Pecan Upside Down Cake

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Sticky, sweet, and downright decadent, Pecan Upside Down Cake is a show-stopping dessert that tastes just as good as it looks. Each bite delivers a soft, buttery cake base drenched in a glossy pecan-caramel topping that oozes rich, nutty flavor. It’s a twist on classic Southern flavors that feels both comforting and celebratory.

What makes this cake especially irresistible is the way the pecan layer caramelizes in the oven, forming a golden crown once flipped. It has that magical balance of chewy edges, gooey topping, and a soft crumb. Whether you serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled with a cup of coffee, it always brings a little Southern charm to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Upside Down Cake

You’ll fall for this cake’s texture and flavor instantly. The pecan topping creates a natural glaze, so no need for frosting. It’s a great option for holidays or casual gatherings because it comes together with pantry staples yet presents like something from a bakery window. The warm, buttery aroma alone will have everyone asking when dessert is ready.

Even better? It only looks fancy. You don’t need any piping skills or special pans, and you get that “wow” effect every time you invert it onto a plate.

What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

While homemade batter can certainly be used, this recipe is designed to be simple and stress-free. A good-quality yellow cake mix works beautifully here. It has just enough richness and vanilla flavor to complement the sweet pecan topping. If you prefer something more robust, try a butter golden mix for extra depth. Just make sure to follow the box instructions and avoid overmixing—a light, fluffy cake is the goal.

Ingredients for the Pecan Upside Down Cake

This cake is built with familiar, no-fuss ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The two layers—pecan topping and cake base—meld together to form one harmonious dessert that delivers on texture and taste.

• Pecans: The star of the show. Use halved or chopped pecans, depending on the presentation you want. They toast and caramelize as the cake bakes.
• Brown Sugar: Essential for that deep, molasses-rich flavor in the caramel layer.
• Butter: Unsalted and melted, butter gives the pecan topping richness and helps it stick to the cake when inverted.
• Corn Syrup: Adds shine and chewiness to the caramel glaze.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and brings out the nutty flavor.
• Yellow Cake Mix: The shortcut base that turns this into an easy-bake favorite.
• Eggs, Oil, Water (for cake mix): As called for by your cake mix box instructions. These bring the batter together and help it rise fluffy and moist.

How To Make the Pecan Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Start by melting butter in a saucepan and stirring in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Once everything is combined and slightly bubbling, pour the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Scatter the pecans evenly over the top.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

Follow the instructions on your cake mix box, combining the dry mix with eggs, oil, and water. Mix until smooth but don’t overdo it—you want a light texture.

Step 3: Layer and Bake

Carefully pour the cake batter over the pecan mixture in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly without disturbing the topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Flip and Cool

Let the cake sit in the pan for 5 minutes after baking. Then run a knife around the edges, place a serving plate over the top, and flip it quickly. Let it rest another few minutes before removing the pan.

Step 5: Serve Warm or Chill

Serve it warm for gooey deliciousness or chilled for a more set texture. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve and Store Pecan Upside Down Cake

This cake is best enjoyed slightly warm, when the caramel layer is still a bit gooey and the pecans offer a buttery crunch. It makes a stunning dessert for gatherings or an indulgent weekend treat. Serve it plain, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of luxury.

The cake serves about 8 people, depending on how generously you slice it. To store leftovers, cover the cake with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. For reheating, a quick 10- to 15-second zap in the microwave will revive its gooey texture.

What to Serve With Pecan Upside Down Cake?

Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the rich, nutty flavors and adds a soft, airy contrast.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop melting into the warm topping is always a winning move.

Maple Glazed Carrots

If you’re serving this at a dinner party, a side of maple-glazed carrots ties the sweetness of the cake with the savory main course.

Bourbon Coffee

Enhance the Southern flavor profile with a cup of strong coffee laced with a touch of bourbon or vanilla extract.

Spiced Apples

Warm spiced apples with cinnamon and a touch of butter can serve as a cozy seasonal pairing.

Cheese Board

It might sound unusual, but a cheese board with aged cheddar or brie can offer a rich and salty foil to the sweetness of the cake.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle a bit more on top if you’re craving even more decadence. It’s hard to say no.

Want More Cake Ideas With Southern Flair?

If this Pecan Upside Down Cake stole your heart, you might love these other delicious bakes from the Luna Meals kitchen:

• Southern Hummingbird Cake Recipe for a pineapple-banana dream in every bite.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread if you like your cake rich, dense, and deeply chocolatey.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread for a nostalgic and indulgent twist on classic banana bread.
• Rhubarb Shortbread Bars with tart meets buttery layers.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for when you’re craving crispy, creamy, and fruity all in one.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold with extra pecans? Maybe added a splash of bourbon to the topping? I’d love to hear how you made it yours.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and indulgent treats on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Pecan Upside Down Cake is one of those bakes that surprises people—it looks like it came from a fancy bakery, but it’s incredibly simple to make at home. The combination of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and fluffy yellow cake is timeless. Try it once, and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box.

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