Name: Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 box spice cake mix, 15.25 oz without pudding in the mix; 8 ounces crushed pineapple, undrained; 1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 3 large bananas); ⅓ cup olive oil; 3 large eggs; Optional: 1 tablespoon molasses; Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon; Optional: up to ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup mix-ins: ½ cup toasted chopped pecans, ½ cup dried cranberries; 12 tablespoons butter, softened; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 12 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 85 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that delivers classic Southern charm with a modern twist, you’ve just found it. This Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe takes the beloved flavors of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, warm spices, and crunchy toasted pecans, then turns them into a delightfully moist, tender cake. Using a cake mix as the base not only simplifies the process but also guarantees consistent, perfect results every time. Topped with luxuriously creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is bound to become a staple in your dessert lineup, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a smooth, light brown batter that takes up most of the space inside. On top of the batter, there are two distinct layers: a pile of dark red dried cranberries on the upper part and a group of chopped light brown pecans mixed with a bit of white nut pieces on the lower part. Two silver beaters are partially submerged in the batter, resting diagonally on the right side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and a white tiled wall is visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the ingredients in this recipe are pantry-friendly and make this cake incredibly straightforward to put together. Each one plays a crucial role—from the moistness brought by bananas and pineapple to the depth of flavor created by optional spices and the rich cream cheese frosting that finishes it off.

1 box spice cake mix, 15.25 oz: The perfect foundation with built-in warm spice notes.
8 ounces crushed pineapple, undrained: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 3 large): Gives the cake a tender crumb and fruity richness.
⅓ cup olive oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft without overpowering flavors.
3 large eggs: Essential for structure and a tender bite.
Optional “doctor up” ingredients: 1 tablespoon molasses, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, up to ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – these add complexity and warmth to the flavor profile.
1 cup mix-ins: Your choice of toasted chopped pecans, toasted coconut, dried cranberries, or raisins to add texture and bursts of flavor; a favorite combo is ½ cup pecans with ½ cup dried cranberries.
Cream Cheese Frosting ingredients: 12 tablespoons softened butter, 12 ounces softened cream cheese cut into cubes, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon salt, and 3 cups sifted powdered sugar – creating that smooth, tangy finish.

How to Make Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix with the crushed pineapple (undrained), mashed bananas, olive oil, and eggs. If you want to deepen the flavor, stir in the optional molasses, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper here. Mix everything until just combined—be careful not to overmix as that can make the cake dense.

Step 2: Add the Mix-Ins

Fold in your chosen mix-ins gently to distribute toasted pecans and dried cranberries evenly throughout the batter. These little bursts of crunch and chewiness add delightful texture that are signature to hummingbird cake.

Step 3: Bake

Pour the batter evenly into two or three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops gently. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cakes cool completely, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Then add vanilla extract and salt, mixing well. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable – this frosting beautifully balances the sweetness of the cake with its tangy creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once your layers are cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers and cover the entire cake with the frosting, smoothing the sides and top for a pretty finish.

How to Serve Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe

This is a two-layer round cake placed on a white plate. The bottom layer is light brown, with a thick white cream layer spread evenly on top. The second layer, also light brown, sits on this cream, with a similar cream layer spread over it. The top layer of cream is decorated with a ring of pecans and small red dried berries around the edge. In the center, there is a generous layer of toasted, shredded coconut, which is golden and white in color. The cake is set on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there are small white bowls filled with pecans, toasted coconut, and dried red berries. The scene has a bright and clean look, with folded white napkins and silver forks visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your hummingbird cake even more inviting, sprinkle toasted pecans or extra toasted coconut flakes on top. This adds another layer of crunch and a lovely visual contrast against the creamy frosting. Fresh banana slices or a few pineapple tidbits can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing accompaniments. Think fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to keep the dessert feeling balanced. A cup of strong coffee or spiced tea also complements the warm spices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try serving the cake as mini cupcakes using the same batter and frosting recipe—perfect for parties. You can also layer slices of the cake in parfait glasses with alternating layers of whipped cream and fruit for a deconstructed and elegant dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. The cake stays moist and flavorful for up to 4 days when refrigerated, and the cream cheese frosting holds up nicely.

Freezing

If you want to keep the cake longer, freeze unfrosted layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving, ensuring the best texture and taste.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not typically necessary. If your frosting is too cold straight from the fridge, allow the slices to sit out for 20 minutes for optimal cream cheese frosting softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for this Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe?

While spice cake mix provides the classic flavor profile reminiscent of traditional hummingbird cake, you could experiment with yellow or white cake mix for a slightly different base, but it won’t have the same warm, spiced depth.

Do I have to add the optional molasses, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper?

Nope! Those ingredients are there to add extra complexity and warmth, but the cake is delicious even if you skip them. Feel free to keep it simple or elevate the flavor depending on your mood.

Can I substitute the olive oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can swap olive oil for a neutral-tasting oil like vegetable or canola oil if you prefer a milder flavor. The olive oil does add a subtle fruity richness but isn’t mandatory.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Since this recipe uses a regular cake mix, it is not gluten-free. If you’d like a gluten-free option, look for a gluten-free spice cake mix and verify your other add-ins are free of gluten.

What’s the best way to toast pecans or coconut for this recipe?

Toast pecans or coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring often to prevent burning. This enhances their flavor and texture when added to the cake and as a topping.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe brings together simplicity and amazing flavor in a way that feels special but never fussy. Whether you’re a longtime hummingbird cake fan or trying it for the first time, the balance of sweet fruit, warm spices, crunchy nuts, and luscious cream cheese frosting will delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones. Give it a go and watch it quickly become a must-make dessert in your kitchen arsenal!

Easy Hummingbird Cake (Cake Mix Recipe) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need