
If you adore the buttery crunch of pecans and the sweet, sticky charm of a classic upside-down cake, this Pecan Upside-Down Cake will be your new go-to dessert. It’s a showstopper made with layers of caramelized pecans and soft, golden vanilla cake — and when you flip it out of the pan, that glossy pecan topping steals the spotlight.
This recipe has become a family favorite in my home, especially during the holidays. We love serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. But honestly, it’s too delicious to save for just special occasions — we find reasons to bake it all year long. Best part? It looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Buttery Caramel Pecan Topping: Sweet, sticky, and irresistibly nutty.
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Moist Vanilla Cake: Soft, tender, and full of rich, buttery flavor.
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Beautiful Presentation: Flips perfectly with a glossy, golden finish.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients
For the Pecan Topping
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½ cup unsalted butter
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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1 cup pecan halves (or chopped pecans)
For the Cake
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1½ tsp baking powder
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½ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¾ cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)