Pecan Upside Down Cake

Save this recipe on:

Rich, nutty, and lusciously caramelized, Pecan Upside Down Cake is a true Southern-inspired dessert that brings a touch of indulgence to your table. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just a cozy weekend treat, this cake delivers warm notes of brown sugar and butter with the perfect crunch of pecans on top (or rather, the bottom… until you flip it!).

Every slice is a gooey, nutty bite of heaven, with a buttery base that soaks up all that sticky pecan topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and watch it vanish in seconds.

---

What Kind of Pecans Work Best?

When making this cake, go for whole pecan halves. They create that picture-perfect topping and add just the right amount of crunch. Fresh, unsalted pecans are ideal to balance the rich sweetness of the caramel layer.

---

Ingredients for the Pecan Upside Down Cake

• Pecan Halves – The star of the topping. Choose fresh, plump ones for the best texture and flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Used in both the topping and batter, it adds richness and helps everything meld together.
• Brown Sugar – Caramelizes beautifully over the pecans, giving that sticky-sweet finish.
• Heavy Cream – Added to the topping for a smooth and luscious caramel layer.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cake batter, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering.
• Eggs – Add moisture and help bind everything together.
• Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
• Milk – Keeps the crumb light and soft.

---

How To Make the Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of heavy cream until smooth and bubbling. Pour this mixture evenly into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Gently layer 1 1/2 cups of pecan halves over the caramel.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air for a soft crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup of milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Carefully spoon the batter over the pecan topping in the cake pan. Spread it evenly without disturbing the pecans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Flip and Serve

Let the cake rest for 10 minutes after baking. Run a knife around the edges and invert it onto a serving plate. Serve warm and let that glossy pecan topping shine!

---

How to Serve and Store This Pecan Upside Down Cake

Pecan Upside Down Cake is best enjoyed warm when the caramel topping is at its gooey peak. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. If you’re serving it for a special brunch or dinner party, slice it right at the table to impress your guests.

To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to reawaken the caramel layer.

---

What to Serve With Pecan Upside Down Cake?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold, creamy contrast pairs perfectly with the warm, nutty caramel topping.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy, whipped cream adds a subtle richness without overpowering the cake.

Bourbon Glaze

A drizzle of bourbon glaze takes this dessert to a whole new level of decadence.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or even blackberries offer a tart contrast to the sweetness.

Spiced Apple Compote

Warm apples cooked with cinnamon and cloves bring cozy fall vibes to the plate.

Hot Coffee

The slightly bitter notes of a fresh brew cut through the richness beautifully.

Chai Tea

The spices in chai complement the brown sugar and pecan flavors incredibly well.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Double down on the caramel experience by drizzling extra sauce over your slice.

---

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you adore this sticky, nutty masterpiece, you’ll fall in love with these other delightful cakes from our kitchen:

• Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake for a fruity twist with spiced warmth.
• Double Chocolate Ricotta Marble Cake if you’re after something rich and sophisticated.
• Pineapple Heaven Cake for tropical sweetness in every bite.
• German Chocolate Poke Cake with a luscious coconut filling.
• Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake that brings the brown sugar love front and center.

---

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: