If you love moist, flavorful, and slightly spiced quick breads, then this Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese is about to become your new favorite! Inspired by the classic Hummingbird Cake, this bread combines ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, warm spices, and crunchy pecans, all topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese glaze. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat, this bread is sweet, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible!
✨ The Magic of Hummingbird Bread
What makes Hummingbird Bread so special? It’s a delightful mix of tropical flavors, warm spices, and creamy richness. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- 🍌 Bananas – Add natural sweetness and keep the bread ultra-moist.
- 🍍 Crushed Pineapple – Brings a subtle tangy freshness that balances the richness.
- 🌰 Pecans – Add crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
- 🥥 Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Warm spices enhance the tropical sweetness.
- 🧀 Cream Cheese Glaze – The tangy topping complements the sweet, spiced bread perfectly.
This easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting snack!
🛒 Ingredients for the Best Hummingbird Bread
For the bread:
✅ 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – The perfect base for a tender texture.
✅ 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
✅ 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bread rise.
✅ ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
✅ 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice.
✅ ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Adds depth to the flavor.
✅ 2 large ripe bananas, mashed – The star ingredient for moisture.
✅ ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the bread soft and tender.
✅ 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness.
✅ 1 cup (240g) crushed pineapple, drained – Adds tropical sweetness.
✅ ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans – Provides a nutty crunch.
For the cream cheese glaze:
✅ 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened – Rich and tangy.
✅ 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar – Creates a smooth and sweet glaze.
✅ 2-3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency.
✅ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor.
This simple ingredient list creates a soft, moist, and flavorful bread with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
🍞 How to Make Hummingbird Bread (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
🔹 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
🔹 In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
🔹 In a separate bowl, combine the mashed bananas, oil, eggs, vanilla, and drained pineapple.
🔹 Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Fold in Pecans
🔹 Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
🔹 Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
🔹 Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
🔹 Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
🔹 Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
🔹 Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
🔹 Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and let it set before slicing.
🔬 The Science Behind Their Unique Texture
Hummingbird Bread is incredibly soft, moist, and tender, thanks to these key ingredients and techniques:
- Bananas & Pineapple – These fruits add natural moisture and sweetness.
- Oil Instead of Butter – Creates a softer crumb and keeps the bread moist for days.
- Eggs – Help bind the ingredients together for a perfectly fluffy texture.
- Baking Soda – Reacts with the acidic pineapple, making the bread light and airy.
This unique combination of ingredients makes Hummingbird Bread extra soft and flavorful!
🎯 Tips for the Best Hummingbird Bread
✔️ Use Extra Ripe Bananas – The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness and moisture.
✔️ Drain the Pineapple Well – Too much liquid can make the bread too dense.
✔️ Do Not Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
✔️ Let It Cool Before Glazing – This prevents the glaze from melting off.
✔️ Toast the Pecans – Lightly toasting them enhances their rich, nutty flavor.
Follow these tips for perfectly soft and flavorful bread every time!
❤️ Why You’ll Love Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese
🌟 Soft, Moist, and Flavorful – Every bite is sweet, fruity, and perfectly spiced.
🌟 Easy to Make – No complicated steps—just mix and bake!
🌟 Great for Any Occasion – Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
🌟 Pairs Perfectly with Coffee or Tea – The cream cheese glaze makes it even better!
🌟 Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh for days and can be frozen.
Once you try this delicious and comforting bread, you’ll want to make it again and again!
🏆 Storage and Freezing Tips
To keep your Hummingbird Bread fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
- At Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Refrigerator – Keeps fresh for up to 1 week in a sealed container.
- In the Freezer – Freeze slices or the whole loaf in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
To thaw, let it sit at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✨ Warm with Butter – A simple and delicious way to enjoy it.
✨ With a Cup of Coffee or Tea – Perfect for a cozy morning treat.
✨ Toasted with a Drizzle of Honey – Enhances the sweet and nutty flavors.
✨ With a Side of Fresh Fruit – A light and refreshing pairing.
✨ As a Dessert – Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
No matter how you serve it, Hummingbird Bread is always a delightful treat!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this bread without nuts?
A: Yes! You can omit the pecans or replace them with raisins, coconut, or chocolate chips.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, but make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice.
Q: Can I make this recipe into muffins?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: How do I make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
🍽️ Conclusion
Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese is moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. It combines the sweetness of bananas, the tang of pineapple, and the warmth of cinnamon, all topped with a creamy and rich glaze. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, this bread is easy to make and full of comforting flavors.
Now, grab your ingredients and bake a loaf of this delicious Hummingbird Bread today! 🍌🍍🥕
