Description

This decadent Maple Layer Cake features moist layers infused with pure maple syrup and warm cinnamon. Topped with luscious maple cream cheese buttercream and drizzled with homemade maple caramel, it’s finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Perfect for any special occasion or maple lover’s delight.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup pure maple syrup
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/3 cup canola oil
3/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whole milk
flaky sea salt for garnish

Maple Caramel

1 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup light brown sugar, loosely packed
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Maple Cream Cheese Buttercream

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare Cake Pans: Preheat oven to 350℉. Butter and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside for later use.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk maple syrup, light brown sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add vanilla extract, melted butter, canola oil, sour cream, and whole milk, whisking again until fully incorporated.
Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a rubber spatula. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges turn golden. Cool the cakes in the pans for 20 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Maple Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine pure maple syrup, light brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Simmer for about 7 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture slightly reduces. Lower the heat, add butter, vanilla extract, and salt, cooking until butter melts. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Make Maple Cream Cheese Buttercream: Using a stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add maple syrup and beat for another minute. Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed, then add vanilla and salt. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and creamy.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer upside down on a serving plate or cake stand to create a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of the maple buttercream over the top. Repeat with the second layer and buttercream, then add the third layer, spreading buttercream on top and around the sides, creating a semi-naked cake effect using an offset spatula or bench scraper.
Add Maple Caramel and Garnish: Pour maple caramel over the top, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides. Sprinkle the cake with flaky sea salt to enhance flavor with a subtle crunch. Slice and serve with extra caramel on the side if desired.

Notes

Make sure cake layers have cooled completely before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
Using parchment paper helps remove cake layers easily and keeps edges neat.
Adjust the amount of maple caramel drizzle to your preference for sweetness and moisture.
The semi-naked frosting technique allows some cake layers to peek through for a rustic, elegant look.
Store leftovers refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: maple cake, layer cake, maple syrup dessert, cream cheese frosting, homemade caramel, autumn dessert