From The Galley: Not Your Mama's Fruit Cake

From The Galley: Not Your Mama's Fruit Cake

The first Hummingbird Cake recipe was published by  magazine in 1978. It  soon became the most requested recipe in the magazine’s history! Impress your holiday guests with this delicious take on the traditional Christmas fruit cake and try a Hummingbird Cake recipe that has been passed down through the generations.

Hummingbird Cake almost tastes like banana bread and carrot cake had a baby together. The banana flavor overshadows the pineapple, but the pineapple no doubt helps create a moist cake and the little pieces of pineapple help give Hummingbird Cake its unique texture.

 INGREDIENTS:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• 1⅓ cups vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1¾ cups very ripe banana, mashed
• 2 cups toasted chopped pecans, divided
• 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 6 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, cut into 1-ounce pieces and chilled

* Add if desired- maraschino cherries

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease and flour 3 9-inch cake pans.

In a large bowl, combine flour, 2 cups sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and allspice.

Add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs and stir just until dry ingredients are moistened.

Stir in banana, 1 cup pecans, and pineapple just until evenly mixed.

Divide batter evenly between the 3 cake pans. Place in oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool in pans for 10 minutes and then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

To make frosting, use and electric mixer to beat together butter and powdered sugar, adding powdered sugar gradually. Add vanilla extract and salt and mix until smooth.

With mixer on medium, add 1 piece of cream cheese at a time. Turn mixer off once all cream cheese has been incorporated.

Spread frosting between layers of cake and cover top and sides. Sprinkle remaining chopped pecans on top.

If desired, crush additional nuts and press them into the sides of the frosting, and put sliced maraschino cherries on top of the cake.

all over will be filled with happy guests after they taste this treat of a recipe, Hummingbird Cake or Not Your Mama's Fruit Cake. A holiday recipe you have to try. 

In recent years, rattan furniture has made a huge comeback, becoming a favorite among interior designers and homeowners alike. Whether you're going for a laid-back Bohemian beach vibe or a sleek modern coastal condo-look, rattan pieces can bring an effortless, stylish touch to any room. With its versatility, texture, and sustainability, rattan is no longer just a trend—it’s a timeless choice that elevates your home décor.

Why Rattan is the Perfect Choice for Your Home

Rattan, often associated with tropical and bohemian designs, has evolved beyond its niche, blending seamlessly with a variety of home aesthetics. From the rustic charm of beach cottages to the sleek lines of urban coastal condos, rattan is a versatile material that adapts to any space. Whether it's a vintage-inspired rattan armchair or a contemporary light fixture, these pieces add a natural, earthy charm that feels both timeless and on-trend.

The secret to its appeal lies in the material itself. Lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly, rattan can be molded into almost any shape, making it perfect for a wide range of furniture and home accents. It’s the perfect balance between style and function, bringing warmth, texture, and character into any room.

Sustainable Style: Why Rattan is a Responsible Choice

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, rattan is a sustainable option for eco-conscious homeowners. Unlike other materials that require extensive resources or have a heavy environmental footprint, rattan grows quickly and abundantly in tropical regions. It's a renewable resource that thrives in areas where deforestation is a concern, making it an environmentally-friendly choice for furniture and home décor.

By incorporating rattan into your home, you're not only embracing a chic, natural look, but you’re also supporting a more sustainable future. Rattan’s long lifespan and durability mean your pieces will stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements. It’s an investment in both style and sustainability.

How to Incorporate Rattan Into Your Home

One of the best things about rattan furniture is how adaptable it is. Whether you're outfitting a small apartment or redecorating a spacious home, there’s a rattan piece to suit every space. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Furniture: From rattan chairs, benches to coffee tables and sideboards, rattan furniture can add texture and warmth to any room. A rattan armchair in the living room or a rattan dining set can instantly make the space feel inviting and relaxed.
• Lighting: Rattan light fixtures are a beautiful way to introduce texture and warmth without overpowering the room. A rattan pendant light in the kitchen or a woven rattan lamp in the bedroom can soften the atmosphere while creating a cozy, bohemian-inspired vibe.
• Accents & Accessories: Not ready to overhaul your entire home with rattan furniture? Start small with accents. Think rattan trays, mirrors, baskets, or wall art. These accessories bring the material into your home without committing to large pieces.
• Outdoor Spaces: Synthetic Rattan is also perfect choice for covered patios and balconies. The durability of the material makes it ideal for outdoor furniture, while its light, airy feel complements nature. Consider a synthetic rattan lounge chair or a set of rattan dining chairs to create an inviting outdoor oasis.

Embrace the Timeless Look of Rattan in Your Home

Rattan is more than just a trend—it’s a style choice that’s here to stay. Its versatility, sustainability, and natural beauty make it a perfect addition to any room in your home. Whether you’re looking to refresh your beach house or add a touch of coastal charm to an urban apartment, rattan offers a timeless look that can elevate your décor for years to come.

So, why not bring a little piece of nature inside? Add some of our newest rattan pieces to your home, and you’ll instantly notice how they transform your space with a fresh, organic vibe that never goes out of style.