Hummingbird Cupcakes

Hummingbird Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic Southern hummingbird cake, bursting with tropical flavors and warm spices. These cupcakes are moist, tender, and packed with banana, crushed pineapple, and a hint of cardamom and nutmeg, making every bite a flavorful experience. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon treat or a festive celebration. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Hummingbird Cupcakes recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it combines the best of fruity and spiced flavors, creating a complex yet harmonious taste profile. The use of applesauce along with oil keeps the cupcakes moist without being heavy, making them light and fluffy. Adding cardamom and nutmeg introduces a subtle warmth that elevates the traditional cinnamon note. The cream cheese frosting is rich and tangy, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the cupcakes. Plus, these cupcakes are incredibly adaptable—you can add nuts or skip them without losing any flavor. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, guaranteeing delicious results every time.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Pinch of grated nutmeg
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup applesauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
• 1 cup mashed banana (about 2 large bananas)
• 4 ounces crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (more to taste)

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or whisk – to blend ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts.
• Muffin pan – to bake the cupcakes evenly.
• Cupcake liners – to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Spatula – for folding ingredients and scraping bowls.
• Cooling rack – to cool cupcakes before frosting.
• Offset spatula or piping bag – for applying the cream cheese frosting neatly.

How to Prepare Hummingbird Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal and cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, ground cardamom, and grated nutmeg. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until lightly beaten. Add the applesauce, olive or vegetable oil, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with juice), and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cupcakes dense. If using pecans, fold them in now.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired sweetness and consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using an offset spatula or a piping bag. Serve immediately or store for later.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Spring: Add finely chopped fresh strawberries to the batter for a berry twist.
• Summer: Top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
• Fall: Mix in a dash of pumpkin spice and swap pineapple for crushed pears.
• Winter: Incorporate crystallized ginger pieces for a warm, spicy kick.

Steer Clear of These

• Overmixing the batter, which can lead to tough cupcakes.
• Using unripe bananas – ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture.
• Skipping the cooling step before frosting; warm cupcakes will cause frosting to melt.
• Substituting cream cheese with sour cream or yogurt in the frosting, which changes the texture drastically.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store leftover Hummingbird Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost just before serving. To warm, let cupcakes come to room temperature or microwave briefly for 10-15 seconds.

Questions People Ask

Can I make these cupcakes vegan?

Yes! Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg, use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives, and ensure your sugar is processed without bone char. Applesauce and mashed banana help maintain moisture.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely. Use finely chopped fresh pineapple and reduce any additional liquid in the recipe slightly since fresh pineapple contains more moisture.

What makes these cupcakes so moist?

The combination of mashed bananas, crushed pineapple with juice, applesauce, and oil ensures these Hummingbird Cupcakes stay wonderfully moist and tender.

Can I omit the nuts?

Yes, the pecans are optional and can be omitted for nut-free cupcakes without compromising flavor or texture.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Banana Oatmeal Muffins – Naturally sweetened and packed with fiber.
• Vegan Carrot Cupcakes – A vegetable-packed treat with dairy-free frosting.
• Whole Wheat Banana Bread – A hearty, wholesome loaf perfect for breakfast.
• Healthy Blueberry Muffins – Low in sugar but big on flavor.

Hungry for More?

If you love these Hummingbird Cupcakes, you’ll adore exploring other tropical-inspired desserts like pineapple upside-down cake, banana coconut bars, or spiced carrot cake cupcakes. Experiment with different frostings such as toasted coconut buttercream or rum-infused cream cheese frosting for a fun twist. Baking is all about joy and creativity, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Hummingbird Cupcakes are a sensational treat that marries fruity sweetness with warming spices and a creamy frosting finish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cupcakes are a delicious way to brighten any day. Whether baking for a crowd or a quiet moment of indulgence, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds. Give it a try and watch these cupcakes disappear fast!

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