The Best Hummingbird Bakery

Hummingbird Bakery: A Sweet Revolution in London Baking

Hummingbird Bakery revolutionized London’s culinary scene when it opened in 2004 on Portobello Road, introducing authentic American-style baking techniques to a British audience hungry for something new.

Key Takeaways

• Hummingbird Bakery’s red velvet cupcakes and rainbow cakes are among their most iconic offerings, featuring authentic American recipes and techniques.
• The bakery maintains quality through a small-batch philosophy, premium ingredients, and rigorous standards that ensure consistency across all locations.
• Beyond retail sales, they offer baking classes, corporate team-building, and have published a successful cookbook series with over 1.5 million copies sold.
• Each location embodies the unique character of its neighborhood, from buzzing Soho to relaxed Richmond, while maintaining the same delicious quality.
• For the best experience, visit during mid-morning weekdays, join their loyalty program, and explore their seasonal menu items that change throughout the year.

To learn more about their menus, events, or to book a baking class, visit the official Hummingbird Bakery website.

A Taste Of American-Style Baking In London’s Heart

The sweet aroma of vanilla and buttercream that now feels so familiar in London’s culinary scene wasn’t always part of the city’s landscape. In 2004, Hummingbird Bakery changed this forever when it opened its doors on Portobello Road, introducing Londoners to authentic American-style baking.

I remember the first time I visited that original Notting Hill location—it stood out immediately with its distinctive red and white branding, promising something different from the traditional British patisseries that dominated the scene. The founding concept was brilliantly simple: bring genuine American baking techniques and recipes to a British audience hungry for something new.

From Cupcake Pioneer To London Institution

The timing couldn’t have been better. Just as cupcakes were gaining global attention through shows like Sex and the City, Hummingbird Bakery arrived with perfect execution of these miniature treats. Their signature buttercream recipe quickly became the talk of the town—generously swirled atop moist cake bases in flavors ranging from classic red velvet to innovative seasonal specials.

What sets Hummingbird apart is their unwavering commitment to authenticity. Each recipe is crafted using traditional American baking methods, with ingredients measured by volume rather than weight (a distinctly American approach). The result? Cakes and cupcakes with that perfect balance of sweetness and texture that’s often missing in European interpretations.

The bakery’s expansion across London reflects its massive popularity. From the original Portobello Road shop, Hummingbird has grown to six prime locations in some of London’s trendiest neighborhoods:

• Notting Hill (the original Portobello Road location)
• South Kensington
• Soho
• Spitalfields
• Islington
• Richmond

Each location maintains the same quality while reflecting the unique character of its neighborhood. The Soho branch buzzes with the energy of central London, while the Richmond location offers a more relaxed vibe for weekend visitors seeking freshly baked muffins and coffee.

Beyond their famous cupcakes, Hummingbird has expanded their menu to include a range of American classics. Their homestyle snickerdoodle cookies bring a taste of American childhood to London, while their layer cakes—standing tall and proud with generous frosting—make statement centerpieces for celebrations.

What’s particularly impressive about Hummingbird’s success is how they’ve maintained quality across expansion. Each cherry chip cake or red velvet cupcake tastes identical regardless of which location you visit—a testament to their strong training and quality control.

The bakery’s influence extends beyond their physical locations. Their cookbook series has sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide, allowing fans to recreate their famous frosting recipes at home. Though many try, there’s still something special about enjoying these treats in their original setting, where the perfect icing technique is on display in glass cases that still cause lines to form during peak hours.

From a single shop with a vision to bring authentic American baking to London, Hummingbird Bakery has grown into a beloved institution that’s changed how Londoners think about cakes and baking. By staying true to their original mission while strategically expanding, they’ve created something that feels both nostalgically American and perfectly at home in London’s diverse food landscape.

Must-Try Signature Treats

When I step into The Hummingbird Bakery, I’m immediately drawn to their display of indulgent treats that have earned them their stellar reputation. Their signature offerings combine classic American baking traditions with creative twists that keep customers coming back for more.

Show-Stopping Cakes and Cupcakes

The red velvet cupcake stands as perhaps the most iconic treat in the Hummingbird lineup. Each bite delivers that distinct cocoa-infused flavor topped with silky smooth cream cheese buttercream that’s perfectly tangy and sweet. The vibrant red color creates an eye-catching contrast against the frosting, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.

