Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Pecan Topping
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar until smooth and slightly bubbly.
Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and spread evenly.
Arrange the pecans on top — either neatly in a pattern or scattered for a rustic look.
3. Prepare the Cake Batter
In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, mixing gently until just combined — don’t overmix.
4. Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter evenly over the pecan topping and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
5. Invert and Serve
Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake.
Place a serving plate on top of the pan and carefully flip it over.
Lift off the pan to reveal that golden, caramelized pecan topping.
Serve warm or at room temperature — either way, it’s divine.
Tips for the Best Results
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Line your pan with parchment for a flawless flip.
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Mix the batter just until combined — overmixing can make it dense.
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For extra depth, toast your pecans lightly before adding them to the topping.
Flavor Variations
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Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth.
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Swap a bit of brown sugar for maple syrup for a richer flavor.
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Add a splash of bourbon or rum extract for a grown-up twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your pecan upside-down cake with:
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Freshly whipped cream
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup
Perfect for:
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Holiday dinners
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Fall gatherings
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Cozy Sunday desserts
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Upside-Down Cake is the perfect blend of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors — simple to bake, yet elegant enough to impress. Whether you’re baking it for the holidays or a quiet night at home, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
Share Your Creations
Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to know how it turned out!
Share your experience, tips, or personal twists in the comments — your version might inspire someone else to try it too.