Maple Pecan Cake with Maple Buttercream Recipe

Maple Pecan Cake with Maple Buttercream Recipe is the ultimate autumn-inspired showstopper. This cake marries the complexity of real maple syrup with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans, all enveloped in a silky maple buttercream that’s not overly sweet.

The use of dark or amber maple syrup intensifies the flavor, while toasting the pecans delivers extra depth and aroma. Every bite brings warmth and comfort—perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a touch of classic, cozy elegance.

With step-by-step guidance, tested baking techniques, and essential pro tips, this recipe delivers results you’ll be proud to share.

Ingredients Checklist

Start with this carefully curated ingredient list to build layers of flavor, moisture, and texture. Each ingredient plays a key role, so quality matters.

For the Cake:

• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 cup (200g) light or dark brown sugar, packed

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (240ml) pure dark or amber maple syrup

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or full-fat plain yogurt, room temperature

• 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk, room temperature

• 1 3/4 cups (170g) pecan halves or pieces, toasted and chopped

For the Maple Buttercream:

• 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 4–5 cups (480–600g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup (dark/amber preferred)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• Pinch fine sea salt

• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, as needed

Garnish:

• Extra toasted pecan halves

• Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

• Drizzle of maple syrup (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the best results, follow these steps in sequence, taking time with each process to maximize flavor, texture, and appearance.

Begin by toasting the pecans: Spread on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, stirring once. Cool, then chop coarsely. This step is crucial for nutty flavor and crunch.

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans, line bottoms with parchment, and dust sides lightly with flour.

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

• In a large bowl (stand mixer preferred), cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, 3–4 minutes. Scrape bowl as needed.

• Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly and scraping down between additions.

• Add vanilla extract, then stream in the maple syrup with mixer running on low until fully incorporated.

• Beat in sour cream until smooth.

• With mixer on low, add flour mixture in three parts, alternating with milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

• Fold in 1 1/2 cups toasted, chopped pecans by hand for even distribution.

• Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops with an offset spatula.

• Bake 28–32 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

• Let cakes cool in pans 10 minutes, then run a thin knife around the edges and invert onto a wire rack. Remove parchment and cool completely.

For the Maple Buttercream:

• In a stand mixer, beat butter on medium-high until creamy and nearly white, 3–4 minutes.

• Add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low and scraping between additions.

• Add maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and 2 tablespoons cream or milk. Beat on medium-high until fluffy, 2–3 minutes. Adjust with more cream or sugar as needed for spreadable, smooth consistency.

• Optional: For extra maple depth, add 1/2 teaspoon maple extract.

Assembly:

• Level cooled cakes with a serrated knife if domed. Place one layer on a serving plate.

• Spread a generous layer of buttercream. Top with second cake, then frost top and sides.

• Decorate with swirls of buttercream, extra toasted pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of flaky salt for contrast.

• For a clean finish, chill the cake briefly to set buttercream before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Results

Achieving a bakery-style cake at home is about attention to detail and understanding the why behind every step.

• Always toast pecans for flavor. Cool before adding to the batter to prevent greasiness.

• Use high-quality, real maple syrup (not pancake syrup). Dark or amber grades provide the richest flavor.

• Bring all ingredients to room temperature to ensure even mixing and best crumb.

• Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling, not scooping, to avoid a dense cake.

• Cream butter and sugars well for a light, aerated base, but do not overmix after flour is added.

• If your buttercream splits or is too thick, add a touch of cream and beat longer.

• For clean cake layers, chill them before assembling and use an offset spatula for even frosting.

• Can’t use pecans? Substitute toasted walnuts, or omit for a nut-free version.

Serving Suggestions

A few thoughtful serving ideas can turn this cake into a celebration centerpiece:

• Serve with hot coffee, spiced chai, or a maple old-fashioned for grown-up gatherings.

• Plate each slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream.

• Decorate the cake’s base with clusters of sugared cranberries or edible flowers for seasonal flair.

• For individual treats, bake batter as cupcakes (reduce baking time to 18–22 minutes).

Final Thoughts

Maple Pecan Cake with Maple Buttercream Recipe is a true celebration of comforting, classic flavors with a touch of sophistication. Using dark maple syrup and toasted pecans elevates the flavor, while the tender crumb and creamy buttercream offer an irresistible texture contrast. With all the little details—tips for toasting, measuring, assembling, and serving—this recipe guarantees a showstopping dessert, whether for fall festivities, birthdays, or simply treating yourself to something special. Enjoy sharing a cake that’s both timeless and unforgettable.