Jamie Oliver Hummingbird Cake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I still remember the first time I tasted a slice of hummingbird cake. It was at a small family gathering, and my aunt brought this stunning cake that seemed to glow with warmth and sweetness. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and spices was unlike anything I’d had before. It felt like a slice of sunshine.

That memory stuck with me, and when I discovered Jamie Oliver’s take on this classic Southern cake, I was curious. Jamie has a knack for taking traditional recipes and adding his own fresh spin. His hummingbird cake is rich, moist, and bursting with tropical flavors but still incredibly approachable for home bakers.

If you’re ready for a cake that’s not just a dessert but an experience, this is it. Let’s explore the recipe step-by-step and get you baking your own piece of joyful nostalgia.

Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s hummingbird cake takes the classic version and makes it just a little bit lighter and fresher. He balances the sweet tropical fruit with a smooth cream cheese frosting that isn’t overly sugary. This cake isn’t just about the taste-it’s about the texture too. Moist crumb, tender spice, and a tangy cream cheese finish.

What makes Jamie’s recipe stand out:

• Use of fresh bananas and canned pineapple for perfect moisture
• A gentle blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg
• A fluffy, whipped cream cheese frosting that’s not too dense
• Simple enough for home cooks but impressive enough for guests

This is more than a recipe-it’s a celebration in every bite.

Ingredients Needed

Gathering the right ingredients is key to getting that perfect hummingbird cake. Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie Oliver’s version:

• Bananas – ripe and sweet for natural moisture and flavor
• Canned pineapple – crushed, adds tropical sweetness and tang
• Plain flour – the base for a tender crumb
• Baking powder & baking soda – for rise and lightness
• Cinnamon & nutmeg – warm spices that give depth and aroma
• Caster sugar – sweetens but also helps with the cake’s moisture
• Eggs – bind everything together and add richness
• Vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist and soft
• Vanilla extract – enhances the flavors subtly
• Cream cheese – the star of the frosting, smooth and tangy
• Butter – for richness in the frosting
• Icing sugar – sweetens the frosting perfectly
• Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans – for added crunch and texture

Make sure the bananas are very ripe, almost spotted. That’s when their sweetness is at its peak. The canned pineapple can be fresh crushed if you prefer, but the canned version gives a consistent flavor and texture.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake

Baking this cake feels like a little project, but Jamie breaks it down into easy steps that anyone can follow.

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake tins.
2. Mix dry ingredients: Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat sugar and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time and vanilla extract.
4. Combine: Fold the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple into the wet mixture.
5. Blend dry and wet: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
6. Add nuts if using, folding them in gently.
7. Divide batter evenly between the prepared tins.
8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. Use a skewer to check if it comes out clean.
9. Cool cakes in tins for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack.
10. Make frosting: Beat cream cheese, softened butter, and icing sugar until smooth and fluffy.
11. Assemble: Spread frosting on the first cake layer, place the second layer on top, and finish with frosting on the top and sides.
12. Optional decoration: Sprinkle with extra nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Ever wondered why hummingbird cake is so moist and tender? It all comes down to ingredient chemistry.

• Bananas: They provide natural sugars and moisture. The pectin in bananas helps bind moisture and create a soft crumb.
• Pineapple: Contains enzymes like bromelain that tenderize the cake’s gluten, giving a delicate texture.
• Oil: Unlike butter, oil remains liquid at room temperature, which keeps the cake moist longer.
• Baking soda + acid (from pineapple): This combo creates a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide bubbles, making the cake rise light and fluffy.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg don’t just add flavor; their essential oils also have antioxidant properties, making your cake a little healthier!

Understanding these ingredients gives you the power to tweak the recipe without losing that classic texture and flavor.

Expert Tips

From my own baking and from Jamie’s advice, here are some pro tips to nail this cake every time:

• Use ripe bananas! Under-ripe means less sweetness and less moisture.
• Don’t overmix the batter. Stir until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
• If you can, use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting. Warm cake will melt the cream cheese frosting.
• For a richer flavor, toast the nuts lightly before folding them into the batter.
• Use room temperature ingredients. This helps everything blend smoothly.
• Store the cake in the fridge but bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Recipe Variations

Want to get creative? Jamie’s recipe is flexible, so here are some ways to personalize your hummingbird cake:

• Add shredded coconut for an extra tropical vibe.
• Swap cream cheese frosting for whipped mascarpone for a lighter finish.
• Make cupcakes using the same batter for individual treats.
• Try adding chopped dried mango or papaya for different fruit textures.
• Add a splash of rum or vanilla bean paste to the batter for a flavor boost.
• Use gluten-free flour to make the cake accessible for all diets.

Each twist brings something new but keeps the heart of the cake intact.

Final Words

Baking Jamie Oliver’s hummingbird cake feels like making a memory. The warmth of the spices, the sweetness of the fruit, and the tangy frosting come together like a delicious story. It’s a recipe that invites sharing, whether at a family gathering or a quiet afternoon tea.

The joy is in the process – mashing bananas, folding the batter, and decorating the cake. It’s not just about the end product but about the comfort and pride you get from making something special with your own hands.

FAQs

What Is A Hummingbird Cake?

A hummingbird cake is a moist, spiced cake made with mashed bananas, pineapple, and walnuts. It’s often topped with cream cheese frosting.

Does Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake Have Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes! Jamie Oliver’s version includes a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting that pairs perfectly with the spiced cake.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake Gluten-free?

Yes! You can swap the flour with a gluten-free blend to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

How Long Do I Need To Bake The Hummingbird Cake?

Jamie Oliver’s hummingbird cake bakes for around 45-50 minutes at 180°C (350°F), or until a skewer comes out clean.

What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Walnuts For The Hummingbird Cake?

You can replace walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Or, you can leave them out if you prefer a nut-free cake.

Can I Use Frozen Pineapple For The Hummingbird Cake?

Yes, frozen pineapple works just fine. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before adding it to the batter.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. It can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.

Can I Make The Cake In Advance?

Definitely! You can make the cake a day or two ahead and refrigerate it. Just frost it right before serving.

Can I Skip The Pineapple In Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake?

You can skip it, but the pineapple adds moisture and sweetness. Try replacing it with applesauce or extra bananas if needed.

What’s The Secret To Making The Cake So Moist?

The secret is in the combination of mashed bananas and pineapple. They create a super moist texture that keeps the cake fresh for days.