Midwestern Maple Pecan Cake

Ingredients

While the original Gur Cake from Irish cuisine is made with a mixture of cake crumbs, raisins, and golden syrup, this Midwestern adaptation focuses on the flavors of maple syrup and pecans. The original cake is typically dense and chewy, while the Midwestern version is lighter and more tender. Additionally, the Midwestern Maple Pecan Cake features a maple glaze, adding an extra layer of sweetness and shine. We alse have the original recipe for Gur Cake, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) maple syrup 1 cup (240ml) maple syrup
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 57g, 38g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the maple syrup to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
6. 6.
   Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. 7.
   Fold in the chopped pecans.
8. 8.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
9. 9.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. 10.
    Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. 11.
    Once the cake has cooled, prepare the maple glaze (see below) and drizzle it over the cake.
12. 12.
    Slice and serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pecans — Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. This will enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the cake.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra maple flavor, brush the cooled cake with a thin layer of maple syrup before adding the glaze.
• If you prefer a stronger nutty flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the batter.
• Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Serving advice

Serve each slice of Midwestern Maple Pecan Cake on a dessert plate, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Dust the plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Midwestern Maple Pecan Cake, drizzle some additional maple glaze over the top of the cake just before serving. Garnish with a few whole pecans and a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.