Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

Pecan Upside Down Cake is a delicious dessert that combines a rich, buttery cake with a sweet, sticky pecan topping. The pecans are caramelized in brown sugar and butter, giving the cake a lovely, nutty flavor. When the cake is flipped over, the pecans form a beautiful and tasty topping that makes this dessert extra special. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just a treat to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pecan Topping

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. Alternatively, line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly. If you want a creamier topping, add the heavy cream and mix well.
3. Arrange the Pecans: Pour the caramelized sugar mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan. Arrange the pecans in a single layer over the mixture. Set the pan aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

1. Pour the Batter: Gently pour the cake batter over the pecans in the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake the Cake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes to ensure the top doesn’t brown too much.

Step 4: Flipping the Cake

1. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, carefully run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it.
2. Flip the Cake: Place a large plate or cake stand over the top of the cake pan. Using oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands, flip the pan over quickly. Tap the bottom gently to release the cake. Let it sit for a minute before lifting the pan off.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving. The pecans will be beautifully caramelized on top, giving this cake an irresistible look and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Upside Down Cake:

• Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh pecans that are not too old. They’ll add extra crunch and flavor to your cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix gently to avoid making the cake dense. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.
• Check Doneness: If you’re not sure if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it slightly before serving for the best taste.

Conclusion

This Pecan Upside Down Cake is a sweet and nutty delight that will satisfy your dessert cravings. The caramelized pecan topping is perfectly complemented by the soft, moist cake, making it an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this cake will always be a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe, and you’ll be hooked on the deliciousness of pecan upside-down cake!

Hill Country Weekly

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different flavor, but pecans give it a classic taste.

Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

Yes! You can substitute regular milk or make your own buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk.

Can I prepare this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature. Just flip it over when ready to serve.

Can I use a different size cake pan?

Yes, you can use a different size pan, but be sure to adjust the baking time as needed. A larger pan may require a shorter baking time, while a smaller pan may require a longer baking time.

How can I make this cake even more decadent?

Top the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!