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Hummingbird bread is a delicious, fruity and nutty bread that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. This bread is based on the popular hummingbird cake, which originated in the southern United States. It is a moist and flavorful cake that is typically made with bananas, pineapple, coconut, and pecans.
Hummingbird bread is a twist on the classic cake, with all the same flavors and ingredients, but in a bread form. It is easy to make and can be enjoyed on its own or toasted with butter.
Hummingbird bread is a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a tasty breakfast or snack. It is also a great way to use up any ripe bananas or leftover pineapple you may have on hand. The combination of sweet fruit and nutty flavors in this bread is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Why is it Called Hummingbird Bread?
Hummingbird bread is believed to be named after the hummingbird cake, which originated in the southern United States. The cake is said to be named after the hummingbird bird, which is known for its vibrant colors and sweet nectar.
The hummingbird cake is a popular dessert in the southern states and is made with bananas, crushed pineapple, coconut, and pecans. These same ingredients are used in hummingbird bread, which is essentially a bread version of the cake.
The name “hummingbird” may have been given to the cake and bread because of the sweet flavors and tropical ingredients used, which are said to attract hummingbirds in their natural habitats. The cake and bread are also known for their moist texture and rich flavor, which may be reminiscent of the sweet nectar that hummingbirds feed on.
Overall, the name “hummingbird bread” is likely a nod to the sweet and fruity flavors of the popular hummingbird cake and the tropical ingredients used in its preparation.
Does Cream Cheese Icing Need to be Refrigerated?
Yes, cream cheese icing needs to be refrigerated. Cream cheese is a dairy product that can spoil if left at room temperature for too long. When cream cheese is mixed with other ingredients, such as sugar and butter, to make icing, it becomes even more susceptible to bacterial growth.
To keep cream cheese icing fresh and safe to eat, it should be refrigerated immediately after making and stored in an airtight container. It is best to consume the icing within three to four days of refrigeration to ensure its quality and safety.
If you are using cream cheese icing to frost a cake or cupcakes, it is recommended to keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. If the cake or cupcakes need to be transported, they should be placed in a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs to keep them at a safe temperature.
It is important to note that cream cheese icing can become firm when refrigerated, making it difficult to spread. To soften the icing, you can remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or you can gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds at a time, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can You Freeze Hummingbird Bread?
Yes, you can freeze hummingbird bread. Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of baked goods and can be especially useful if you have leftovers that you want to save for later.
To freeze hummingbird bread, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Once it has cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container with an airtight lid.
When freezing, it is important to label the bread with the date of freezing so that you can keep track of how long it has been in the freezer. Hummingbird bread can be frozen for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture.
To thaw frozen hummingbird bread, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours, or overnight in the refrigerator. Once it has thawed, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
It is important to note that freezing can sometimes affect the texture of baked goods, and while hummingbird bread can be frozen, it may not be quite as moist and tender as it was when it was first baked. However, it should still be delicious and enjoyable, and freezing is a great way to make sure you can enjoy hummingbird bread even after it has been sitting around for a few days.
HUMMINGBIRD BREAD
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups granulated sugar
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9×5 inch loaf pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple to the wet ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the coconut and pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pans and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing and transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
