Pecan Upside Down Cake

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This Pecan Upside Down Cake is like the best of both worlds: the warm, sticky goodness of pecan pie meets the soft, buttery crumb of classic yellow cake. It flips the script—literally—by baking pecans in a rich caramel layer at the bottom, then inverting the cake to reveal a glistening, nutty topping that looks just as impressive as it tastes.

Every bite is a perfect mix of crunchy pecans drenched in buttery brown sugar and a cake that is soft, fluffy, and full of comforting vanilla flavor. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simply with a cup of coffee, it makes any day feel like a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Upside Down Cake

This cake is a showstopper without needing a fancy frosting or elaborate decoration. It bakes up in one pan, flips out beautifully, and delivers that irresistible mix of sticky-sweet and soft. Plus, the pecans caramelize to a golden crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender cake beneath. It’s cozy enough for fall but honestly perfect year-round.

What Kind of Pan Should I Use?

A 9-inch round cake pan or an 8×8 square pan both work well for this cake. The key is using one that’s at least 2 inches deep so it can hold all the gooey pecan topping without overflowing. A non-stick pan makes the flip easier, but if you line the bottom with parchment, even a standard pan will do just fine.

Ingredients for the Pecan Upside Down Cake

This dessert doesn’t require fancy ingredients, but the ones it does use are essential for its flavor and texture. Each one plays its role in creating that perfect upside-down moment.

• Pecans: These are the star of the show, giving the topping its signature crunch and nutty warmth.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted to create a rich base for the caramel pecan layer and also used in the cake for moistness.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and sweetness to the topping, caramelizing beautifully with the butter.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake batter while keeping the crumb light.
• Eggs: They bind the cake together and help it rise just right.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash brings in warm, aromatic flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and softness.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise evenly.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Milk: Brings moisture and helps mix the batter into a smooth consistency.

How To Make the Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In your chosen pan, melt the unsalted butter, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. Distribute the pecans across the surface so they’re nicely spread out.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened butter until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with milk, mixing just until combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Carefully spoon the batter over the pecan mixture in the pan, spreading it gently so it doesn’t disturb the pecans. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Flip and Cool

Let the cake rest for about 5 minutes once out of the oven, then run a knife around the edges. Place a plate on top and invert the cake. Let it sit for another couple of minutes before lifting the pan. Let cool slightly before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

A few common pitfalls can turn this beauty into a mess, but they’re easy to avoid. First, make sure not to overmix the batter. Doing so can lead to a dense and tough texture. When melting the butter and brown sugar for the topping, don’t let it bubble too long or burn; it should just melt and blend. Also, be gentle when spreading the cake batter over the pecans so they stay in place for that picture-perfect topping.

How to Serve and Store This Pecan Upside Down Cake

This cake is best served warm, when the caramel pecan layer is still gooey and glossy. It pairs like a dream with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the magic.

This recipe comfortably feeds 8 people, making it ideal for small gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy brunch spread.

What to Serve With Pecan Upside Down Cake?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cool, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream is the ultimate contrast to the warm, sticky pecan topping.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries or raspberries bring a tart freshness that cuts through the richness of the cake.

Bourbon Whipped Cream

Add a splash of bourbon to whipped cream for a grown-up twist that complements the caramel notes.

Coffee or Espresso

A bold cup of coffee balances out the sweetness perfectly and enhances the nutty flavors.

Spiced Chai Tea

The spices in chai play well with the warm, buttery tones of the pecan layer.

Maple Glazed Bacon

Sweet and salty with a touch of crisp? It might sound odd, but it’s a flavor powerhouse paired with this dessert.

Caramel Drizzle

If you’re feeling indulgent, a light drizzle of caramel over each slice can take things to the next level.

Roasted Pears

Soft, sweet roasted pears bring elegance and another layer of autumn flavor to the table.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Pecan Upside Down Cake, there are other delicious cakes waiting for you to discover:

• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for those who can’t resist a chocolate-fruit combo.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole for a breakfast that blurs the line with dessert.
• Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars if you want your sweets with a hint of cinnamon and crunch.
• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for bite-sized pecan joy.
• Cinnamon Donut Bread for a cake-like loaf with sugary spice.

Save This Recipe 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 a splash of bourbon to the caramel layer? Did you sneak in some cinnamon? I love hearing your creative spins.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Pecan Upside Down Cake is everything you want in a dessert: rich, warm, and impossibly easy to make. Whether you’re whipping it up for a special dinner or just because it’s a Tuesday and you deserve it, this cake never disappoints. It’s classic Southern comfort with a caramel twist, and it just might become your new favorite.

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