There’s something truly special about a slice of hummingbird cake—moist layers packed with bananas pineapple and a hint of spice. This Southern classic has been winning hearts since the 1970s and now we can enjoy it without the gluten. Our gluten free hummingbird cake recipe brings all the nostalgic flavors to the table while making sure everyone can indulge.
We love how easy it is to whip up this cake with simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet our gluten free version delivers the same tender crumb and irresistible taste. Let’s create a dessert that’s both comforting and inclusive.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake Recipe brings a wonderful twist to classic Southern baking, providing indulgence without compromise. Let’s highlight what makes our recipe irresistible:
- Intensely Moist and Flavorful
We achieve a moist crumb using fresh bananas, crushed pineapple, and a hint of cinnamon. Every bite offers a burst of tropical sweetness and hearty, satisfying texture.
- No Compromise on Tradition
Our recipe channels the nostalgic, classic hummingbird cake flavor—now made gluten-free—so all guests can enjoy a slice, regardless of allergies or sensitivities.
- Simple Ingredients, Everyday Pantry Staples
We use readily available gluten free flour, eggs, and other basic baking items. There’s no need for complicated substitutions or specialty store visits.
- Inclusive Dessert for Every Occasion
Birthday, brunch, or potluck—this cake is perfect for any celebration. Made gluten-free with care, it’s a crowd-pleaser that no one wants to miss.
- Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Our rich, tangy cream cheese frosting complements the spiced cake layers, pulling together all the flavors into a perfectly balanced dessert.
- Easy to Follow and Reliable
Even beginner bakers can master this Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake Recipe. Step-by-step guidance ensures reliable results every time.
| Feature | Why it Stands Out |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Adaptation | Safe for those with allergies or sensitivities |
| Moist & Flavorful | Bananas, pineapple, and spices guarantee rich texture and taste |
| Simple Ingredients | Uses common pantry staples |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Adds luscious tang and creaminess |
| Inclusive for All | Welcomes guests of all dietary backgrounds |
| Easy Instructions | Beginner-friendly with clear, concise steps |
“This cake is everything we love about homemade desserts—warm, welcoming, and worry-free.”
We bring a taste of the South to your gluten-free kitchen, ensuring everyone enjoys a classic favorite.
Essential Equipment
To achieve the perfect gluten free hummingbird cake, we need the right tools. Having these essentials on hand ensures even mixing, consistent baking, and a beautiful presentation for our cake. Here is what we recommend:
Equipment Checklist
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch round cake pans (x2) | For baking even cake layers and easy assembly |
| Mixing bowls (large and medium) | For blending wet and dry ingredients without mess |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For precise measurement of gluten-free flours, sugar, and liquids |
| Electric mixer or hand mixer | For creaming fats and whipping the cream cheese frosting to fluffiness |
| Rubber spatula | For folding batter and scraping the bowl sides thoroughly |
| Cooling rack | To cool cake layers evenly after baking |
| Parchment paper | To line cake pans for easy removal of layers |
| Cake stand or serving plate | For assembling and beautifully presenting the finished cake |
| Offset spatula | For smooth application of cream cheese frosting |
Step-by-Step Equipment Prep
- Preheat and Line
We preheat our oven and line our 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and guarantees every slice lifts smoothly.
- Organize Bowls and Mixer
We set out separate mixing bowls: one for dry, one for wet ingredients. Our electric mixer or hand mixer stands ready for both the batter and the classic cream cheese frosting.
- Measure Accurately
Using reputable measuring cups and spoons, we ensure the right quantities of gluten free flour, crushed pineapple, and other key ingredients.
- Prepare Spatulas and Racks
We keep a rubber spatula nearby for gentle folding and a cooling rack to cool our cake layers, preserving their moist, tender crumb.
- Present with Style
We transfer cooled layers onto a cake stand or an attractive serving plate, using an offset spatula for a smooth, visually appealing frosting finish.
Note: The success of our gluten free hummingbird cake recipe relies on using the right equipment to achieve moist layers, fluffy frosting, and seamless assembly every time.
Ingredients
Every great Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake Recipe starts with quality ingredients. To create irresistibly moist layers and lusciously creamy frosting, we gather gluten-free staples and fresh produce. Here is what we need for optimal flavor and texture.
For the Cake
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (choose a blend with xanthan gum for best results)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¾ cup neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, lightly toasted)
“The combination of mashed bananas and crushed pineapple delivers the signature moist crumb and tropical aroma hummingbird cake is famous for.”
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces | Room temperature |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup | Room temperature |
| Powdered sugar | 3½ cups | Sifted for smoothness |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure |
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
- ½ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or sweetened, folded into batter)
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans (sprinkled between layers or on top)
- Fresh banana slices (for garnish, added just before serving)
- Edible flowers (for an elegant finish)
- A pinch of ground nutmeg or extra cinnamon (for dusting the finished cake)
Elevating our gluten free hummingbird cake recipe with these garnishes and mix-ins adds personal flair while accenting that classic Southern charm.
Directions
Let’s create this gluten free hummingbird cake step by step for best flavor and texture. Following these directions will help us achieve a moist crumb, luscious frosting, and irresistible Southern charm in every bite.
