Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting

Name: Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 4 large eggs; ½ cup vegetable oil (or olive oil); ½ cup maple syrup; 1 cup toasted pecans (for frosting)

Published: November 6, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting

This incredible Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that fluffy texture; always sift it for better results.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the batter and helps create a lovely crust on your cake.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These are your leavening agents; together they make your cake rise perfectly.
Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices give the cake its warm, cozy flavor profile reminiscent of fall.
Pumpkin Puree: Not only does it provide moisture but also adds natural sweetness and flavor.
Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness to the cake.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist; you can substitute with olive oil if you prefer.
Maple Syrup: Adds depth of flavor and pairs perfectly with the pecans in the frosting.
Pecans: Toasted for crunch in the frosting; they elevate this dessert to another level.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans (or one if you’re feeling daring) so your masterpiece doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and maple syrup until smooth. You’ll want to get all those flavors mingling like old friends at a reunion.

Step 4: Merge Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—don’t overdo it! We’re not making bread here.

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans (or one big one) and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While your cakes cool down (and you resist eating them straight from the pan), beat together softened butter and maple syrup in a bowl until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Fold in those toasted pecans like they’re VIP guests.

Finally! Assemble by placing one layer on a plate, spreading frosting generously on top before adding the second layer. Top off with more frosting and sprinkle extra pecans to make it look fancy.

Transfer to plates and serve up slices of joy that will have everyone begging for seconds!

You Must Know About Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting

This showstopping Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by roasting the pumpkin to deepen its flavor. While it cools, prepare your batter and make the frosting. Bake the cake layers until golden, then let them cool completely before frosting to prevent a melty disaster.

Flavor Your Way

Try substituting applesauce for part of the oil for a healthier twist. Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth. You can even throw in chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous—because who doesn’t love chocolate?

Storing & Reheating

Store your Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, slice a piece and pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to enjoy that delightful frosting.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting

This professional-quality Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

When I first baked this recipe for a family gathering, my cousin practically staged a taste test showdown—guess who won? It was such a hit that I had to promise I’d always bring it to family events!

FAQs

What is Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting?

Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting is a delightful dessert that features moist pumpkin cake layered with a rich and creamy frosting. The cake incorporates warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, enhancing its fall flavor profile. The maple pecan frosting adds a sweet, nutty finish that perfectly complements the pumpkin base. This cake is ideal for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a comforting treat to enjoy at home.

How do I store Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting?

To store Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its freshness for about 5 to 7 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake slices overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting ahead of time. In fact, baking the cake a day or two before serving can enhance its flavors as they meld together. Store the unfrosted cake layers at room temperature or in the fridge. Frost it just before serving to ensure the frosting stays fresh and doesn’t soften too much.

What occasions are perfect for serving Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting?

Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting is perfect for various occasions such as Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or family gatherings in the fall season. Its warm spice flavors resonate well during cooler months, making it a comforting choice for celebrations. Additionally, it makes an excellent dessert for birthdays or any event where you want to impress your guests with something deliciously seasonal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pumpkin Cake with Maple Pecan Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines rich pumpkin flavors with a sweet maple pecan touch. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for special occasions. Whether you serve it at holiday gatherings or enjoy it on a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s a wonderful way to celebrate fall!

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