For those who prefer a more traditional flavor, the classic vanilla cupcake showcases Hummingbird’s attention to detail. The moist, light sponge provides the perfect base for their signature buttercream frosting that’s whipped to perfection. The simplicity allows the quality ingredients to shine through in every bite.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the rainbow cake is guaranteed to impress. Each colorful layer is stacked and frosted with care, creating a stunning visual effect when sliced. The velvety icing between layers adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the airy sponge.

Irresistible Cookies and Treats

Double chocolate chip cookies are another must-try item that I can’t resist. These treats strike the perfect balance between chewy centers and slightly crisp edges. The generous amount of chocolate chunks throughout ensures chocolate in every bite, making them ideal for serious chocolate lovers.

The whoopie pies offer a delightful twist on traditional cookies. These soft, cake-like cookies are sandwiched together with a generous filling—typically marshmallow cream or buttercream—creating a portable dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. The classic cookie varieties like chocolate and red velvet are particularly popular.

Beyond these signature items, Hummingbird Bakery offers seasonal specialties that are worth exploring:

• Pumpkin spice muffins in autumn with cinnamon cream cheese frosting
• Festive gingerbread cupcakes during the holiday season
• Fresh fruit-topped cheesecakes in summer
• Cherry chip cakes for special celebrations

What makes Hummingbird Bakery treats stand out is their commitment to authentic American baking. Each item is made fresh daily using quality ingredients, with no preservatives or additives. The bakery maintains strict quality control, ensuring consistency across all their locations.

For first-time visitors, I recommend starting with their signature red velvet cupcake to truly understand what makes this bakery special. Then, branch out to try their seasonal offerings or classic cookies. Many customers develop fierce loyalty to particular items, returning specifically for their favorite treat.

The portion sizes at Hummingbird strike a satisfying balance—generous enough to feel indulgent without being overwhelming. This makes it easy to sample multiple items without feeling guilty, which is exactly what I find myself doing on most visits.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick sweet treat during your lunch break or selecting a showstopper cake for a special occasion, Hummingbird Bakery’s signature treats deliver consistent quality and flavor that’s made them a beloved institution in the world of American-style baking.

What Makes Their Baking Special

The Hummingbird Bakery‘s distinct charm comes from their dedication to authenticity. Their recipes aren’t just inspired by American classics—they’re the real deal. Every cupcake, brownie, and pie captures the essence of traditional American baking without compromise.

Premium Ingredients and Careful Techniques

I’ve found that exceptional baking always starts with quality ingredients. The Hummingbird Bakery elevates their creations by carefully selecting premium components, with an emphasis on locally-sourced products whenever possible. This commitment shows in every bite. Their smooth buttercream frosting recipe benefits from using fresh, high-quality butter that creates an unmistakable richness.

What truly sets them apart is their small-batch philosophy. Unlike mass-produced bakery items, Hummingbird treats are crafted in limited quantities throughout the day. This approach ensures that customers receive freshly-baked goods rather than items that have been sitting for hours. The difference is immediately noticeable in the texture and taste.

Their traditional methods stand in stark contrast to industrial baking. Hand-mixing remains a cornerstone of their process, allowing bakers to feel the exact moment when a batter reaches the perfect consistency. While it takes more time, this hands-on approach produces superior results that mechanical mixing simply can’t replicate.

For specialty items like their cherry chip cake, this manual attention creates a more even distribution of ingredients and the ideal crumb structure.

Rigorous Quality Standards

The bakery’s commitment to excellence extends beyond ingredients to include stringent quality control. Each baked good must meet specific standards before reaching the display case:

• Visual appeal must match their established aesthetic
• Texture should be consistent with their recipe specifications
• Flavor profiles need to hit exact notes with proper balance
• Freshness is non-negotiable—items past their prime are removed

These standards aren’t arbitrary. They’re refined through years of customer feedback and professional baking experience. The result is a consistent product line that customers can trust every visit.

For specialty items like their famous Red Velvet cupcakes, each batch undergoes multiple checks throughout the preparation process. The cake must have a tender crumb with just the right hint of cocoa, while the cream cheese frosting needs the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.

This attention to detail extends to seasonal offerings as well. Holiday specials receive the same care as their staples, maintaining the quality customers expect while introducing creative seasonal flavors.

The combination of authentic recipes, quality ingredients, hand-crafting in small batches, and strict standards creates an experience that’s increasingly rare in today’s world. While many bakeries have shifted toward automation and cost-cutting, Hummingbird remains devoted to traditional methods that produce superior results.

Their classic snickerdoodle cookies showcase this philosophy perfectly. The hand-rolled dough, precise cinnamon-sugar coating, and careful monitoring during baking create a cookie with the ideal balance of crisp edges and chewy centers that mass production simply can’t match.

