Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and maple syrup.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Spread the frosting over the completely cooled cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store leftover Maple Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
For the best flavor and texture, store the frosted cake loosely covered at cool room temperature for up to 2 days. If storing longer than 2 days, refrigerate it, but let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the cream cheese frosting.
Can I substitute the brown sugar in this Maple Spice Cake recipe?
While brown sugar contributes essential moisture and molasses flavor to this recipe, you can substitute it 1:1 with granulated white sugar if necessary. Be aware that the final cake flavor will be less rich and slightly less dense without the brown sugar.
What is the best way to ensure my Maple Spice Cake bakes evenly at 350°F?
To ensure even baking for this 9-inch round cake, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the batter inside. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 30 minutes of the 45-minute bake time to prevent the center from sinking.
