Maple Pecan Bundt Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze

Maple Pecan Bundt Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze is a rich, moist cake made with real maple syrup, toasted pecans, and a creamy glaze. Perfect for fall baking, Thanksgiving desserts, or special occasions, this easy bundt cake recipe features warm flavors and a soft, buttery texture. Topped with a maple cream cheese glaze and crunchy pecans, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s simple to prepare and ideal for make-ahead holiday menus or weekend gatherings.

This moist and flavorful bundt cake is packed with toasted pecans and rich maple syrup, then topped with a silky maple cream cheese glaze. It’s the perfect centerpiece for fall gatherings, holiday tables, or cozy weekends at home.

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Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) white sugar (caster sugar in the UK)
• 1 cup (220 g) golden sugar (light brown sugar)
• ⅔ cup (215 g) maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Toasted Pecans

• 2 cups (218 g) chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons golden sugar

For the Maple Cream Cheese Glaze

• ½ cup (115 g) cream cheese, room temperature
• ¼ cup (57 g) butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (120 g) icing sugar
• ¼ cup (80 g) maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Chop the pecans into a mix of smaller and larger pieces, reserving a few whole pieces for decoration.
3. In a bowl, mix chopped pecans, melted butter, and golden sugar until well coated.
4. Spread evenly on the tray and toast in the oven for about 7 minutes. Remove and set aside. Leave the oven on.

Make the Cake

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and golden sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the batter in three additions, alternating with the milk (flour–milk–flour–milk–flour), mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the toasted chopped pecans (reserve whole ones for topping).
7. Pour the batter into a well-greased bundt pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a cooling rack. Cool completely before glazing.

Make the Maple Cream Cheese Glaze

1. In a mixer, combine cream cheese, butter, icing sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla.
2. Beat until smooth and slightly pourable.
3. Drizzle over the cooled cake and top with reserved toasted pecans.

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Tips

• Grease your bundt pan thoroughly, including all grooves, to prevent sticking.
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the frosting.
• Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and crunch—don’t skip this step.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut-Free: Omit pecans entirely or replace with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
• Spiced Cake: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest to the batter for a subtle citrus note.
• Lighter Glaze: Use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a tangier glaze.

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FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I freeze this bundt cake?
Absolutely. Freeze the unglazed cake wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat it?
Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds or warm the whole cake in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a cup of hot coffee or chai for a cozy fall pairing.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.
• Slice and pack in lunchboxes or serve at brunch gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is soft, buttery, and packed with the rich flavor of maple syrup and toasted pecans. The maple cream cheese glaze adds just the right touch of tang and sweetness. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and a guaranteed hit at any table.