food makes every season feel special. I still remember my Mamaws’ fried apple pies and pound cakes—just thinking about them takes me back. Desserts like these do more than fill a plate; they bring generations together.
Every year, when my mom bakes her famous Southern Hummingbird Cake recipe, it’s more than dessert—it’s a sweet reminder of family. This classic Southern cake will always have a spot on our holiday table.
🌲 Trekkn Trivia: The Sweet Story Behind Hummingbird Cake
Did you know? Hummingbird Cake has its roots in Jamaica, where it was called Doctor Bird Cake, named after the island’s national bird.
It made its way to the American South in the 1970s and quickly became a staple at holiday family gatherings. With banana, pineapple, and cozy spice in every bite, it’s certainly a true taste of Southern tradition—and just as unforgettable as it sounds.
Meme’s Hummingbird Cake Recipe
This Hummingbird Cake recipe comes straight from Meme’s kitchen. Her desserts have always been the heart of our family celebrations, and this one’s a favorite every time. It’s a sweet and simple cake that’s often requested during the holidays.
Meme’s Hummingbird Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oven to 350°
- Grease and flour cake pans (either three 8-inch or two 9-inch)
- Combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl, and use a fork to mix well.
- With a large wooden spoon, mix in the beaten eggs, oil, vanilla, pineapple, bananas, and pecans. Mix well, stirring gently, just enough to blend everything into a smooth, thick batter.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cake pans and bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cakes are lightly browned an pullling away from the sides of the pans.
- Cool the cakes in the pans on wire racks for about 15 minutes. Then carefully turn out the cakes onto wire racks or plates. Turn the layers top side up, and let them cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese and butter and beat with a mixer at low speed to mix well. Add the confectioners' sugar and vanilla and beat until the frosting is smooth, stopping a few times to scrape down the sides of the bowl and blend everything. Add the pecans, and stir.
- Place one layer, top side down, on a cake stand or a serving plate, and spread frosting on the top. Place the second layer top sideup, on the first. Frost the sides of the cake and then the top. Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to help the icing set.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!More Southern Flavor to Love
Love traditional Southern desserts? If so, don’t miss Memes rich and nutty Pecan Pie—a sweet classic from our family to yours. 👉 Get the full post and Pecan Pie recipe HERE.
Plan Your Sweet Escape to Tennessee
Tasty Tennessee Stops
Planning a trip to Tennessee? Don’t miss the chance to try some authentic Southern desserts while you’re here! From cozy cafes to historic eateries, Tennessee is full of places serving up homestyle desserts, including Hummingbird Cake.
Here are a few sweet spots to add to your list:
- The Loveless Cafe – Nashville: A classic stop for Southern comfort food and legendary cakes.
- Applewood Farmhouse – Sevierville: Famous for hearty meals and apple desserts that taste like home.
- Miss Mary Bobo’s – Lynchburg: A historic gem with old-fashioned Southern meals and timeless cakes.
- Museum of Appalachia – Clinton: Enjoy true Appalachian flavor—and maybe even a slice baked just like my mom makes.
Happy Trekkn (Bakin’ 🧡)
We hope your family enjoys this Hummingbird Cake as much as we do! It’s a Southern favorite that certainly brings a little extra sweetness to our holiday gatherings. Be sure to tell us what you think in the comments below, and also don’t forget to tag us on Instagram using #TennesseeTrekkn — we’d love to see your slice of tradition.
A Little Taste of Tennessee
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links from our trusted partners, including Amazon. If you choose to book or purchase through these we earn small commission – at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!