This Maple Pound Cake is perfectly moist with just the right balance of sweetness, and the maple glaze on top takes it to the next level. The combination of maple syrup in the cake and glaze makes each bite melt in your mouth.
It’s an easy-to-make treat, ideal for a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea or coffee. The subtle flavors of maple shine through in both the cake and the glaze, making it a perfect dessert for any season but especially fall. Whether served for a special occasion or as an everyday treat, this cake will surely satisfy your sweet tooth!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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4 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 cup pure maple syrup
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1 tbsp maple extract (optional)
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For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each one is incorporated before adding the next.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and maple syrup.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and heavy cream until smooth.
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Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pound cake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 80 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 8-10 servings
The Origins of Maple Syrup in Baking
Maple syrup is a beloved ingredient that brings warmth and sweetness to many dishes, especially during the fall and winter months. It’s produced by tapping maple trees for their sap, which is then boiled down into syrup. The rich, caramel-like flavor and deep amber color make it an excellent addition to baked goods. Maple syrup is more than just a topping for pancakes—it can be used in a variety of ways, from marinades to desserts, and even in savory dishes.
In the case of Maple Pound Cake, maple syrup becomes the star ingredient, infusing the cake with a subtle sweetness and a unique flavor profile. The maple glaze that tops the cake not only adds sweetness but also gives the dessert a glossy, eye-catching finish. This combination makes it the perfect dessert for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or any occasion where a special, comforting treat is desired.
Why Maple Pound Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion
Maple Pound Cake is incredibly versatile and can be served on various occasions. Its comforting flavors and moist texture make it a hit at family gatherings, potlucks, or dinner parties. It also makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and loved ones during the holiday season. The cake can be enjoyed as an after-dinner dessert, a snack with coffee, or even as a breakfast treat, making it a go-to recipe for any time of day.
One of the great things about this recipe is its simplicity. It doesn’t require fancy equipment or advanced baking techniques, yet the result is a show-stopping cake that looks as impressive as it tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Maple Pound Cake is easy to make and yields a delightful dessert that everyone will love.
How to Customize Your Maple Pound Cake
While the recipe for Maple Pound Cake with Maple Glaze is already perfect as is, there are several ways to customize it to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you want a more intense maple flavor, you can increase the amount of maple syrup in the cake or glaze. Some people even like to add a teaspoon of maple extract to further enhance the maple essence.
If you’re looking to add texture or flavor contrast, consider incorporating chopped nuts into the cake batter. Walnuts or pecans pair beautifully with maple and would give the cake a bit of crunch. Additionally, you can mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warm spice, which complements the maple syrup perfectly.
For a more indulgent version of this cake, you could even drizzle some extra maple syrup on top before serving or serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat. The possibilities are endless, and the beauty of this recipe is that it’s easily adaptable to suit your taste.
Tips for Making the Perfect Maple Pound Cake
To ensure your Maple Pound Cake turns out perfectly, here are a few baking tips to keep in mind:
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start baking. This helps to create a smooth batter and ensures that the ingredients incorporate evenly, resulting in a soft, tender cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, airy texture.
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Bake Evenly: Every oven is different, so it’s essential to monitor the baking process. Check the cake a few minutes before the recommended time to ensure it’s not overbaked. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when the cake is done.
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Glaze While Warm: For the best results, drizzle the maple glaze over the cake while it is still slightly warm. This allows the glaze to soak into the cake a bit, enhancing the flavor and texture.
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Allow the Cake to Cool: Let the cake cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and ensures that the glaze doesn’t melt off the cake immediately.
Maple Pound Cake vs. Other Pound Cakes
Maple Pound Cake stands out among other traditional pound cakes because of its use of maple syrup as a primary flavor. Traditional pound cakes often rely on vanilla, butter, and sometimes citrus flavors, but maple syrup adds a deep, earthy sweetness that elevates the entire cake. The maple glaze on top also sets it apart from other pound cakes, giving it a glossy finish and a sweet maple coating that perfectly complements the richness of the cake.
Another key difference is the texture. While traditional pound cakes are dense and buttery, the addition of maple syrup in this recipe gives the cake a slightly lighter, more moist crumb. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the flavor of the cake, making it a balanced and harmonious dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
What makes Maple Pound Cake with Maple Glaze so irresistible is its balance of flavors and textures. The cake itself is light, moist, and tender, with the natural sweetness of the maple syrup shining through. The glaze, made with pure maple syrup and powdered sugar, adds a silky smooth finish that complements the cake without overpowering it.
Each bite is a perfect combination of buttery richness, subtle maple flavor, and a touch of sweetness from the glaze. The cake is simple enough to be enjoyed on a casual day yet elegant enough to serve at a special occasion or holiday gathering. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while the cake is baking is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Maple Pound Cake with Maple Glaze is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of maple syrup. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this cake is easy to make and yields a delicious result every time. The cake’s moist texture, coupled with the sweet maple glaze, creates a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Maple syrup adds a unique twist to the classic pound cake, making this recipe a delightful option for fall, holiday celebrations, or any time you’re in the mood for something sweet and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious Maple Pound Cake with Maple Glaze. It’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.