Hummingbird Bread with Heavenly Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

This hummingbird bread with heavenly cinnamon cream cheese frosting is one of my absolute favorite ways to enjoy a sweet, spiced loaf packed with tropical flavor. Filled with ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla, it bakes up moist and tender every time. Topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it turns from a humble quick bread into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures everything I enjoy in a loaf—moist texture, cozy spice, fruity sweetness, and a decadent topping. It’s like banana bread and carrot cake had a delicious Southern-inspired baby. The cinnamon cream cheese frosting takes it to a whole new level, making it feel indulgent without being too heavy. Whether I’m serving it for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon treat, it never lasts long in my kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the hummingbird bread:

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Ground cinnamon

• Ripe bananas, mashed

• Crushed pineapple (with juice)

• Eggs

• Vegetable oil

• Vanilla extract

• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the cinnamon cream cheese frosting:

• Cream cheese, softened

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Powdered sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugars, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. In another bowl, I combine the mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with juice), eggs, oil, and vanilla. I stir the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined.

4. I fold in chopped nuts if using, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

5. I bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. I let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. For the frosting, I beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. I add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt, and mix until fluffy and well combined.

7. Once the bread is completely cool, I spread the frosting generously over the top and sprinkle with extra cinnamon or nuts if I want a decorative finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf, about 10 slices. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 1 hour to bake, and another 20–30 minutes to cool and frost.

Variations

Sometimes I add shredded coconut or a dash of nutmeg for extra depth. I’ve also made this recipe into muffins or mini loaves for gifting. For a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt in place of some of the oil. If I want it extra decadent, I swirl the frosting into the batter before baking for a ribbon effect.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bread covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best served at room temperature, so I let it sit out for 15–20 minutes before slicing. It also freezes beautifully—just wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight or microwave gently for a quick treat.

FAQs

What makes hummingbird bread different from banana bread?

Hummingbird bread includes crushed pineapple and warm spices in addition to bananas, giving it a tropical, sweet-tangy flavor that’s richer and more complex than classic banana bread.

Can I make this bread without the frosting?

Yes, I’ve made it plenty of times without frosting and it’s still delicious. The bread itself is moist and flavorful on its own.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

You can, but I make sure to include the juice as well. If using fresh, I blend it lightly and measure it with its juices for moisture.

How do I prevent the bread from being too dense?

I mix the batter just until combined and avoid over-stirring. Also, I make sure my baking soda is fresh for a good rise.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I often double the batch to make two loaves. I bake them side by side and rotate the pans halfway through for even baking.

Conclusion

Hummingbird bread with heavenly cinnamon cream cheese frosting is the kind of treat that feels homey, nostalgic, and special all at once. With its fruity sweetness, moist crumb, and that irresistible creamy topping, it’s a recipe I come back to again and again. Whether I’m baking for guests or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this loaf never disappoints.