Maple Vanilla Pecan Cake

Name: Maple Vanilla Pecan Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I have a special place in my heart for cakes that have a warm, inviting aroma, and this Maple Vanilla Pecan Cake truly delivers. The combination of maple syrup and vanilla creates a heavenly scent while it bakes, instantly making my kitchen feel like a cozy haven. The pecans add a delightful crunch that perfectly balances the cake’s moistness. This recipe has become a family favorite, and I love serving it at gatherings or enjoying a slice with my morning coffee. Trust me, this cake is a delightful treat you won't want to miss!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:50:28.475Z

When I first decided to create this Maple Vanilla Pecan Cake, I was inspired by a particularly cold day when all I wanted was something comforting and sweet. The rich, nutty flavor of pecans combined with the warmth of maple syrup brought back memories of family gatherings and holidays. This cake isn’t just about flavor; the method of creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy allows for a light texture that makes each bite heavenly.

One specific tip I learned is to toast the pecans slightly before adding them to the batter. This small step enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of complexity to the cake. It’s truly a game-changer! I recommend enjoying it slightly warm, as the flavors meld beautifully when served that way.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich maple flavor that brings warmth to your kitchen
Crunchy pecans that add texture to every bite
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to celebratory

The Role of Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is a star ingredient in this cake, providing not only sweetness but also a depth of flavor that granulated sugar alone cannot achieve. When baked, the syrup caramelizes, adding a subtle complexity that enriches the overall profile of the cake. I recommend using pure maple syrup over imitation varieties for the best taste, as the natural flavors enhance the warmth and comfort associated with a homemade cake.

In addition to contributing to the flavor, maple syrup keeps the cake moist. This is particularly beneficial if you plan on making the cake a day in advance, as it helps prevent drying out. Just store it properly at room temperature, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, to keep that delightful texture intact until serving.

Perfecting Your Frosting

The frosting complements the cake beautifully, adding a creamy texture that contrasts with the crunchy pecans. To achieve a smooth frosting consistency, be sure your butter is fully softened—this means it should give easily when pressed but not be melted. If your frosting is too thick, you can add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. This is a crucial step to ensure it spreads evenly over the cake without tearing it.

For an extra touch, consider incorporating some finely chopped toasted pecans directly into your frosting. This adds another layer of flavor and a pleasing texture that mirrors the cake itself. When spreading the frosting, use an offset spatula for the best results, creating a smooth surface and allowing for decoration if desired.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup pecans, chopped and toasted

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup to the mixture. Beat until well combined.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, prepare the frosting and frost the cake as desired.

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature, and use high-quality maple syrup.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Maple Vanilla Pecan Cake can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy occasions. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure the wrapped cake is in an airtight container or freezer bag, where it will last up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

If you’re preparing the cake for a special event, you can also bake the layers in advance and frost them the day of. Just keep the layers wrapped and stored until you're ready to frost. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to develop even more as they rest. I always find that cake tastes even better the next day!

Variations to Try

While this cake is delicious as is, there are many ways to customize it. Swap the pecans for walnuts or macadamia nuts if you prefer a different crunch. Alternatively, add a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-maple twist. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warmth of flavors, especially during holiday seasons.

For a lighter cake version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour. This not only reduces the gluten content, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends, but it also adds a lovely nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the maple flavor. Just monitor the baking time as it might change slightly with this substitution.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use mist other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives for this recipe.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance, just frost it before serving.