Craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Maple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cake! Combining the warmth of cinnamon, the crunch of pecans, and the rich taste of maple glaze, this cake is sure to impress. Follow my simple, step-by-step guide to whip up this moist delight. You’ll want to share it, but you might just want to keep it all to yourself!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for the Cake
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For this cake, you need basic pantry staples. All-purpose flour gives the cake its structure. Baking powder helps it rise. Salt balances the sweetness. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and moisture. Unsalted butter makes it rich. Eggs bind everything together. Vanilla extract adds flavor, while milk keeps the cake moist. Ground cinnamon gives the cake a warm, spicy note.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Swirl
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
The cinnamon swirl is the star of the show. Brown sugar adds a deep sweetness. Ground cinnamon enhances the flavor further. Chopped pecans give a nice crunch and nutty taste.
Ingredients for Maple Glaze
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
The maple glaze is simple yet delicious. Powdered sugar provides sweetness. Maple syrup brings that iconic flavor. Milk helps make it smooth, while vanilla extract adds extra depth. Drizzling this glaze on top creates a shiny, sweet finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps the cake rise evenly. While the oven heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes serving easy.
Making the Batter
In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mix gives the cake its structure. In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1/2 cup of softened butter. Mix until it looks light and fluffy. Then, add 2 large eggs one at a time. Stir well after each egg. Next, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of milk. Finally, gradually add your dry mix to the wet mixture. Stir until they just combine.
Creating the Cinnamon Swirl and Assembling the Cake
For the cinnamon swirl, mix 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of chopped pecans in a small bowl. Now, pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture over this batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and spread it out. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together. This creates a nice marbled look.
Baking the Cake
Now, place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This step helps it set before glazing.
Preparing the Maple Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the maple glaze. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk. Adjust the milk until the glaze is smooth and easy to drizzle. You want it to be the right consistency for pouring over your cake.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To ensure your cake rises well, use fresh baking powder. Old baking powder may not work. Mix dry ingredients well before adding wet ones. This helps distribute the baking powder evenly. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to getting a nice rise.
Testing for doneness is simple. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. You want a lightly golden top and a springy feel.
Flavor Enhancements
You can customize the cinnamon flavor by adding more ground cinnamon. If you want a stronger taste, try adding up to 2 teaspoons. This will give your cake a warm, spicy note.
If you need alternatives for pecans, consider walnuts or almonds. Both give a nice crunch and flavor. You can also skip the nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
Presentation Suggestions
Garnishing the cake makes it look special. Drizzle extra maple glaze on top for shine. Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans for texture. Fresh fruit or whipped cream adds color and flavor.
When serving, cut even slices. Place them on plates and drizzle more glaze. This makes each piece look inviting. Enjoy the cake with coffee or tea for a cozy touch.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can make this cake gluten-free! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for blends that include xanthan gum. This helps the cake rise and stay fluffy. Measure the same amount as the original flour. Your cake will still be moist and flavorful.
Vegan Adaptation
Want a vegan version? Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit until it thickens. Use almond milk or soy milk in place of regular milk. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter. This keeps the cake rich and tasty.
Flavor Variations
Get creative with your cake! You can add chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Mix in half a cup of chips into the batter. This adds a nice chocolatey taste. You can also try fruit toppings. Fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries work great. Just sprinkle them on top before baking. This adds color and extra flavor to your cake!
Storage Info
Room Temperature Storage
To keep your Maple Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cake fresh at room temperature, store it in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and prevents the cake from drying out. You can keep it this way for up to two days. If you want to enjoy that soft texture, avoid leaving it out too long.
Refrigeration Tips
For longer storage, place the cake in the fridge. Wrap it well in plastic wrap or place it in a sealed container. This way, it can last up to a week. The cool air helps slow spoilage and keeps flavors intact. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save your cake for later, freezing is a great option! Cut the cake into slices and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. This method keeps the cake fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake ahead. Bake it in advance and let it cool. Wrap it well in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for one day. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the cake. Just make sure it is tightly wrapped. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving. This way, you can save time on busy days.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the cake?
To adjust the sweetness, you have a few options. To reduce sweetness, cut back on the sugar by a quarter cup. You can also use less brown sugar in the swirl. If you want a sweeter cake, add more maple syrup to the glaze. Taste it before adding more syrup. This way, you can find the perfect sweetness for your taste.
What can I substitute for pecans if needed?
If you have nut allergies or dislike pecans, use other nuts. Walnuts are a great swap for pecans. You can also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. If you want no crunch, skip the nuts altogether. The cake will still taste amazing without them.
How do I know if my cake is baked properly?
To check if your cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Look for a golden-brown top and a slight spring when touched. The edges should pull away from the pan a bit. If the toothpick shows batter, bake for a few more minutes.
In this post, we explored the key ingredients for a delicious cake, including the cinnamon swirl and maple glaze. I shared step-by-step instructions, baking tips, and ways to customize your cake. Remember, baking is fun, and you can change flavors or even go gluten-free or vegan. Storing your cake properly keeps it fresh. Try making this cake ahead of time or adjusting the sweetness to suit your taste. Enjoy your baking journey and delight in every bite of your creation!
