Pecan Upside Down Cake: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Bake

Name: Pecan Upside Down Cake: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pecans; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk

July 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: pecan upside down cake! This cake is a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors, with a caramelized pecan topping that has me swooning every time. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to make my mouth water! It’s such a showstopper when you flip it over and reveal those gorgeous pecans glistening in all their glory. Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last crumb is gone. It’s perfect for gatherings, but honestly, I could devour it all by myself on a cozy afternoon with a cup of coffee!

pecan upside down cake - detail 1

Ingredients

1 cup pecans (chopped)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk

How to Prepare the Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this pecan upside down cake! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Now, grab a round cake pan, and let’s get that butter melted. Pour the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter directly into your cake pan and pop it in the oven for just a few minutes until it’s beautifully melted. Keep an eye on it; we don’t want it to brown too much!

Once the butter is melted, take the pan out (careful, it’s hot!) and sprinkle 1 cup of packed brown sugar evenly over the butter. Then, add your chopped pecans, spreading them out nicely. This is where the magic begins—those pecans will caramelize as the cake bakes, creating that irresistible topping!

In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of granulated sugar and the 3 large eggs until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix it up well. Now, in another bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture is essential for that perfect cake texture!

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your egg mixture, alternating with the 1/2 cup of milk. This helps to keep the batter smooth and lump-free. Once everything is combined, you should have a lovely, thick batter.

Now, pour the batter gently over the pecans in your cake pan, making sure to cover them completely. It’s okay if the batter is a bit thick; that’s just how we like it! Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—no gooey batter clinging to it!

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. This is important because it allows the caramelized pecans to set just a bit. Then, it’s time for the big reveal! Carefully invert the cake onto a plate. You’ll want to do this while it’s still warm to ensure the pecans come out perfectly. And there you have it—a stunning pecan upside down cake that’s ready to be devoured!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation—perfect for when you need a delicious dessert in a flash!
Rich, buttery flavors combined with the nutty crunch of pecans create a heavenly bite.
Gorgeous caramelized topping that makes a stunning presentation for any occasion.
Versatile enough to serve as a cozy afternoon treat or a show-stopping dessert for gatherings.
Every slice is moist and flavorful, making it hard to resist going back for seconds!
Can be served warm or at room temperature, with or without accompaniments—it’s delightful either way!
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it a convenient option!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this delicious pecan upside down cake, let me share some tried-and-true tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

Butter Temperature Matters: Make sure your butter is melted but not browned when you mix it with the brown sugar. If it browns too much, it can affect the flavor of the caramel—yummy but not quite what we want here!
Chop Those Pecans: For an even distribution of pecans, chop them into small pieces. This way, every slice gets that delightful crunch and nutty flavor!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake, and we want it to be light and fluffy!
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! If it has wet batter, give it a bit more time in the oven.
Inverting the Cake: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before inverting it onto your serving plate. This allows the caramel to set slightly, helping to prevent any pecan mishaps!
Serving Suggestion: For an extra special touch, serve your cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, it takes this cake to the next level!
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Just reheat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm again!

With these tips up your sleeve, you’re sure to impress everyone with your pecan upside down cake! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are just estimates! But here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect for one slice of this scrumptious pecan upside down cake:

Calories: Approximately 320
Fat: About 15g
Saturated Fat: Roughly 8g
Protein: Around 4g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g
Sugar: About 22g
Fiber: Roughly 1g
Cholesterol: Approximately 70mg
Sodium: About 180mg

Keep in mind, these values are a tasty reminder of the indulgence that comes with every slice! Enjoy responsibly, and savor every bite of your delicious creation!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep that delicious pecan upside down cake fresh and ready for your next sweet craving! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, I know!), it’s best to store them properly to maintain that delightful flavor and texture.

To store your cake, simply place it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it moist and delicious for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it for a little longer, you can refrigerate it, but make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. Just like a cozy blanket for your cake!

If you decide to freeze your pecan upside down cake, go ahead and slice it first. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily grab a slice whenever that sweet tooth strikes! It should stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. If you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes back to life! The pecans will retain their crunch, and the caramel will still be gooey and delicious.

So, whether you’re storing it for later or reheating it for a warm treat, these tips will help you savor every bite of your amazing pecan upside down cake. Enjoy!

FAQ Section

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and oh-so-delicious, you can swap them for walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be a fantastic cake!

What can I serve with my pecan upside down cake?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat. Trust me, it’s a match made in dessert heaven!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the pecan upside down cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, you can warm it up slightly in the microwave or enjoy it at room temperature.

Why did my cake stick to the pan?
Oh no! That can happen sometimes. To prevent sticking, make sure to melt the butter evenly and coat the entire bottom of the pan with it before adding the brown sugar and pecans. If you’re still worried, you can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for extra protection!

How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to keep an eye on it around the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready! If there’s wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your pecan upside down cake, let’s talk about the delicious companions that can take it to the next level! Serving this cake warm is a must, as it brings out all those lovely flavors and makes the pecans even more irresistible.

One of my absolute favorite pairings is a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey caramel and crunchy pecans. It’s like a match made in dessert paradise! You can even drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for that extra indulgence.

If ice cream isn’t your thing, don’t worry! A dollop of freshly whipped cream works wonders as well. It adds a lightness to the cake, making each bite feel heavenly and refreshing. You can whip it up with a hint of vanilla or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy twist.

For those who love a bit of fruit, serving the cake alongside fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, adds a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly. Plus, the pop of color makes your dessert plate look even more inviting!

Lastly, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, why not pair it with a cup of rich coffee or a warm spiced chai tea? The warm spices in the tea or the deep flavor of the coffee can really enhance the nutty notes of the pecans and the caramel. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a meal!

So go ahead, get creative with your serving suggestions, and enjoy every delightful bite of your pecan upside down cake! Trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.