This Maple Pecan Honey Bun Cake is like a warm hug on a chilly day, combining the rich flavors of maple and pecan with a honey bun twist. It's the perfect treat for cozy gatherings or a sweet indulgence whenever you need it.
The heart of this cake is its harmonious blend of flavors. The all-purpose flour gives structure to the cake, while the combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar adds sweetness and a hint of molasses-like depth. Baking powder ensures the cake rises beautifully, and a touch of salt enhances all the flavors.
The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg bring a cozy aroma that pairs perfectly with the rich maple syrup. Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, which balances the sweetness. The unsalted butter, melted, gives the cake a tender crumb, while eggs provide richness and bind everything together. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavor profile.
The star of the show, pecans, adds a delightful crunch. And finally, a simple glaze of powdered sugar and maple syrup adds a sweet finish.
This cake is delightful when served warm, allowing the glaze to slightly melt into each slice. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert, or enjoy a slice with a warm cup of chai tea to enhance the cozy spices.
Start by getting your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's nice and hot when your cake is ready to bake. While it warms up, take a moment to grease a 9x13 inch baking dish; this will help the cake come out effortlessly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients: flour, both sugars, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give them a good stir to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: buttermilk, melted butter, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want everything just blended.
Fold the chopped pecans into the batter gently, ensuring they're evenly dispersed throughout.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, mix together the glaze by combining powdered sugar with maple syrup until smooth.
Once your cake is baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over it. This short cooling period helps the glaze set nicely without melting into the cake.
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