Maple Nut Cake

2 1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup milk
1 cup maple syrup, divided
2 eggs
1/2 cup chopped nuts

Sift dry ingredients into bowl; add shortening, milk and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Beat 2 minutes.

Add remaining maple syrup and the eggs, beating 2 more minutes.

Blend in the nuts. Pour into greased pan (9x13x2).

Bake 350 degrees F for 35-40 minutes.

When done, grate maple sugar over top and set under broiler for a minute or two or frost with maple syrup frosting.

MAPLE FROSTING:
1/4 cup softened butter
2 cups sifted powdered sugar
maple syrup

Cream butter, and gradually add powdered sugar. Stir in enough maple syrup until of spreading consistency

MAPLE SUGAR:
Boil a good grade of maple syrup until it forms a soft ball, or 240 degrees F, whip until almost cool, and pour in molds. This is then a regular form of maple sugar.

Source: Michigan Maple Syrup Association