Introduction

This Maple Layer Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich sweetness of maple syrup with a tender, buttery cake. Perfect for any occasion, its simple ingredients create a comforting and flavorful dessert.

Decadent Maple Layer Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
½ cup pure maple syrup

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the maple syrup.
Step 4: Gradually add the flour, mixing gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
Step 6: Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Once cooled, frost and stack the cake layers using your favorite maple frosting.

Tips & Variations

For extra maple flavor, substitute half of the sugar with maple sugar if available.
Use cream cheese frosting with a touch of maple syrup for a tangy variation.
Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.

Storage

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor. The cake layers can also be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pancake syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

While pancake syrup can be used, pure maple syrup provides a richer, more authentic flavor that really enhances the cake.

How do I make maple frosting?

A simple maple frosting can be made by mixing powdered sugar with softened butter and maple syrup until smooth and spreadable. Adjust the maple syrup amount to taste.

Decadent Maple Layer Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 97 reviews

A classic Maple Layer Cake featuring moist, buttery cake layers sweetened and flavored with rich maple syrup, layered and frosted with a creamy maple frosting. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dessert treat.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Layers

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
½ cup pure maple syrup
1 cup buttermilk
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Maple Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup pure maple syrup
2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and maple syrup. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Maple Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency with heavy cream or milk, adding a tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake: Level the cooled cake layers if necessary. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of maple frosting over the top. Repeat with the second layer. Place the final layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake evenly with the remaining frosting. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Notes

Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
For extra moisture, brush cake layers with a little maple syrup before frosting.
The frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Keywords: maple cake, layered cake, maple syrup cake, dessert, homemade cake, maple frosting