Oh boy, do I have a treat for you! If there’s one recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, it’s this delightful Maple Pecan Coffee Cake. Few things in life are as good as the sweet aroma of this cake wafting through your kitchen, butter and maple syrup mingling together to create a heavenly scent that will have everyone rushing to the kitchen.
I remember the first time I baked this cake; it was a cozy autumn afternoon, and I had friends coming over for coffee. The moment they stepped into my home, they were greeted by that irresistible scent, and they didn’t leave until they had polished off the entire loaf! It was an instant favorite, so much so that I’ve made it for family gatherings, brunches, and even just because I needed a little pick-me-up. Trust me, this cake is a game changer when it comes to your morning coffee or afternoon tea!
What’s in Maple Pecan Coffee Cake?
Let’s break down the ingredients so you know exactly what to gather for this marvelous creation:
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake! It gives that delightful structure. I always use unbleached flour since it has a richer flavor.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens our cake and helps with that beautifully light texture.
Unsalted Butter: It’s crucial to use softened butter for that perfect creamy consistency when we cream it with sugar. Plus, you can control the salt levels better.
Buttermilk: Adds just the right amount of moisture and tang, making the cake tender and flavorful. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to milk.
Large Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and add richness.
Maple Syrup: This is where that beautiful maple flavor comes from! A must-have for warmth and sweetness. Do splurge on real maple syrup; it’s worth it!
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: A combination of leavening agents to make the cake rise beautifully.
Salt: Just a pinch is enough to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the cake; I prefer pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Chopped Pecans: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the maple syrup.
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar in the pecan mixture adds a lovely caramel note.
Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the maple and pecan so beautifully.
Maple Syrup (for drizzling): To finish off the cake, a drizzle of this syrup adds sweetness and makes it look oh-so-irresistible!
Is Maple Pecan Coffee Cake Good for You?
Now, I wouldn’t call this cake a health food, but like most treats, it’s all about balance!
Pecans: Packed with healthy fats and protein, they can make this cake a slightly healthier option when you need a sweet fix. Plus, they’re rich in antioxidants!
Buttermilk: This ingredient adds some beneficial probiotics to your slice. Yay for gut health!
The downside? Well, it does have sugar and fat, so moderation is key here. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, and perhaps save the rest for an afternoon treat. Definitely don’t indulge too much in one sitting—trust me, the cake will call your name for days!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup maple syrup (for drizzling)
**Servings:** This recipe makes about 8 servings.
How to Make Maple Pecan Coffee Cake?
Ready to get baking? Here’s how you whip up this delicious Maple Pecan Coffee Cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the buttermilk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are totally fine!
6. In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
7. Now, pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the pecan mixture over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the pecan mixture over the last layer of batter.
8. Use a knife to gently swirl the batter and the pecan mixture together for a marbled effect—this part is fun!
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
11. Once cooled, drizzle with maple syrup before serving. Enjoy your Maple Pecan Coffee Cake!
Beautiful Variations and Serving Suggestions
Want to switch things up a bit? You can add some chocolate chips for a delightful twist! Or replace pecans with walnuts if you’re not a fan. For an extra layer of festivity, consider adding fresh blueberries the next time you bake this cake!
Pair your coffee cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and let the conversations flow. This cake serves beautifully at brunches, and it also makes a lovely gift for friends or neighbors.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, and let’s bake some Maple Pecan Coffee Cake together! I’d love for you to share your baking adventures with me—let’s create some sweet memories!
