1. To make the cake, heat teh oven to 180c/gas4. Line a 2lb loaf tin with greaseproof paper. Put all the cake uingredients in a large bowl & mix well.
2. Pour into the tin, place on a baking tray & bake in the centre of the oven for about 35-40 minutes, unti the centre is firm & springy to the tounch& a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Leave to go cold in the tin.
3. To make the icing, beat together the cream cheese & maple syrup until light & well blended. Remove the cake from the tin. Spread the icing over the top of the cake & decorate with the reserved pecans.