Pecan Upside Down Cake

by

Pecan Upside-Down Cake: A Delightful Southern Treat

Introduction

Pecan Upside-Down Cake is a rich, buttery dessert that combines the caramelized goodness of pecans with a soft, moist cake. This cake is a favorite in the Southern United States, where pecans are widely grown and used in traditional recipes. The cake is baked with a layer of pecans and brown sugar at the bottom of the pan, which turns into a gooey caramel topping when flipped over after baking. This luxurious dessert is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave a sweet treat.

Ingredients

For the Pecan Topping:

  • 1 cup pecans, chopped or whole
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cake Batter:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream or buttermilk
  • ½ cup milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Topping

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.
  3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the pecans over the butter-sugar mixture, arranging them decoratively if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a separate large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in sour cream (or buttermilk) until combined.
  6. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Gently pour the cake batter over the pecan mixture in the pan.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Flip

  1. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  2. Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake.
  3. Place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan, then flip both together quickly.
  4. Let the cake rest for a minute before lifting the pan.

History of Pecan Upside-Down Cake

Pecan Upside-Down Cake has roots in the traditional upside-down cake method, which dates back to the early 1900s when cast-iron skillets were commonly used for baking. The most famous version is Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, which gained popularity in the 1920s. Pecan Upside-Down Cake is a Southern adaptation, utilizing the region’s abundant pecan harvests. Pecan-based desserts, including pecan pie, have long been a staple of Southern baking, and this cake showcases the natural sweetness and crunch of pecans beautifully.

Benefits of Pecan Upside-Down Cake

  • Rich in healthy fats – Pecans provide monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
  • Energy boost – The combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats makes this a satisfying dessert.
  • Nutrient-dense – Pecans are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
  • Mood-enhancing – The buttery, caramelized topping offers a comforting, feel-good experience.

Formation & Presentation

A well-made Pecan Upside-Down Cake has a golden brown crust with a glistening caramelized pecan layer on top. It should be served warm, allowing the syrupy topping to be soft and gooey. For an elegant presentation:

  • Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Drizzle with extra caramel or chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves or toasted pecan pieces for a beautiful touch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice – Approximate)

  • Calories: 350-400
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 18g (healthy fats from pecans)
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 30g

Who Loves Pecan Upside-Down Cake?

This cake is adored by Southern dessert lovers, pecan enthusiasts, caramel lovers, and home bakers who enjoy classic, old-fashioned recipes. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate a buttery, nutty dessert with a balance of sweetness and crunch.

Perfect for:

  • Holiday gatherings (Thanksgiving, Christmas)
  • Potluck parties
  • Birthdays and celebrations
  • Comfort food cravings

Conclusion

Pecan Upside-Down Cake is a delightful, nutty, and caramelized dessert that brings comfort and indulgence in every bite. It’s a treat with rich history, nutritious benefits, and irresistible flavor, making it a must-try for all dessert lovers. Whether you serve it with coffee, ice cream, or on its own, this cake is sure to impress your family and guests!

Leave a Comment