Hummingbird Cake with Pineapple Jam is a luscious Southern dessert with a tropical upgrade you’ll fall in love with at first bite. It combines ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, and warm cinnamon—but what sets this version apart is the sweet-tart layer of pineapple jam nestled between moist cake layers. The jam adds depth, moisture, and a delightful contrast to the tangy cream cheese frosting. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this showstopping cake from scratch, how to layer it like a pro, and how to store or adapt it for different occasions—all with clear, easy-to-follow steps.
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Hummingbird Cake with Pineapple Jam
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A Southern classic gets a fruity twist with sweet pineapple jam layered between moist banana-pineapple cake and finished with cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup crushed pineapple with juice
1/2 cup pineapple jam
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups almond flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup chopped pecans
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, sugar, eggs, and oil until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
6. Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
7. Place first cake layer on stand. Pipe a frosting border and spread 2 tablespoons pineapple jam in center.
8. Repeat with second layer. Add top layer and frost entire cake.
9. Decorate with extra pecans or fresh pineapple if desired. Chill slightly before slicing.
Notes
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
To make as a 9×13 cake, bake for 40–45 minutes and swirl jam on top before frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: hummingbird cake, pineapple jam cake, southern dessert
Table of Contents
Baking Memories with Hummingbird Cake with Pineapple Jam
A Slice of Family and Flavor
One of my clearest memories growing up is baking with my grandmother in her tiny mountain kitchen outside Asheville. She made hummingbird cake the old-fashioned way—dense, moist, and always with a generous smear of cream cheese frosting. But the first time I added pineapple jam between the layers? Game changer. It added just enough brightness to cut through the richness, and somehow made the whole cake taste like summer. Now, hummingbird cake with pineapple jam is what I bring to birthdays, barbecues, and rainy Sundays alike.
Why This Version Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Box
The classic hummingbird cake is already a crowd-pleaser, but adding pineapple jam brings something exciting and slightly nostalgic—almost like jam cake and spice cake got together and did something bold. The jam’s sticky texture melts into the layers just enough to keep things moist, without overpowering the banana-pineapple combo we all love. It also helps tie the flavors together into one unforgettable bite. Whether you’re making this for a party or just because your bananas went brown on the counter, this variation is worth every minute in the kitchen. If you enjoy cakes that balance rich flavor with vibrant fruit, my blueberry almond clafoutis offers a lighter, custardy twist.
Building Flavor with the Right Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Hummingbird Cake with Pineapple Jam
Great baking starts with quality ingredients—and this hummingbird cake with pineapple jam is no exception. At its heart, the cake is a moist, spiced quick-bread-style batter that relies on bananas and pineapple for flavor and texture. Choose overripe bananas for natural sweetness and a soft, moist crumb. Opt for canned crushed pineapple packed in juice to add a fresh burst of tropical flavor without excess sugar.
Now, for the game changer: pineapple jam. You’ll layer it between the cake rounds before frosting, giving each slice an extra punch of flavor. Look for jam that’s thick but spreadable—not too runny—or make your own by reducing pineapple with sugar and a squeeze of lemon. You’ll also need chopped pecans for crunch, eggs, oil (we recommend neutral oils like canola or vegetable), and almond flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. And don’t forget the cream cheese frosting—it’s the perfect finish for this hummingbird cake with pineapple jam masterpiece.
Ingredient Substitutions and Customizations
While this version sticks to tradition with a twist, it’s easy to make substitutions based on what you have or dietary needs. Gluten-free all-purpose blends work well here—just make sure it includes xanthan gum. If you’re avoiding nuts, skip the pecans or use sunflower seeds for a similar texture. Vegan? Replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs, and opt for plant-based cream cheese paired with your favorite vegan-friendly jam.
You can even play with the jam: mango or passionfruit jam would offer a fun tropical spin. Or for a fall version, try fig or pear preserves. No matter how you customize it, the essence of hummingbird cake with pineapple jam remains indulgent, moist, and unforgettable. And for those who like a nutty finish, you’ll love the chocolate pistachio cheesecake bars—elegant, creamy, and totally satisfying.
Bringing It Together – Bake, Layer, and Love
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Moist Crumb
Baking this hummingbird cake with pineapple jam is simpler than it sounds. Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease three 8-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (juice included), sugar, eggs, and oil until smooth. In a separate bowl, almond flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir the dry and wet ingredients together until just combined, then carefully fold in the chopped pecans
Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the layers completely before assembly—this ensures the jam and frosting don’t slide.
Frosting, Filling & Layering Like a Pro
Begin by applying a light layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first cake layer. Next, pipe a ring of frosting around the edge to create a barrier, then spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of pineapple jam into the center and gently spread it within the frosting border. Repeat for the second layer. Top with the final cake layer and cover the whole cake with a thick coat of frosting.
For a polished finish, run a bench scraper or offset spatula around the sides. Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or thin pineapple slices for garnish. Now your hummingbird cake with pineapple jam is ready to shine.
Prefer quick wins? Try my white chocolate pretzels for a sweet-salty snack that comes together in minutes.
Serving, Storing & Smart Variations
How to Serve Hummingbird Cake with Pineapple Jam
This hummingbird cake with pineapple jam is the kind of dessert that turns a regular day into a celebration. Serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature to highlight the moist crumb and contrast of tangy frosting and sweet jam. Pair it with hot coffee, spiced tea, or even a splash of cold milk for a nostalgic treat. For special occasions, top each slice with a fresh pineapple wedge or a swirl of whipped cream.
Storage, Freezing & Sheet Pan Shortcut
Wrap any leftovers securely and refrigerate them for up to four days. The jam layer helps the cake stay soft, even when chilled. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Need to simplify? This hummingbird cake with pineapple jam adapts beautifully to a 9×13 pan. Skip the layering and just swirl pineapple jam across the top before frosting—it’s still gorgeous and just as delicious.
FAQs About Hummingbird Cake with Pineapple Jam
What is the filling for hummingbird cake?
Traditional hummingbird cake often doesn’t include a filling beyond cream cheese frosting. But in this version, pineapple jam serves as a sweet, tangy filling between the layers. It complements the banana-pineapple batter and adds depth to every bite, making this hummingbird cake with pineapple jam truly stand out.
What’s the difference between carrot cake and hummingbird cake?
While both cakes are moist and spiced, carrot cake uses grated carrots as the base, often with nuts and sometimes pineapple. Hummingbird cake, on the other hand, uses mashed bananas and crushed pineapple as its fruit base, giving it a softer, sweeter profile. It also pairs beautifully with fruit fillings like pineapple jam.
Why is it called a hummingbird cake?
The name likely comes from the cake’s sweetness—legend says it’s “sweet enough to attract hummingbirds.” Originally from Jamaica, where it was called “Doctor Bird Cake,” it became popular in the Southern U.S. in the 1970s.
Can hummingbird cake be made in a 9×13 pan?
Absolutely. This hummingbird cake with pineapple jam adapts well to a sheet cake. Just pour the batter into a greased 9×13 pan and bake for 40–45 minutes. Once cooled, swirl the jam across the top under a thick layer of frosting. Easy and delicious!
Conclusion
There’s something comforting and just a little tropical about a well-made hummingbird cake with pineapple jam. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people back for seconds and turns simple ingredients into something magical. Whether you serve it stacked for a party or sheet-style for a cozy Sunday afternoon, this cake is your invitation to bake with love and memory—just like we do in my kitchen outside Asheville. Discover delicious inspiration every day on HomemadeCake’s Pinterest, and stay updated with our newest recipes by following us on Medium.
