Looking for the perfect dessert to complement your cozy fall evenings or impress your guests at a special occasion? Look no further than this Maple Pecan Cake! Combining the rich flavor of maple syrup with the crunchy texture of toasted pecans, this cake is a showstopper that delivers both flavor and texture in every bite. Easy to make and perfect for fall celebrations, this cake will quickly become your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Maple Pecan Cake
This Maple Pecan Cake is perfect for any occasion. The cake is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of maple syrup and brown sugar. The added pecans not only bring a delightful crunch but also enhance the warm, nutty undertones of the cake. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy one-bowl recipe ensures that you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade cake with minimal effort.
Key Features of This Maple Pecan Cake
- Easy One-Bowl Recipe: No mixer required! This cake comes together quickly with just a mixing bowl and a whisk.
- Perfectly Moist and Tender: Thanks to a balanced combination of ingredients, this cake delivers a light, springy texture with every bite.
- Irresistible Maple and Pecan Flavor: The sweet maple syrup paired with the crunchy pecans creates a flavor combination that will make you crave more.
- Perfect for Fall: The maple and pecan flavors are perfect for the cooler months, making this cake a great addition to any fall gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Maple Pecan Cake
This simple yet flavorful cake requires only a handful of ingredients, including maple syrup and pecans, to create its delicious texture and taste. Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 9 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ⅔ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 ounces maple syrup (pure maple syrup works best)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1½ cups unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- ⅝ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Maple Pecan Cake
Making this Maple Pecan Cake is easy and fun! You’ll be able to enjoy a delicious homemade dessert in no time. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect cake:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Cake Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the whole milk, eggs, vegetable oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
- Mix everything together until smooth. The batter will be quite liquid, so don’t worry if it looks a bit runny.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. You should see a golden brown top, and the cake should feel firm to the touch.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Maple Brown Sugar Frosting
- While the cake is cooling, make the frosting. In a small saucepan, heat the maple syrup and brown sugar over low heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
- In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is fluffy.
- Add the cooled maple syrup-brown sugar mixture to the frosting and beat until combined. If the frosting seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting over the top and sides.
- For extra decoration, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the cake or pipe a decorative border around the edges.
- Allow the frosting to set before serving.
Maple Pecan Cake Success Tips
1. Use Pure Maple Syrup
For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup instead of imitation syrup. It provides a deeper, more natural maple flavor that will really shine in the cake and frosting.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure that your butter, eggs, and maple syrup are at room temperature before beginning. This will help the cake batter come together smoothly and give the frosting a silky texture.
3. Sift the Powdered Sugar
Sifting the powdered sugar for the frosting helps to eliminate any lumps and results in a smooth, creamy buttercream.
4. Adjust the Frosting Consistency
If your frosting is too thick after adding the maple syrup mixture, add a bit of milk to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach the right consistency.
How to Store Your Maple Pecan Cake
This Maple Pecan Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Before serving leftovers, allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Pecan Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it the next day. It also stores well in the fridge for several days, so feel free to make it in advance.
Can I freeze Maple Pecan Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make this cake without pecans?
Yes, if you or your guests are allergic to nuts or simply don’t enjoy them, you can make this cake without pecans. It will still be delicious, but you’ll miss that lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! While the maple brown sugar frosting is a perfect match for this cake, you can use any frosting you prefer. Cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla buttercream would also pair wonderfully with the maple and pecan flavors.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Maple Pecan Cake
This Maple Pecan Cake is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the flavors of fall. The combination of maple syrup and pecans creates a cake that’s both rich and flavorful, while the frosting adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re serving it at a fall gathering or just treating yourself to something sweet, this cake is sure to become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and indulge in a delicious, homemade dessert today!