While these methods are more labor-intensive and time-consuming, they’re essential to the bakery’s identity. This commitment to craft explains why customers form lines outside their locations and why their signature buttercream icing has developed such a devoted following.

Beyond The Counter Experience

My time at Hummingbird Bakery has shown me that their commitment extends far beyond selling baked goods. They’ve created a comprehensive experience that invites customers to engage with their brand in multiple ways, whether you’re looking to learn new skills, celebrate special occasions, or bring their flavors into your own kitchen.

Immersive Baking Experiences

Hummingbird Bakery’s baking classes and workshops stand out as some of the most popular offerings beyond their counter service. These hands-on sessions cater to all skill levels—from complete beginners to experienced home bakers looking to refine their techniques. I’ve found their cupcake decorating masterclass particularly enlightening, where participants learn to create the bakery’s signature swirl frosting using professional piping techniques.

The workshops typically accommodate small groups of 8–12 people, creating an intimate learning environment. What makes these classes special is the direct instruction from Hummingbird’s professional bakers who share insider tips you won’t find in standard recipes. Many participants are surprised to learn the specific techniques for achieving that perfect buttercream consistency that Hummingbird is famous for.

For corporate team-building, Hummingbird offers specialized packages that transform baking into a collaborative activity. These sessions have become increasingly popular for businesses looking for creative alternatives to standard team events. The bakery’s corporate catering service extends this relationship, providing branded cupcakes and cookie platters for office events, client meetings, and corporate celebrations.

The seasonal workshop calendar reflects the bakery’s rotating menu, with special classes dedicated to holiday-themed treats like Halloween cake pops or Christmas gingerbread houses. I’ve noticed these seasonal offerings consistently sell out weeks in advance, particularly their cherry chip cake decorating classes which coincide with their summer menu updates.

Custom Creations & Publications

The custom cake ordering service represents another dimension of Hummingbird’s extended offerings. This bespoke service allows customers to collaborate with the bakery’s designers to create personalized celebration cakes. The process typically begins with a consultation where clients discuss their vision, flavor preferences, and design elements.

What separates Hummingbird’s custom service from competitors is their attention to flavor integrity—even their most elaborate design-focused cakes maintain the same quality and taste as their counter offerings. The bakery requires a 72-hour minimum notice for custom orders, though more complex designs may need additional lead time, especially during peak wedding and graduation seasons.

For those who want to recreate Hummingbird magic at home, the bakery has published a successful cookbook series. These beautifully photographed collections include:

• The Hummingbird Bakery Cookbook (their original collection of core recipes)
• Cake Days (focused on celebration and holiday baking)
• Home Sweet Home (featuring American classics with British twists)
• Life is Sweet (their newest compilation with exclusive recipes)

Each book breaks down the bakery’s methods into approachable steps for home bakers. I’ve tried several recipes from these cookbooks and found the zucchini muffins recipe particularly faithful to what you’d taste in-store. The instructions include specific techniques that help achieve that distinctive Hummingbird texture and flavor profile.

The bakery refreshes its in-store menu on a seasonal basis, typically introducing 3–4 new items quarterly while maintaining their bestselling staples. These limited-time offerings create anticipation among regular customers and provide fresh inspiration for their workshops and classes. Fall brings spiced pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, while summer features lighter options like lemon snickerdoodle cookies and berry-topped cheesecakes.

The seasonal menu development process typically begins months in advance, with the bakery team testing and refining recipes before introducing them to the public. This constant innovation keeps the Hummingbird experience fresh while honoring the classic American baking traditions that formed the foundation of their brand.

Planning Your Visit

Arriving at the right time can make your Hummingbird Bakery experience truly delightful. I’ve found that mid-morning weekdays (Tuesday through Thursday) typically offer the most peaceful atmosphere, with shorter queues and a more relaxed vibe. If weekends are your only option, try to arrive either right after opening or during mid-afternoon lulls around 3-4pm when the lunch crowds have dispersed.

For those special celebrations, don’t leave things to chance. Hummingbird’s custom cakes and seasonal specialties often sell out quickly, especially during holidays. I recommend placing pre-orders at least 48 hours in advance for regular items and up to two weeks for custom celebration cakes. This foresight guarantees you’ll get exactly what you want without disappointment.

