Looking for the ideal frosting to complement your Hummingbird cake? Look no further than the Hummingbird High cream cheese frosting recipe! The tangy flavor of cream cheese blends beautifully with the cake’s sweet, spiced layers, creating an irresistible pairing. This simple yet effective recipe ensures that your frosting will be rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced in sweetness, making it the perfect finishing touch for this beloved dessert.
What is Hummingbird Frosting?
Hummingbird frosting is a smooth, decadent topping primarily made with cream cheese and butter. It’s commonly paired with Hummingbird cake, a dessert famous for its combination of banana, pineapple, and warm spices. The rich, tangy cream cheese frosting not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist layers of the cake.
This frosting has become a beloved choice for topping cakes and cupcakes, winning over many fans with its rich, flavorful profile. The creamy butter blends seamlessly with the tangy cream cheese, while the sweetness of powdered sugar adds a perfect finishing touch. The result is a frosting that is both decadent and refreshing, striking the ideal balance between flavors.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting
To make this delicious frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2-3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt (optional, to balance the sweetness)
These ingredients combine to create a velvety frosting that’s ideal for frosting cakes, cupcakes, and even cookies!
How to Make Hummingbird Frosting with Cream Cheese
Making this frosting is quick and straightforward. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
It’s important that both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before you start. This ensures that the frosting is smooth and lump-free.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer or a hand whisk to beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar
Slowly add in the sifted powdered sugar. Begin with 2 cups, mixing it in gradually to avoid a sugar cloud. Once the sugar is incorporated and the frosting starts to come together, you can increase the mixer speed. Continue to mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. If you prefer a thicker frosting, add the third cup of powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Flavor It
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The vanilla enhances the sweetness of the frosting, while the salt balances the tangy cream cheese flavor.
Step 5: Frost Your Cake
Your frosting is now ready to use! Spread it generously over your Hummingbird cake using a spatula or a bench scraper for a smooth finish. Make sure to evenly coat the layers, and feel free to add extra frosting on top for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Perfect Frosting
For the best results, keep these tips in mind when making your frosting:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Both the butter and cream cheese should be at room temperature. Cold ingredients will cause lumps and a less smooth texture.
Sift the Powdered Sugar: Sifting the sugar ensures a smoother, lump-free frosting.
Don’t Overmix: Once the frosting is smooth and fluffy, stop mixing. Overmixing can lead to a runny or overly thin frosting.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, simply reduce the amount of powdered sugar to your liking.
FAQ
How do you make Hummingbird frosting with cream cheese? To make this frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add sifted powdered sugar. Once mixed, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to taste. The result is a creamy, tangy frosting that’s perfect for Hummingbird cake.
Does Hummingbird cake with cream cheese icing need to be refrigerated? Yes, because this frosting contains cream cheese, it’s important to refrigerate Hummingbird cake. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
Why did my cream cheese frosting get runny after adding sugar? A runny frosting can be the result of too much butter or not enough powdered sugar. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not too warm, and gradually add the sugar to achieve the right consistency.
What are the ingredients for cream cheese frosting? The basic ingredients for cream cheese frosting are cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. These ingredients come together to form a deliciously creamy frosting with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
Conclusion
This Hummingbird High Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is an essential addition to your baking repertoire, especially if you love rich, creamy frosting on your cakes. The combination of sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting and the moist, flavorful Hummingbird cake is simply irresistible. With minimal ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create the perfect frosting every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, this frosting will take your cake to new heights.