Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

Introduction

Pecan Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert featuring a rich, buttery pecan topping caramelized to perfection. This classic cake combines a moist, tender crumb with the warm crunch of toasted pecans, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
• 1 cup Brown sugar
• 1 cup Pecans, chopped
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 3 Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a round cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter with the brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until the mixture bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans evenly.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
5. Step 5: Pour the pecan and brown sugar mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Carefully spoon the cake batter over the pecan layer and smooth the surface.
6. Step 6: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate to reveal the glossy pecan top.

Tips & Variations

• Use toasted pecans for an extra nutty flavor and crunch in the topping.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warm spice notes.
• If you prefer a richer cake, substitute half the butter in the batter with cream cheese.
• Make sure to cool the cake just enough before flipping to avoid breaking the topping but while it’s still slightly warm to release cleanly.

Storage

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness and bring out the caramel flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds work well as substitutes if you prefer. Toast them lightly for the best flavor.

How do I prevent the topping from sticking to the pan?

Greasing the pan thoroughly and allowing the cake to cool slightly before flipping ensures the topping releases easily.

Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

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4.5 from 57 reviews

This Pecan Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert featuring a rich caramelized pecan topping atop a moist and fluffy vanilla cake. The combination of buttery brown sugar pecans with a tender cake base makes it a perfect treat for any occasion.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Topping

• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
• 1 cup Brown sugar
• 1 cup Pecans, chopped

Cake Batter

• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 3 Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a round cake pan to prevent sticking and help the topping caramelize beautifully.
2. Make the Pecan Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until it starts bubbling. Stir in the chopped pecans to coat them evenly in the caramel mixture.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one by one, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract for flavor depth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to maintain a tender crumb.
5. Assemble the Cake: Pour the pecan topping mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly over the bottom. Then carefully pour the cake batter on top, smoothing it out evenly.
6. Bake and Cool: Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting it onto a serving plate to reveal the glossy pecan topping.

Notes

• Ensure the butter for creaming is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense cake.
• Allow the cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes before flipping to prevent the topping from sticking to the pan.
• Chopped pecans can be toasted beforehand for an extra nutty flavor.
• This cake is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side.

Keywords: Pecan Cake, Upside Down Cake, Caramel Pecan Cake, Dessert, Cake Recipe