How To Make Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who believes every recipe tells a story. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that carries with it the soul of the South, infused with love, comfort, and a touch of tropical sweetness—Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. Inspired by the famous Hummingbird Cake, this bread takes the same moist, flavorful essence but transforms it into a more approachable, everyday treat you can enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or with your afternoon tea.

This bread combines ripe bananas, juicy pineapple, warm spices, and crunchy pecans to create a moist, irresistible loaf that feels like a warm hug. What takes it to the next level is the luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting—a tangy, spiced topping that pairs beautifully with the bread’s natural sweetness. Whether you’re baking for family, sharing with friends, or indulging in a quiet slice alone, this bread will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for comfort and joy.

Overview of Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese

Hummingbird Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience of texture, aroma, and flavor. Born from the Southern classic Hummingbird Cake, this bread is rich in history and beloved for its unique combination of tropical fruit and spice. Imagine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the slight tang of pineapple, and the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Add to that the buttery crunch of pecans, and you have a bread that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.

The addition of cinnamon cream cheese frosting elevates this bread into something truly special. The frosting adds a creamy tang with just enough spice to balance the sweetness of the loaf. While the bread itself is tender and moist, the frosting gives it a smooth finish, making every bite a delightful harmony of flavors.

This recipe is also versatile—perfect as a breakfast loaf, a brunch showstopper, or a dessert centerpiece. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires simple pantry staples. One slice, and you’ll understand why this bread is cherished by so many.

Ingredients for Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese

For the Hummingbird Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup ripe mashed bananas (about 2 bananas)
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• ½ cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Making of Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese

Creating this Hummingbird Bread is simple and rewarding. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the bread.

In another large mixing bowl, combine the sugars, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Beat until smooth, then fold in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple. The fruit not only sweetens the bread naturally but also keeps it incredibly moist.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps the bread remain tender. Fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

While the bread cools, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Once the bread is completely cool, spread the frosting generously over the top and sprinkle with extra pecans for a beautiful finish.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in mashed bananas and pineapple until fully incorporated.
4. Create the Batter: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—avoid overmixing to ensure a moist loaf. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, checking at the 50-minute mark. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
7. Make the Frosting: While the bread cools, beat softened cream cheese and butter together in a medium bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
8. Frost the Bread: Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly across the top. Garnish with extra pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

This process ensures a perfectly moist, flavorful loaf that pairs beautifully with the rich, spiced frosting.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Cooling & Frosting: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes

Nutrition Information (per slice, 12 servings)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugars: 26g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 210mg

Serving of Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese

Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature, allowing the frosting to hold its shape and the flavors to meld together. Slice the loaf into generous portions and serve on a dessert plate with a garnish of fresh pineapple slices or a dusting of cinnamon for added flair.

This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee in the morning, a soothing tea in the afternoon, or even a sparkling mimosa at brunch. It’s versatile enough to serve as a special breakfast, a mid-day indulgence, or a crowd-pleasing dessert at gatherings.

If entertaining, consider slicing the loaf into smaller squares for a finger-food style treat at parties. The dense, moist crumb makes it easy to portion without crumbling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months—simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
• Fruit Boost: Add shredded coconut or diced mango for a tropical twist.
• Healthier Version: Use whole wheat flour and coconut sugar.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
• Mini Loaves: Divide batter into smaller pans for giftable treats.

Final Thought

Hummingbird Bread with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and comfort. With its tropical fruits, warm spices, and indulgent frosting, it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This bread is perfect for cozy mornings, special occasions, or whenever you want to share a little joy through food.

From my travels, I’ve learned that the best recipes are the ones that bring people together. This bread does exactly that—every slice is an invitation to slow down, savor, and connect. Bake it once, and I promise it will become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.