The first time I baked a cake like Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake, I was on a mission to impress a group of friends at a small gathering. I had heard of this cake but didn’t know much about it. One look at the recipe and I was instantly intrigued. It promised a flavor-packed, tropical delight, full of pineapple, banana, and nuts. It felt like the perfect combination of sweet and savory. The cake came out moist and delicious, with a tangy cream cheese frosting that was just the right touch.
That cake was the star of the evening, and every time I’ve made it since, I’ve been asked to share the recipe. Whether for birthdays, casual get-togethers, or even just a mid-week treat, Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake never disappoints. It’s one of those cakes that feels like a celebration with every bite.
Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s version of the Hummingbird Cake is everything a great cake should be. It’s rich, moist, and filled with unexpected flavor combinations. You can tell that Jamie has put his signature spin on the recipe, making it both straightforward and full of character.
The blend of tropical fruits like banana and pineapple works harmoniously with the warmth of cinnamon and a subtle tang from the cream cheese frosting. What makes Jamie’s recipe stand out is its balance of flavors. It’s never too sweet or overwhelming but still rich enough to leave an impression.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started, so you’re fully prepared before diving in:
Ingredients Needed
This cake calls for a few unique ingredients, most of which you probably already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 ripe bananas: This is the base of the cake. They add moisture and sweetness.
- 400g can of crushed pineapple: Pineapple adds a tropical freshness and a bit of tang.
- 200g self-raising flour: This makes the cake light and fluffy.
- 200g golden caster sugar: Golden sugar gives the cake a soft, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice that balance the fruit.
- ½ tsp baking powder: To give the cake a little extra lift.
- 2 eggs: For binding and structure.
- 200ml sunflower oil: Keeps the cake moist and helps it rise.
- 100g unsalted pecans or walnuts: For crunch and a deep nutty flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A flavor enhancer that complements the fruity notes.
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For The Icing
- 300g cream cheese
- 100g butter
- 200g icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake
Now let’s talk about the magic of putting it all together. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks!
- Prep the ingredients: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line two round 20cm cake tins.
- Mash the bananas: In a bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. You want them nice and mushy.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the self-raising flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract together until well combined.
- Mix the two: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently. Then, fold in the mashed banana, pineapple, and nuts.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake tins. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Let it cool: Leave the cakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the icing: For the icing, beat the cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous amount of icing on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the rest of the icing.
There you have it! A cake that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When making a cake like Jamie’s Hummingbird Cake, understanding how ingredients interact can make a difference. Here’s a breakdown:
- Bananas: The mashed bananas don’t just add flavor-they provide moisture. Their natural sugars also help balance out the acidity from the pineapple.
- Pineapple: The crushed pineapple doesn’t just lend a tropical vibe, it also keeps the cake moist. The acidity of the pineapple activates the baking soda, helping the cake rise and making it light.
- Oil vs. Butter: The use of sunflower oil instead of butter in the batter keeps the cake extra moist. Oil doesn’t solidify when cooled, which helps preserve the cake’s soft texture.
- Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add not just texture but healthy fats, which contribute to the richness of the cake.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Once the dry ingredients are added, mix just until combined.
- Use Overripe Bananas: Riper bananas have more sweetness and moisture, making them ideal for baking.
- Chill the Frosting: If you find the cream cheese frosting too runny, chill it for about 30 minutes before icing the cake.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of rum to the batter or frosting.
Recipe Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, here are a few variations to try:
- Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter or frosting for a more tropical feel.
- Vegan Version: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
- Spiced Hummingbird Cake: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for a deeper spice profile.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir in some cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a chocolate-hummingbird hybrid cake.
Final Words
Making Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake is more than just following a recipe-it’s about creating something that brings people together. The joy of sharing a slice of cake with friends or family, especially one this good, is a simple but lasting experience. This cake is one of those desserts that seems to get better over time, as the flavors continue to meld together. Whether it’s your first time baking it or your hundredth, each slice will bring a smile to your face.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake Different From Others?
Jamie Oliver’s version uses a mix of ripe bananas, pineapple, and spices for a moist and flavorful cake that’s a little lighter but just as delicious.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Hummingbird Cake Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the cake can be baked in advance. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
What Frosting Does Jamie Oliver Recommend For Hummingbird Cake?
He suggests a cream cheese frosting, which adds a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the moist cake.