Prep the Cake Pans
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick spray.
- Line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds for easy cake removal.
- Dust lightly with gluten free flour, tapping out any excess.
Mix the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- In a separate bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas. Then mix in:
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- ¾ cup neutral oil (such as canola or avocado)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Gently stir in optional add-ins, like 1 cup chopped pecans and ½ cup shredded coconut, if desired.
Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Smooth the tops using a spatula.
- Bake on the center rack for 27 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
| Oven Temperature | Bake Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (177°C) | 27-32 minutes | Two 9-inch cakes |
Cool the Cakes
- Remove cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Run a thin knife around the edge, then invert onto a wire rack.
- Peel off the parchment and let cakes cool completely before frosting.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add 3 to 3 ½ cups powdered sugar.
- Beat in 2 tsp vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until silky smooth and spreadable.
Assemble and Frost the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter.
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Use an offset spatula for smooth, even coverage.
Add Toppings and Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle chopped pecans and shredded coconut over the top.
- Add fresh banana slices and edible flowers as desired.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes before serving for cleaner slices and bolder flavors.
“Our finished gluten free hummingbird cake is ready to impress with every luscious layer and vibrant topping.”
| Main Keyword | Used in Section |
|---|---|
| Gluten free hummingbird cake | Directions, Assemble and Frost the Cake, Add Toppings |
| Cream cheese frosting | Make the Cream Cheese Frosting, Assemble and Frost the Cake |
| Gluten free all-purpose flour | Mix the Cake Batter |
| Chopped pecans, shredded coconut | Mix the Cake Batter, Add Toppings and Finishing Touches |
Tips for the Best Gluten Free Hummingbird Cake
To achieve an irresistible gluten free hummingbird cake every time, we rely on a few proven strategies. These methods ensure every slice is moist, flavorful, and beautifully tender.
1. Use High-Quality Gluten-Free Flour
Not all gluten-free flours are created equal. We recommend a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for structure and a soft crumb. Check your flour label for xanthan gum or guar gum. If absent, add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum per cup of flour.
2. Let the Batter Rest
“Letting the batter sit for 10 minutes allows the gluten-free flour blend to hydrate properly, resulting in a smoother cake texture and even crumb.”
3. Measure Bananas and Pineapple Accurately
Use a measuring cup to ensure the correct amount of mashed bananas and crushed pineapple. Too much fruit makes the cake dense and heavy. Too little yields a dry crumb.
| Ingredient | Ideal Amount |
|---|---|
| Mashed Bananas | 1 1/2 cups |
| Crushed Pineapple | 1 cup, drained |
4. Don’t Overmix the Batter
“Overmixing develops a gummy texture in gluten-free cakes.” Mix just until combined after adding the dry ingredients for a tender, springy crumb.
5. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Bring eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter and prevents curdling, especially for the cream cheese frosting.
6. Bake Until Just Done
Insert a toothpick into the center of your cake layers. “It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.” Overbaking dries out the gluten-free layers quickly.
7. Cool Completely Before Frosting
Always let cake layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then on a rack until fully cooled. Frosting warm cake leads to melting and sliding frosting.
8. Store Properly
Gluten free hummingbird cake stays moist if stored in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted layers.
9. Add Optional Toppings for Flavor and Texture
Enhance presentation and taste by sprinkling with chopped pecans, toasted coconut, or edible flowers. For special occasions, arrange fresh banana slices or pineapple chunks on top just before serving.
By following these tips, we create a gluten-free cake that rivals the nostalgic classic while adapting for every kitchen and dietary need.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
For busy schedules or party planning, our gluten free hummingbird cake recipe adapts beautifully to advance preparation and proper storage.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake cake layers up to two days in advance. Let layers cool fully, then wrap each layer tightly with plastic wrap. Store at room temperature for best texture.
- Prepare cream cheese frosting up to three days ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bring frosting to room temperature and stir well before using for effortless spreading.
- To assemble ahead, frost the cooled cake layers the night before your event. Store the assembled cake in the fridge, covered loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome. Add optional toppings like pecans or banana slices just before serving.
Storage Instructions
| Storage Method | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Keep cake tightly covered. Only store at room temp if not frosted. |
| Refrigerated | Up to 5 days | Store covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. |
| Freezer (Unfrosted) | Up to 2 months | Wrap layers in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight before frosting. |
- Refrigerate any leftovers promptly since cream cheese frosting is perishable.
- For best texture and flavor, allow slices to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
- If freezing, wrap each frosted or unfrosted slice tightly in both plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn and preserve the moist crumb.
“Our gluten free hummingbird cake stays tender, aromatic, and crowd-pleasing with the right storage—ensuring every slice tastes bakery-fresh.”
By following these easy make-ahead and storage tips, we keep our gluten free dessert deliciously convenient without any stress on baking day.
Conclusion
With a gluten-free hummingbird cake on our table we can celebrate every occasion with a dessert that’s both nostalgic and inclusive. This recipe lets us share a slice of Southern tradition without compromise—rich flavors and moist layers included.
Whether we’re baking for a family gathering or just satisfying a sweet craving our gluten-free hummingbird cake brings everyone together. Let’s keep delighting our loved ones with treats that everyone can enjoy and remember.