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Decadent Maple Syrup and Walnut Cake Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Decadent Maple Syrup and Walnut Cake offers a moist, rich flavor combination of dark maple syrup sweetness and toasted walnuts. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this easy-to-make cake features warm undertones of cinnamon and a tender crumb enhanced by whole milk or buttermilk. It’s an inviting treat that combines traditional baking with wholesome ingredients.


Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup maple syrup (preferably dark maple syrup)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or buttermilk for extra richness)

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Cream butter and maple syrup: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and maple syrup until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air and ensuring a tender cake texture.
  3. Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain emulsification. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
  4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a tough cake.
  6. Add walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts carefully, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing the batter.
  7. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain its structure and texture.
  9. Serve: Once cooled, sprinkle additional chopped walnuts on top for decoration or drizzle with a little extra maple syrup to add an extra touch of sweetness. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra richness, use buttermilk instead of whole milk.
  • Dark maple syrup provides a deeper flavor, but you can use lighter versions if preferred.
  • Be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
  • Walnuts can be toasted beforehand to enhance their flavor.
  • This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a dollop of whipped cream.