Hummingbird Sheet Cake Recipe

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 13×9-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour

  • Sugar

  • Baking powder

  • Baking soda

  • Salt

  • Ground cinnamon

This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spice.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine:

  • Mashed bananas

  • Crushed pineapple with juice

  • Vegetable oil

  • Eggs

  • Vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined—don’t overmix. Fold in the chopped pecans. The batter will be thick and fragrant.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a hand or stand mixer:

  1. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth (2–3 minutes).

  2. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

  3. Add vanilla and salt; mix well.

  4. Add up to an additional ½ cup powdered sugar if you want a firmer frosting.

Step 7: Frost & Garnish

Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top evenly using an offset spatula. Sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for texture and a classic look.

Step 8: Slice & Serve

Cut into squares or rectangles. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

💡 Tips for Success

  • Bananas: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.

  • Pineapple: Do not drain the juice—it adds key moisture.

  • Make Ahead: Bake the cake a day ahead and frost before serving.

  • Frosting Texture:

    • 4 cups sugar = light & spreadable

    • 4½ cups sugar = firmer, holds shape better

  • Add a Twist: Garnish with toasted coconut or drizzle with caramel for variation.

 Storage

  • Refrigerated (Frosted): Store covered for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving.

  • Freezer (Unfrosted): Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.

 Why It’s a Crowd Favorite

This Hummingbird Sheet Cake combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple, the comforting warmth of bananas and cinnamon, and the rich creaminess of a classic cream cheese frosting. It’s:

✅ Easy to prepare
✅ No stacking or layering
✅ Perfect for feeding a crowd
✅ Simple Southern comfort in every bite