Hummingbird Bread with a heavenly Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction:

Prepare your taste buds for a heavenly journey with Hummingbird Bread topped with a decadent Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This delightful twist on the classic Hummingbird Cake brings together the flavors of banana, pineapple, and pecans in a moist and flavorful bread, perfectly complemented by a creamy and aromatic frosting. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or indulgent dessert, Hummingbird Bread is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Join us as we explore the irresistible flavors and simple steps to create this divine culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1 and 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup pineapple, diced and patted dry
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix bananas, sugars, egg, and oil until well combined. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; mix. Fold in coconut, pineapple, and pecans.
3. Pour into loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes. Cool on wire rack.
4. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Spread on cooled bread; sprinkle with pecans.
5. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes | Kcal: 316 kcal | Servings: 12

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Warm or Chilled: Hummingbird Bread can be served warm, straight from the oven, or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy it warm with a dollop of butter for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. Alternatively, chill the bread in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing dessert option.
2. Slice Before Serving: Before serving, slice the Hummingbird Bread into individual portions using a sharp knife. This makes it easier for guests to enjoy and helps to showcase the beautiful texture and layers of the bread.
3. Garnish with Pecans: For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish each slice of Hummingbird Bread with a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top. This adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the presentation.
4. Pair with Hot Beverage: Serve Hummingbird Bread alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting and indulgent pairing. The warm flavors of the bread complement the rich and aromatic notes of the beverage, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
5. Accompany with Fresh Fruit: Enhance the presentation and add a refreshing element to the dish by serving sliced fresh fruit such as strawberries, bananas, or pineapple alongside the Hummingbird Bread. The fruity flavors complement the tropical essence of the bread and provide a burst of freshness.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Hummingbird Bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the bread will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: If you have excess Hummingbird Bread or want to save some for later, you can freeze it for longer-term storage. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
3. Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen Hummingbird Bread, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature to restore the freshness and warmth.
4. Refrigerate Cream Cheese Frosting: If there are leftover portions of the bread with the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, store them in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness of the frosting. Bring the bread to room temperature before serving to allow the frosting to soften slightly.
5. Reheat Before Serving: If serving chilled Hummingbird Bread, consider reheating it briefly in the microwave or oven before serving to enhance the flavors and restore the soft texture. Warm slices will be more aromatic and inviting, especially when served with a cup of hot beverage.

FAQs:

1. Can I use ripe bananas for this recipe? Yes, ripe bananas are essential for Hummingbird Bread as they provide sweetness, moisture, and flavor to the bread. Look for bananas that are yellow with brown spots or fully brown for the best results. Overripe bananas mash easily and have a sweeter taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the bread.
2. Can I omit the nuts from the recipe? Yes, you can omit the chopped pecans from the Hummingbird Bread recipe if you have a nut allergy or prefer not to include them. The bread will still be delicious without the nuts, but you may lose some of the textural contrast they provide. Feel free to substitute with other mix-ins like raisins, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips if desired.
3. How do I store leftover Hummingbird Bread? To store leftover Hummingbird Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Alternatively, refrigerate the bread to extend its shelf life for up to 3-4 days. For longer-term storage, freeze the bread in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months.
4. Can I make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time? Yes, you can make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply cover the frosting with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors. Bring the frosting to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading it over the cooled Hummingbird Bread.
5. Is Hummingbird Bread suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Hummingbird Bread is suitable for vegetarians as it does not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients. However, be sure to check the ingredients of the products used, especially the cream cheese, to ensure they meet your dietary preferences. Opt for vegetarian-friendly options if needed.