Auntie Clara's Hummingbird Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 2 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cups confectioners' sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• extra pecans, for garnish

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. This cake is meant to be grand, so don't try to squeeze it into two pans, bless it.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is good and mixed so you don't get a bite of just baking soda later.

3. 3

   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the vegetable oil, mashed bananas, and the undrained crushed pineapple. This is where all that lovely moisture comes from.

4. 4

   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don't overmix, now; you want a tender crumb, not a tough one.

5. 5

   Gently fold in the chopped pecans. We Southerners love our pecans, and they add such a wonderful texture to this cake.

6. 6

   Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can be a bit temperamental.

7. 7

   Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Don't try to frost a warm cake, or all your hard work will just slide right off.

8. 8

   For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, beating until light and fluffy, then stir in the vanilla extract.

9. 9

   Once the cakes are completely cool, frost between the layers, on top, and around the sides. Garnish with extra chopped pecans, if your heart desires.

10. 10

    Slice yourself a generous piece and enjoy! This cake is perfect for Sunday supper or any time you need a little sweet comfort.

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