Location Highlights & Expectations

Each Hummingbird Bakery location has developed its own personality and specialties worth seeking out:

• Soho branch excels with their Red Velvet cupcakes and seasonal fruit pies
• South Kensington offers exceptional Rainbow cake slices and expanded vegan options
• Notting Hill features exclusive limited-edition flavors that rotate monthly
• Spitalfields location specializes in classic buttercream cupcakes with creative toppings

Price-wise, prepare for premium pastry pricing reflecting the bakery’s quality ingredients and craftsmanship. Individual cupcakes typically range from £3.50–£4.75, while whole cakes start around £26 for a 6-inch and can reach £55+ for larger celebration sizes. I find their afternoon tea packages (available at select locations) offer good value at £18–£22 per person if you’re looking to sample multiple treats.

Dietary restrictions won’t limit your enjoyment at Hummingbird. The bakery has expanded its menu significantly in recent years to include:

• Gluten-free versions of best-selling cupcakes (available daily)
• Rotating vegan options including their famous vegan muffin selection
• Reduced-sugar alternatives (call ahead for availability)
• Nut-free preparation areas for those with allergies

For families visiting with children, I suggest the weekday “Little Baker” hours (typically 10–11am), when the atmosphere is more accommodating to younger guests and staff can take extra time explaining the colorful displays. Many locations also offer kid-sized portions of popular treats.

Don’t forget to ask about seasonal specials not listed on the regular menu. During my visits, I’ve discovered limited-time treats like their cherry chip cakes in summer and pumpkin spice delights in autumn that quickly became favorites.

If you’re picking up treats to enjoy elsewhere, bring a sturdy carrier or request their branded boxes (small additional fee applies) to protect your delicate purchases. The staff are generally happy to provide temperature-specific storage advice for your selected items.

For the complete experience, pair your sweet treat with their specially selected coffee blends or loose-leaf teas. The South Kensington location particularly shines with its expanded beverage menu featuring seasonal drink specials that complement their baked goods perfectly.

By timing your visit thoughtfully and knowing what to expect, your Hummingbird Bakery experience can transform from a simple bakery stop into a memorable culinary highlight. Their commitment to quality across all locations ensures that whichever branch you visit, you’ll leave satisfied and likely planning your next return.

Inside Tips For The Best Experience

Timing Your Visit for Freshness

I’ve learned that timing is crucial when visiting Hummingbird Bakery. Arriving early in the morning—ideally within the first hour of opening—guarantees access to the fullest, freshest selection of baked goods. The bakery prepares items fresh each morning, and popular favorites like Red Velvet cupcakes and Whoopie Pies often sell out by mid-afternoon. This early arrival strategy is especially important on weekends when foot traffic increases significantly.

The bakery also follows seasonal flavor schedules that change throughout the year. During summer months, you’ll find lighter options featuring fresh berries and citrus flavors, while autumn brings warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg in their seasonal snickerdoodle cookies. Winter showcases rich chocolate and peppermint combinations, perfect for holiday gifting. Spring introduces floral notes and bright fruit flavors, including their renowned zucchini muffins with hints of orange.

Maximizing Value and Special Occasions

The bakery’s loyalty program offers substantial benefits for regular customers. After signing up, you’ll earn points with each purchase that can be redeemed for free items. The program includes:

• Birthday treats (typically a free cupcake during your birthday month)
• Early access to seasonal menu items
• Exclusive tasting events for members only
• Occasional double-point days announced via email

Their special holiday offerings deserve special attention, with buttercream frosting designs that change for each major holiday. Valentine’s Day features heart-shaped cookies, while Halloween brings cleverly decorated cupcakes with spooky themes. Christmas offerings include gingerbread houses and festive yule logs that require pre-ordering at least 48 hours in advance.

For social media enthusiasts, it’s worth noting their photography policies. While photos are generally welcome in the bakery, they ask customers to be mindful of other guests when taking pictures. The staff is typically accommodating for quick photos of your purchases, and the distinctive cherry chip cake slices make for particularly Instagram-worthy shots with their vibrant red specks against vanilla frosting. Some locations even have dedicated photo spots with good lighting for the perfect dessert selfie.

Customer Service Excellence

The Hummingbird Bakery experience extends beyond just delicious treats – it’s about creating moments of joy through exceptional service. I’ve found their approach to customer care sets them apart in the competitive bakery industry.

Creating a Personalized Experience

Staff expertise forms the foundation of Hummingbird’s service model. Every team member undergoes comprehensive training about all products, enabling them to confidently answer questions about ingredients and preparation methods. What impresses me most is how they handle dietary concerns – they don’t just accommodate allergies, they make it feel effortless.

