Spring is here, and my kitchen is buzzing with the aroma of freshly baked Hummingbird Cupcakes. These delightful treats, filled with mashed banana, pecans, and crushed pineapple, are a perfect ode to the season. The warm spices of cinnamon or allspice, along with the optional flaked coconut, create a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Crafting these Hummingbird Cupcakes is a joyous ritual for me, as I whisk together sugar, flour, butter, eggs, and baking soda to create the perfect batter. The finishing touch of chilled cream cheese frosting, adorned with a crunchy pecan, adds a delightful contrast of textures. With each bite, the light frosting and the surprise elements within the cupcake promise a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Indulge in the magic of spring with these Hummingbird Cupcakes, a harmonious blend of flavors that will surely elevate your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for pans
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 8oz can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 2 cups chopped ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- Vegetable shortening
- 2 8oz packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup salted butter or margarine, softened
- 2 16oz packages powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
To make these scrumptious Hummingbird Cupcakes, you’ll need the following equipment:
For Cupcakes:
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer)
- Cupcake pan
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
For Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer)
- Piping bag or spatula for frosting cupcakes
- Baking sheets
- Nonstick baking mats or parchment paper
- Small brush for applying corn syrup
- Pale yellow and yellow sparkling sugar for garnish
These essential tools will help you create perfectly moist and flavorful Hummingbird Cupcakes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Directions
Let’s dive into the steps to create these delightful hummingbird cupcakes, filled with a harmonious blend of banana, pineapple, and warm spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Preparing the Batter
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, mix together canola oil, mashed banana, sugar, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, egg, and almond extract until well combined.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full.
Baking the Cupcakes
- Place the filled cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-21 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Making the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, softened butter, and brown sugar. Beat them together until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 3 tablespoons, and beat until well incorporated. Add more powdered sugar if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Once the frosting is smooth and creamy, it is ready to be used.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes with the prepared cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or spatula.
- For an optional finishing touch, you can add a sprinkle of yellow sparkling sugar or pale yellow sanding sugar on top of the frosting.
- Serve and enjoy these delightful hummingbird cupcakes with your friends and family!
Serving and Presentation
When it comes to hummingbird cupcakes, presentation is key to enhance the overall experience of this delightful treat. Below are some tips on garnishing and serving these delectable cupcakes to make them even more inviting.
Garnishing Tips
To add an extra pop of color and flavor to your hummingbird cupcakes, consider garnishing them with candied pineapple wedges. These pineapple wedges, coated in sparkling and sanding sugars, not only complement the tropical flavors of the cupcakes but also add a touch of elegance to your presentation. You can easily make these candied pineapple wedges at home following a simple recipe or opt for store-bought ones for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve your hummingbird cupcakes, consider pairing them with a hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea. The combination of the moist and flavorful cupcakes with a warm beverage can create a cozy and indulgent experience. Alternatively, you can serve these cupcakes as a part of a dessert spread at a gathering or special occasion. Arrange them on a decorative platter with some fresh fruit slices or edible flowers for a visually appealing dessert presentation that is sure to impress your guests.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to storing your delightful Hummingbird Cupcakes, here are some helpful tips to keep them fresh and delicious for longer periods.
Refrigerating
I always prefer storing cakes and cupcakes with cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator. Place the cupcakes in a covered container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Before serving, let the cupcakes sit out at room temperature for about an hour to take the chill off.
Freezing
If you want to prepare your Hummingbird Cupcakes in advance, freezing is a great option. Freeze the cupcakes unfrosted by wrapping each one in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe zip bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. After thawing in the fridge, you can frost them just before serving to maintain their freshness. Double wrapping the cupcakes will help if you plan to freeze them for longer periods.
Conclusion
Baking Hummingbird Cupcakes is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of spring. From the blend of banana, pecans, pineapple, and spices to the creamy cream cheese frosting, every bite is a burst of joy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can master this recipe. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or beautifully displayed on a platter, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Remember to follow the storage tips to keep them fresh for days or even months. So, why wait? Get baking and treat yourself to these irresistible Hummingbird Cupcakes today!