Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

This Pecan Upside Down Cake is a southern twist on classic comfort, loaded with buttery caramelized pecans that crown a tender, plush vanilla cake. Imagine a sticky, golden pecan topping melding into soft cake—every bite is rich, nutty, and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Pecan Upside Down Cake pulls double duty, lending sweetness, nuttiness, and softness that makes every bite unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component matters—the magic really is in the details!

• Pecans (coarsely chopped): They’re the star, offering crunch and rich, buttery flavor on top.
• Light corn syrup or honey: Brings shine and a sticky caramel-like finish to the pecan topping; honey adds subtle floral notes if you prefer.
• Brown sugar, firmly packed: Creates that classic caramel flavor and color—either light or dark brown sugar works beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: Makes the topping rich and melt-in-your-mouth, and also brings moisture to the cake.
• Ground cinnamon & pinch of salt: Cinnamon adds warmth, and that tiny bit of salt balances the sweetness.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: These give the cake lovely tang and ensure the crumb is ultra-tender.
• Neutral oil (like vegetable or grapeseed): Helps the cake stay moist, soft, and even textured.
• Milk: Adds just enough moisture for a smooth, pourable batter.
• Large eggs: Eggs lend structure and richness so the cake holds beautifully when inverted.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake—always spoon and level for best results!
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leaveners make the cake rise light and fluffy.
• Vanilla extract or paste: A must for warmth and that inviting, bakery aroma.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and adds to the soft, classic crumb.

Variations

The beauty of Pecan Upside Down Cake is how effortlessly you can make it your own. Whether you have dietary preferences or want to play with new flavors, here are a few tasty ways to switch things up!

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free blend to suit dietary needs.
• Maple Pecan Upside Down Cake: Replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a warm, woodsy sweetness that pairs perfectly with pecans.
• Nut Medley Twist: Use a combination of pecans, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for a more complex flavor and extra crunch.
• Spiced Cake Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cake batter for a cozy, autumnal spin.

How to Make Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Gooey Pecan Topping

Start by gently melting butter, brown sugar, corn syrup (or honey), cinnamon, salt, and pecans together in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until the mixture is glossy and smooth—don’t overcook, just melt and dissolve the sugar. Pour into a greased 9-inch round cake pan, spreading the pecans out into an even layer so every slice is loaded with caramel goodness.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla on high speed for about a minute until lightly frothy. Add the oil and mix, then stir in the sour cream and milk—this trio ensures your cake will be tender and moist with that signature soft crumb.

Step 3: Sift and Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt right into your wet mixture. Mix gently just until the batter is smooth and lump-free, being careful not to overmix—this is the secret to a delicate cake that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cake batter over the pecan layer and gently spread it into an even layer. Bake in the center of the oven at 350°F for 35–38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma alone is going to make your kitchen the coziest spot in the house!

Step 5: Flip and Serve

Once baked, run a butter knife along the cake’s edges, then let it cool for 5–8 minutes to settle. Carefully invert the cake onto a plate—don’t forget the pan will be hot! Scoop any extra pecans or sauce left behind onto the top, and serve warm for maximum gooeyness. Enjoy as is, or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for show-stopping decadence.

How to Serve Pecan Upside Down Cake

Garnishes

A classic scoop of vanilla ice cream works wonders dripping over a warm slice of Pecan Upside Down Cake, but you can also dust lightly with powdered sugar or a few extra toasted pecans for a touch of elegance and crunch. A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup never hurts, either!

Side Dishes

Pecan Upside Down Cake is truly the main event, but if you’d like, serve it with a fresh fruit salad or a helping of lightly whipped cream. For brunch, a strong coffee or spiced chai is pretty much its soulmate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, cut the cake into elegant wedges and serve on individual plates with an artful smear of caramel sauce. For a rustic vibe, bring the entire cake to the table on a wooden board, topped with twisting cinnamon sticks and a scattering of extra pecans—let everyone help themselves!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pecan Upside Down Cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last a little longer, refrigerate it—just wrap well to lock in that pillow-soft crumb and prevent the topping from drying out.

Freezing

Let the cake cool completely, then double-wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator and gently warm in the oven to restore texture and that delicious gooeyness!

Reheating

For that just-baked feel, reheat a slice in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm the whole cake (covered with foil) in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. The topping will soften up, and every bite will be as luscious as when it was fresh.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving nostalgia with a modern twist, give this Pecan Upside Down Cake a try—it’s guaranteed to wow everyone lucky enough to grab a slice. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to dessert for holidays, birthdays, and any “just because” occasion. Enjoy every gooey, crunchy, buttery bite!

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