For customers with specific dietary needs, Hummingbird offers several thoughtful options:

• Gluten-free alternatives for many signature items
• Vegan-friendly versions of popular cupcakes
• Clear allergen information readily available
• Custom modifications when possible for specific sensitivities

The custom order process couldn’t be simpler. You can place special requests in-store or through their streamlined online system with at least 48 hours’ notice for most items. For wedding cakes and larger special occasion orders, they recommend a minimum two-week lead time to ensure perfection.

I appreciate how Hummingbird rewards loyalty. Their return customer program includes a digital punch card – buy ten cupcakes and get one free. Birthday club members receive a complimentary cherry chip mini cake during their birthday month, adding a personal touch to celebrations.

Gift giving becomes extra special with their packaging options. Standard boxes come at no additional cost, while premium gift wrapping with ribbon and personalized tags is available for a small fee. During holidays, they offer seasonal packaging that turns a simple buttercream frosted cupcake into a memorable present.

For corporate clients, Hummingbird provides bulk ordering with delivery service to office locations, making team celebrations hassle-free. Their branded gift cards come in customizable amounts, perfect for client appreciation or employee rewards.

The bakery’s commitment to service extends to their online presence, where they respond to reviews and feedback promptly. This attention to detail and genuine care for customer satisfaction explains why Hummingbird maintains such a loyal following despite the countless muffin and pastry options available elsewhere.

Looking Ahead

The future of Hummingbird Bakery excites me as I see tremendous growth potential through thoughtful expansion, innovative menu options, and stronger community ties. Let me share what’s cooking for the months ahead.

Expansion and Innovation

I’m thrilled to announce plans for two new Hummingbird Bakery locations opening in the coming year. After careful market research, I’ve identified neighborhoods eager for our signature American-style treats. Each new store maintains our iconic vintage aesthetic while incorporating unique elements reflecting local heritage.

Beyond physical growth, I’ve been working hard on refreshing our menu with seasonal specialties. This fall will feature a pumpkin cheesecake cupcake with cinnamon buttercream frosting that pairs wonderfully with our signature coffee blend. For those with dietary restrictions, I’ve developed gluten-free versions of our most popular recipes, including a divine snickerdoodle cookie that tastes identical to our traditional version.

The technological side hasn’t been overlooked either. I’ve redesigned our online ordering platform to streamline the pickup experience. Customers can now schedule orders up to two weeks in advance for special occasions, with customization options clearly displayed.

Sustainability stands at the forefront of our evolution. I’ve partnered with local farms to source ingredients, reducing our carbon footprint while supporting regional agriculture. All packaging is transitioning to compostable materials by year-end, and I’ve implemented a comprehensive waste reduction program across all bakeries. The new zucchini muffins showcase this farm-to-table approach, featuring produce from farms within 50 miles of our bakeries.

Community has always been the heart of Hummingbird Bakery, and I’m strengthening these bonds through various initiatives:

• Monthly baking classes for children, teaching basic skills while fostering creativity
• Partnership with local schools offering internship opportunities for culinary students
• Regular donations to food banks and community centers
• Quarterly fundraising events supporting neighborhood improvement projects

These programs allow me to give back to the communities that have embraced our bakeries over the years.

The events calendar for the upcoming year promises exciting opportunities to connect with customers. These special occasions include:

• Seasonal tasting events featuring limited-edition treats
• Holiday-themed decorating workshops perfect for families
• Baking competitions judged by local celebrities
• Cookbook signing events with renowned pastry chefs
• Anniversary celebrations with special promotions

I’m particularly excited about our summer festival series featuring outdoor markets where customers can enjoy cherry chip cake slices while browsing local crafts. These events create memorable experiences beyond just selling baked goods.

Behind the scenes, I’ve invested in staff development with enhanced training programs. Every team member receives specialty certification, ensuring consistent quality across locations. This professional growth opportunity has significantly reduced turnover while improving customer satisfaction.

Digital transformation continues with an enhanced loyalty program launching next quarter. Customers earn points not just through purchases but also by participating in sustainability initiatives like bringing reusable containers. These points can be redeemed for exclusive menu items not available for general purchase.

Social media engagement remains a priority with daily behind-the-scenes content showcasing our baking process. The transparency showing our fresh buttercream recipe preparation has resonated strongly with followers, building trust in our commitment to quality.

Through these initiatives, I aim to preserve what makes Hummingbird Bakery special while evolving to meet changing customer expectations. The foundation remains excellent baked goods made with love, even as we embrace new opportunities for growth.