Name: Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup; 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces); 3 large eggs; 1 cup water; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re ready to wow a crowd or just treat yourself to something irresistibly sweet, let me introduce you to Pecan Upside Down Cake. This show-stopping dessert delivers a magical combination of gooey caramelized pecans baked into a soft, golden cake that flips out perfectly every time. With a shortcut cake mix base and a decadently nutty topping, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug from the oven. Whether you’re new to upside-down cakes or already a fan, you’ll love how easy it is to create this dreamy treat at home.

Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the buttery, sticky pecan layer to the light, fluffy cake beneath. You don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of pantry staples and a few delicious extras that make Pecan Upside Down Cake truly special.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Melted butter is the secret to a rich, golden topping that soaks into every bite.
Light brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and creates the classic sticky-sweet finish.
Light corn syrup or maple syrup (1/4 cup): This keeps the topping glossy and helps everything hold together deliciously.
Chopped pecans (1 1/2 cups): The star of the show! Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance the warmth and depth of the pecan layer.
Pinch of salt: A tiny bit brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): The ultimate shortcut for a soft, fluffy base—feel free to swap in butter pecan or spice cake mix for a fun twist.
Large eggs (3): Eggs add richness and help the cake rise beautifully.
Water (1 cup): Keeps the cake batter moist and light.
Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Adds tenderness and ensures a soft crumb.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the cake with a subtle, comforting aroma.

How to Make Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan generously, or line it with parchment paper for an easy release later. This step ensures that when you flip the cake, all that gooey pecan goodness comes out perfectly intact.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), chopped pecans, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the nuts are evenly coated and the mixture looks thick and glossy. Pour this sweet, nutty mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out to cover the bottom completely. This will become the glorious top of your Pecan Upside Down Cake after baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

Grab a large bowl and mix up your cake batter by combining the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and lump-free—just a couple of minutes with a hand mixer or vigorous whisk does the trick. Carefully pour the batter over the pecan mixture in the pan, spreading it gently with a spatula so you don’t disturb the layer underneath.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The smell of caramelized pecans and warm cake filling your kitchen is really something special!

Step 5: The Big Flip

Let the cake rest in the pan for about 5 minutes once it’s out of the oven. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then the moment of truth: place a large serving tray or baking sheet over the top and (carefully!) invert the pan. Let it sit upside down for a few minutes so the pecan topping can release, then gently lift off the pan. Your beautiful Pecan Upside Down Cake is ready to serve—no extra fuss required.

How to Serve Pecan Upside Down Cake

Garnishes

For a simple finishing touch, dust the cake with a little powdered sugar or add a few extra toasted pecans on top. If you want to go all out, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will make every slice even more decadent. A dollop of softly whipped cream is always a welcome addition, especially for special occasions.

Side Dishes

This cake shines on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a swirl of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream really takes it over the top. For a lighter touch, serve alongside fresh berries or a small bowl of sliced pears or apples—these add a juicy, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Pecan Upside Down Cake.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try cutting the cake into neat squares and arranging them on a platter for a grab-and-go dessert bar. For a more elegant presentation, serve slices on individual plates with a drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. You can also bake the recipe in individual ramekins for cute, personal-sized upside-down cakes—perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pecan Upside Down Cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. I like to keep mine in an airtight container or simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep the cake fresh and moist.

Freezing

If you want to make the cake ahead or save a few slices for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm slice, simply microwave individual pieces for 15–20 seconds, or pop the whole cake (covered with foil) into a low oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back that irresistible gooey texture and makes the pecan topping extra luscious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While pecans give this cake its signature flavor, you can easily swap in walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size so the topping cooks evenly.

What’s the best way to invert the cake without making a mess?

Let the cake cool for a few minutes, then use a large tray or baking sheet that’s bigger than your cake pan. Hold the tray firmly against the pan, then flip both together in one quick motion. Let it rest upside down for a few minutes so the topping releases fully before lifting off the pan.

Can I make Pecan Upside Down Cake with homemade cake batter?

Definitely! If you prefer homemade cake, use your favorite yellow or butter cake recipe. Just make sure you have enough batter to fill a 9×13-inch pan so it bakes up nice and thick over the pecan topping.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten free?

Yes, you can use a gluten free yellow cake mix and be sure all your other ingredients are gluten free. The results are just as delicious, and no one will miss the gluten!

Can I prepare the pecan topping in advance?

You sure can! Mix up the pecan topping and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before spreading in your pan, so it’s easy to work with.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe inspires you to bake up a pan of Pecan Upside Down Cake soon. It’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles to every table and always disappears in a flash. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a special celebration, or just because, there’s something truly special about flipping out that gooey, nutty topping and sharing a slice with someone you love. Happy baking!

Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic Southern dessert featuring a rich buttery pecan topping caramelized under a moist yellow cake, creating a delightful pecan upside down cake perfect for holidays and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pecan Topping:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
1/4 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For the Cake Batter:

1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make the Pecan Topping: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, light brown sugar, light corn syrup or maple syrup, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Pour this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and fully combined to ensure an even texture.
Assemble the Cake: Carefully pour the cake batter over the pecan mixture in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the topping completely.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
Cool and Invert: Let the cake rest for 5 minutes in the pan after baking. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a large serving tray or baking sheet over the pan and carefully flip the cake onto the tray. Allow the pan to stay inverted for a few minutes so the pecan topping releases fully.
Serve: Gently lift the pan off and serve the cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

You can use butter pecan or spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a richer flavor variation.
This cake is especially delicious when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American