3 sticks butter
5 eggs
3 c. sifted plain flour
1 c. milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 (16 oz.) box plus 1 c. light brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. maple flavoring
1 c. nuts, chopped (optional)

Cream butter, gradually add sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Sift dry ingredients together and add alternately with milk. Add flavorings and nuts. Bake in a well greased and floured tube pan at 325 degrees for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until done. Remove from pan immediately.

TOPPING:

1 stick butter
1 sm. can evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. light brown sugar
1 c. pecans, chopped

Combine all ingredients except the nuts and boil for 5 minutes, then add nuts and beat until cooled.