Hummingbird Cupcakes

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Tropical, nutty, and deliciously moist, Hummingbird Cupcakes are the kind of treat that feel like sunshine in dessert form. Packed with banana, pineapple, and pecans, and topped with a dreamy swirl of cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are a Southern classic turned handheld indulgence.

Every bite bursts with warm spices, natural sweetness, and soft texture, making them perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or just because you need a cupcake that hugs you back. If you’re a fan of carrot cake or banana bread, this might just become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Hummingbird Cupcakes Recipe

These cupcakes are incredibly moist thanks to the fruit and oil-based batter. They’re also simple to make without any mixer for the batter, and they’re topped with rich cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the sweet and spiced base. Whether you make them for a holiday or a random Tuesday, they’re always a hit.

What Kind of Pineapple Should I Use?

Crushed pineapple in juice is best for this recipe. It blends seamlessly into the batter and gives that moist texture and subtle tang that defines a hummingbird cupcake. Just be sure not to drain it – that juice is part of the magic.

Ingredients for the Hummingbird Cupcakes

This cupcake recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients that work together to create that signature soft and flavorful bite.

• All-purpose flour – Gives structure and body to the cupcakes.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the fruit.
• Brown sugar – Deepens the flavor with a molasses hint.
• Baking soda – Helps the cupcakes rise perfectly.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy spice.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• Bananas – Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Crushed pineapple (with juice) – Key to the fruity flavor and soft texture.
• Eggs – Bind everything together.
• Vegetable oil – Makes the cupcakes incredibly moist.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and aroma.
• Pecans – Bring a nutty crunch and classic Southern flair.
• Cream cheese – The star of the frosting, tangy and rich.
• Butter – Softens and adds richness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

How To Make the Hummingbird Cupcakes

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a cupcake pan with liners. Mash your bananas and gather all your ingredients for easy assembly.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with juice), eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended.

Step 4: Combine and Fold

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold until just combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat until fluffy. Pipe or spread onto cooled cupcakes.

How to Serve and Store Hummingbird Cupcakes

These cupcakes are best served at room temperature when the frosting is soft and creamy. They make a beautiful display on a dessert table or tucked into lunch boxes for a sweet surprise. This recipe yields about 18 cupcakes, making it great for small parties or family treats.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let them sit out for 20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting. You can also freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Hummingbird Cupcakes?

Coffee or Latte

The subtle spice of the cupcake pairs perfectly with a bold coffee or creamy latte.

Sweet Tea

For a Southern-style combo, serve them with chilled sweet tea and lemon.

Fruit Salad

A light, fresh fruit salad balances the richness of the cupcakes.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Double the dessert delight by serving the cupcake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Fresh Berries

Raspberries or strawberries on the side make it feel extra summery.

Nut Brittle

If you’re serving them at a party, a tray of nut brittle beside the cupcakes keeps that nutty theme going.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of fresh whipped cream makes these feel extra indulgent.

Sparkling Water

For a lighter option, try a fruity sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites.

Want More Cupcake Ideas?

If you’re obsessed with how dreamy these hummingbird cupcakes are, you might also fall for these:

• Butter Pecan Cheesecake for a rich and nutty dessert.
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake when you want something bright and fruity.
• Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies if you love buttery, tender bites.
• Whimsical Cotton Candy Cookies for a fun, sweet treat.
• Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake when you’re craving nostalgia.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use walnuts instead of pecans? Try a pineapple frosting twist? I’d love to hear about your spins on it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and colorful bakes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to treats! Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Hummingbird Cupcakes are more than just a dessert. They’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and a little Southern charm. With the perfect balance of fruit, spice, and creamy topping, they’re the kind of treat that turns any moment into something memorable. Once you bake a batch, you’ll see just how quickly they disappear.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?