Hummingbird Cupcakes

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These Hummingbird Cupcakes are the epitome of Southern charm in every sweet, spiced bite. Bursting with tropical flavors from banana and pineapple, these moist cupcakes are beautifully complemented by a swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting. Each one is a little indulgent treasure topped with a pecan crunch, making them perfect for brunches, celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon treat.

The aroma while baking alone is enough to pull people into the kitchen. With a texture that’s soft and tender, and a flavor profile that’s both fruity and warmly spiced, this recipe feels like a nostalgic hug from a Southern grandma. Whether you’re familiar with traditional Hummingbird Cake or trying it for the first time, these cupcakes are sure to win you over.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the mixing and measuring, having the right tools ready makes this recipe a breeze. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

• Muffin Tin with Liners: Crucial for shaping the cupcakes and ensuring easy cleanup.
• Mixing Bowls (Large and Medium): You’ll need one bowl for dry ingredients and another for the wet mixture.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric mixer saves time when creaming the sugar and eggs, but a sturdy whisk works too if you’re going manual.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding in the fruit and nuts without overmixing the batter.
• Ice Cream Scoop or Spoon: Helps evenly portion the batter into the cupcake liners.
• Cooling Rack: Ensures the cupcakes cool quickly and evenly, which is important before frosting.
• Piping Bag and Tip (Optional): For a professional frosting finish, especially if you want that beautiful swirl.

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Ingredients for the Hummingbird Cupcakes

Each ingredient plays a role in creating the moist texture and rich flavor of these cupcakes. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:

• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and body to the cupcakes.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps in achieving that soft crumb.
• Brown Sugar – Offers a hint of molasses that deepens the flavor.
• Ripe Bananas – The bananas bring in natural sweetness and moisture.
• Crushed Pineapple (with juice) – Infuses the batter with tropical brightness and keeps it extra moist.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the rich texture.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cupcakes incredibly moist and tender.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy spice that complements the fruit.
• Baking Soda – Gives the cupcakes their rise and fluffiness.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness.
• Chopped Pecans – Add a subtle crunch and nuttiness that ties everything together.
• Cream Cheese, Butter, Powdered Sugar (for Frosting) – Classic combo for a smooth, tangy-sweet frosting.

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How To Make the Hummingbird Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This helps the cupcakes bake evenly and makes for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. This ensures the leavening and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until well blended. Stir in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple with juice.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently. Fold in the chopped pecans. Be careful not to overmix—just until incorporated.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling about 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Add a splash of vanilla extract for depth.

Step 7: Frost and Finish

Once cupcakes are fully cooled, pipe or spread the frosting generously. Top with more chopped pecans or a whole pecan for a beautiful finish.

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Serving and Storing Your Hummingbird Cupcakes

These cupcakes are best served at room temperature when the frosting is soft and silky. They make a lovely addition to dessert trays for brunches, baby showers, or springtime gatherings. The hint of banana and pineapple pairs beautifully with coffee or a light floral tea.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving, let them sit out for about 20 minutes to soften the frosting. If you want to make them ahead, the unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw and frost when ready.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Deep yellow with brown spots is perfect. Overripe bananas add more sweetness and moisture to the batter.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

You can, but make sure it’s finely chopped and juicy. The canned version with juice is preferred for moisture and consistency.

What if I don’t have pecans?

Walnuts make a great substitute, or you can skip the nuts entirely if needed—though they do add a lovely crunch.

Can these be made into a cake instead of cupcakes?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan and bake for about 35–40 minutes. Adjust baking time as needed.

Why do my cupcakes sink in the middle?

Overmixing the batter or opening the oven too early are common causes. Also, be sure your baking soda is fresh.

Can I make the frosting less sweet?

Yes—use less powdered sugar, but balance it with a bit more cream cheese for a tangier finish.

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Want More Cupcake Ideas with a Tropical Twist?

If these Hummingbird Cupcakes made your day a little sweeter, you’ll love exploring these other vibrant treats from my kitchen:

• Tiramisu Cupcakes Recipe for a coffee-infused classic.
• Heavenly Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes with a fruity-creamy surprise.
• Grape Crush Cupcakes Recipe bursting with nostalgic grape soda flavor.
• Almond Wedding Cake Cupcakes with Raspberry Filling for a bakery-style finish at home.

These cupcake ideas range from tangy to indulgent and always add flair to any occasion.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add toasted coconut? Maybe a caramel drizzle on top?

I love seeing your creative twists. Don’t hesitate to share your version or ask questions—let’s inspire each other to bake boldly.

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