Maple Toffee Cake

By Addie

“This cake tasted like Grandma had been in the kitchen for hours. Only she knew how simple it was.”

Ingredients

• 1 (2-layer) package yellow cake mix
• 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon maple syrup, divided
• 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1 egg white
• 2 1/2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 cup toffee chips

Preparation

Step 1

For cake, preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 13 × 9-inch baking pan.


Prepare cake mix using package directions, substituting 1/4 cup maple syrup for 1/4 cup of the water.


Bake cake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, about 35 to 40 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack. Let stand to cool.
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Grandma's Secret Trick:

To give this cake different flavors, Grandma often substituted a variety of nuts for the toffee chips. Grandpa's favorite was Southern black walnuts, which have a bold, deep flavor that's delicious with the maple flavor of this cake. Sometimes Grandma used English walnuts or chopped, toasted hazelnuts.


For frosting, combine brown sugar, egg white and water in the top of a double boiler. Place over high heat.


Cook the mixture, stirring continually until well blended. Beat with an electric mixer set at high speed until soft peaks form.


Remove from heat. Add remaining maple syrup. Beat until mixture is a spreadable consistency. Spread frosting over cooled cake. Sprinkle with toffee chips. Cut cake into squares to serve.