Pecan Upside Down Cake

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Imagine a buttery, caramel-soaked cake topped with glossy pecans that melt in your mouth. That’s the magic of this Pecan Upside Down Cake. With its rich, moist crumb and a luscious pecan topping, this dessert turns a simple baking session into a sweet celebration. It delivers the decadence of pecan pie with the comfort of a warm, fluffy cake.

Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy weekend bake, this cake brings warmth and flavor to the table. Whether you serve it fresh out of the oven or chilled the next day, the caramel-pecan layer stays irresistibly sticky and satisfying. It’s one of those treats that makes your kitchen smell like a bakery and your guests ask for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Pecan Upside Down Cake

• Caramel Crunch Meets Soft Crumb: The top bakes into a gooey caramel pecan layer, while the cake underneath stays tender and light.
• Easy Yet Impressive: It looks fancy but requires no more effort than your usual cake recipe.
• Versatile for Occasions: Serve it warm for holidays, or cold for afternoon tea—it fits any vibe.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze slices to enjoy whenever a sweet craving hits.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create a smooth and stress-free baking experience, have these essentials on hand:

• 9-Inch Round Cake Pan: This size ensures the perfect ratio between the topping and cake. A non-stick pan helps with a clean release.
• Mixing Bowls (2-3): You’ll need separate bowls for the pecan layer and cake batter.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming the butter and sugar to the right fluffy consistency.
• Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients and scraping every last bit from the bowl.
• Cooling Rack: Helps cool the cake evenly once flipped.

Each of these tools contributes to achieving the cake’s signature texture—light inside, sticky and golden on top.

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Ingredients for the Pecan Upside Down Cake

• Pecans: The star of the show, bringing rich nuttiness and beautiful texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel flavor to the pecan topping.
• Butter: Essential for both the topping and the moist cake base.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness in the batter.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall warmth and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cake, giving it body.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Ensure a fluffy, light crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang.

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How To Make the Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Layer

In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar until smooth and bubbling. Pour into the bottom of your greased cake pan and arrange pecans on top. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 4: Mix the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter over the pecan mixture in the pan, smoothing the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Flip and Serve

Let the cake cool for 5-10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

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Serving and Storing Pecan Upside Down Cake

This cake is delicious straight from the oven when the caramel topping is gooey and warm. For serving, slice with a sharp knife and use a flat spatula to lift pieces without disturbing the topping. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm cream for an indulgent twist.

To store, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to refresh that fresh-baked warmth. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different nut besides pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts work well, though the flavor will be slightly more bitter than pecans.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature and flip it just before serving.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?

Toasting is optional but enhances their flavor. If you prefer a deeper nutty taste, toast them for 5 minutes at 350°F before adding them to the pan.

What’s the best way to flip the cake?

Let the cake rest 5-10 minutes after baking, then place a plate over the pan and flip in one swift motion. Use oven mitts to protect your hands.

Can I use a boxed cake mix for the base?

You can, especially a yellow or butter-flavored mix. Just be sure to prepare the pecan topping as directed and pour the mix over it.

How do I keep the topping from sticking?

Use a non-stick pan and line the bottom with parchment if needed. Letting it cool just slightly before flipping helps too.

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Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Pecan Upside Down Cake, you’ll enjoy these rich and comforting cake recipes too:

• Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for a nutty, melt-in-your-mouth loaf.
• Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake if you’re craving a cinnamon-swirled dream.
• Amish Applesauce Cake that brings a wholesome, spiced touch.
• Brownie Refrigerator Cake for a no-bake chocolatey treat.
• Moist and Tangy Key Lime Pound Cake to brighten up your dessert table.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add cinnamon or a splash of bourbon? Did you go full classic or put your own twist on it?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Find more cozy and creative cake ideas on my Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart.

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