The Best Homemade Hummingbird Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making your own hummingbird food is easier than you might think, and you’ll feel great knowing it’s safe and homemade. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up with just sugar and water, no fancy ingredients needed. It’s a budget-friendly way to keep your hummingbird visitors happy and healthy. Plus, you can enjoy watching these tiny birds buzz around your yard, knowing you helped fuel their energy!
Recipe
Hummingbird nectar is a simple and essential recipe for anyone who loves attracting these beautiful birds to their garden. Making it at home guarantees it’s free from harmful additives and perfectly suited to their needs.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups water
Instructions:
- Boil the 4 cups of water in a pot.
- Add 1 cup of granulated sugar to the boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Fill your hummingbird feeder with the nectar, discarding any leftovers.
- Store extra nectar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes:
- Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye, as these can harm hummingbirds.
- Clean the feeder thoroughly every few days to prevent mold growth.
Equipment:
- Pot
- Measuring cup
- Spoon
- Hummingbird feeder
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Cuisine:
Wildlife-friendly
Serving:
Makes enough for one feeder, with extra stored in the fridge.
Nutrition
Hummingbirds require a high-energy diet to sustain their rapid metabolism. This homemade nectar provides essential carbohydrates without additives.
| Nutrition Facts | Per 1 cup (240ml) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade hummingbird cake with fresh fruit platters, as they add a revitalizing contrast to the cake’s rich flavor. Sweet dessert pairings, like vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel, also complement it perfectly. It’s such fun experimenting with different combinations to see what works best!
Fresh Fruit Platters
When you’re serving up a fresh fruit platter alongside homemade hummingbird food, it’s all about keeping things bright, colorful, and full of natural sweetness. I love arranging slices of juicy watermelon, ripe strawberries, and tangy pineapple on a large tray. Adding kiwi, orange wedges, and blueberries gives it a pop of color that’s as inviting as it is tasty. Don’t forget grapes and melon balls for variety! It’s a invigorating complement to the nectar, and it’s easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a hit with guests—both human and feathered—who appreciate fresh, wholesome flavors on a warm day.
Sweet Dessert Pairings
Alongside fresh fruit platters, pairing your homemade hummingbird food with sweet desserts can elevate the whole experience. I love serving it with light, airy treats like angel food cake or lemon bars—their subtle sweetness won’t overpower the delicate nectar. For something richer, try mini cheesecakes or chocolate-dipped strawberries; they add a decadent touch without stealing the show. My personal favorite? A simple shortbread cookie, lightly dusted with sugar—it’s buttery crunch complements the hummingbird food perfectly. Just remember, keep portions small so your guests can enjoy both the dessert and the star of the show: your homemade nectar.
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