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If you’re a fan of the classic hummingbird cake, you’ll love exploring its counterpart in bread form.
Hummingbird bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the beloved cake with its combination of tropical flavors like banana, pineapple, and pecans.
In this article, we’ll share several mouthwatering hummingbird bread recipes for you to try at home.
15+ Delicious Hummingbird Bread Recipes to Try Today
These hummingbird bread recipes are versatile and easy to make, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you prefer a classic version, a zucchini-infused twist, or a gluten-free option, you can’t go wrong with these delicious recipes.
Classic Hummingbird Bread
This classic hummingbird bread is a delicious twist on the popular hummingbird cake, featuring bananas, pineapple, pecans, and warm spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This classic hummingbird bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Enjoy it plain or with a smear of cream cheese!
Hummingbird Zucchini Bread
This hummingbird zucchini bread combines the flavors of traditional hummingbird cake with the goodness of shredded zucchini for added moisture and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded zucchini, squeezed of excess moisture
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, shredded zucchini, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This hummingbird zucchini bread is a creative twist on a classic recipe, incorporating the goodness of zucchini for a nutritious and delicious treat.
Gluten-Free Hummingbird Bread
This gluten-free hummingbird bread allows everyone to enjoy the flavors of hummingbird cake without the gluten. It’s moist, tender, and bursting with tropical flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This gluten-free hummingbird bread is a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Hummingbird Banana Nut Bread
This hummingbird banana nut bread combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and banana with the crunch of chopped walnuts for a deliciously satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This hummingbird banana nut bread is a delightful variation that highlights the natural sweetness of bananas and pineapple, complemented by the satisfying crunch of nuts.
Hummingbird Apple Bread
This unique hummingbird apple bread incorporates shredded apples for added moisture and flavor, creating a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded apple (about 1 large apple)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, shredded apple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Hummingbird apple bread offers a delightful blend of tropical flavors from bananas and pineapple, enhanced by the natural sweetness and moisture of shredded apples.
Vegan Hummingbird Bread
This vegan hummingbird bread is egg-free and dairy-free, using plant-based ingredients while still delivering the classic flavors of the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
This vegan hummingbird bread is a wonderful option for those following a plant-based diet, offering the same delightful flavors and moist texture without the use of animal products.
Hummingbird Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl
This hummingbird bread with a cream cheese swirl adds a rich and tangy element to the classic flavors of banana, pineapple, and pecans.
For the bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream cheese swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour half of the bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter and swirl with a knife.
- Repeat with the remaining bread batter and cream cheese mixture.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
The cream cheese swirl in this hummingbird bread adds a delightful tanginess that complements the tropical flavors beautifully.
Hummingbird Bread Muffins
These hummingbird bread muffins are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks, offering all the flavors of hummingbird cake in convenient handheld portions.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
These hummingbird bread muffins are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of hummingbird cake in individual portions.
Hummingbird Bread French Toast
Turn leftover hummingbird bread into a decadent breakfast treat with this hummingbird bread French toast recipe.
Ingredients:
- Slices of day-old hummingbird bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or cooking spray, for cooking
- Maple syrup, chopped pecans, and sliced bananas, for serving
Recipe:
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Dip each slice of hummingbird bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Grease the skillet or griddle with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the bread slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve the hummingbird bread French toast with maple syrup, chopped pecans, and sliced bananas.
This hummingbird bread French toast is a delightful way to repurpose leftover bread into a decadent and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Hummingbird Bread with Coconut
This hummingbird bread with coconut adds a tropical twist to the classic recipe, bringing together flavors of banana, pineapple, pecans, and coconut for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
The addition of shredded coconut adds a delightful tropical flavor and texture to this hummingbird bread, making it perfect for a taste of paradise.
Hummingbird Bread with Orange Zest
This hummingbird bread with orange zest infuses citrusy notes into the classic recipe, adding brightness and freshness to each slice.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, orange zest, and chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
The addition of orange zest brightens up this hummingbird bread, adding a refreshing twist that complements the tropical flavors.
Hummingbird Bread Pudding
Turn hummingbird bread into a luxurious dessert with this hummingbird bread pudding recipe, perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old hummingbird bread, cut into cubes
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Butter, for greasing
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Place the hummingbird bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
- Let the bread soak in the egg mixture for about 15-20 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
This hummingbird bread pudding transforms leftover bread into a decadent dessert that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Hummingbird Bread with Cranberries
This version of hummingbird bread includes tart dried cranberries for a festive touch and added flavor complexity.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
The addition of dried cranberries adds a delightful tartness and chewy texture to this hummingbird bread, making it perfect for the holiday season.
Hummingbird Bread with Lemon Glaze
Elevate your hummingbird bread with a zesty lemon glaze that adds brightness and sweetness to every slice.
For the bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the lemon glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and chopped pecans.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled hummingbird bread.
The tangy lemon glaze adds a burst of citrus flavor that complements the sweetness of the hummingbird bread beautifully.
Hummingbird Bread with Chocolate Chips
Indulge in a decadent version of hummingbird bread by adding chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips.
- In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
The addition of chocolate chips adds a delightful richness to this hummingbird bread, turning it into a decadent treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
Final Thoughts
With these delightful hummingbird bread recipes, you can bring the flavors of the tropics into your kitchen and create a homemade treat that’s sure to impress.
Whether you stick to the classic version or try a variation with zucchini, coconut, or orange zest, each slice of hummingbird bread promises a taste of indulgence.
Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked hummingbird bread in your home.
Happy baking!