This show-stopping dessert combines a rich butter cake with a gooey, caramelized pecan topping that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something spectacularly sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The magic happens when you flip this cake, revealing a gorgeous topping of perfectly arranged pecans in a golden caramel sauce. It’s easier than it looks but impressive enough for company!

Ingredients

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cake

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Melt butter in 9-inch cake pan in oven
3. Stir in brown sugar and salt
4. Arrange pecans in decorative pattern

Make the Cake Batter

1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy
3. Beat in eggs one at a time
4. Add vanilla
5. Alternate adding flour mixture and milk

Bake and Flip

1. Pour batter over pecan layer
2. Bake 45-50 minutes until done
3. Cool 5 minutes in pan
4. Run knife around edge
5. Invert onto serving plate immediately

Pro Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients
• Don’t overbake – cake should spring back when touched
• Flip while still warm
• Arrange pecans carefully – they’ll be your presentation
• Place serving plate over pan before flipping

Troubleshooting

• If pecans stick: place pan over low heat briefly
• If too dark: cover with foil while baking
• If too pale: broil carefully for 1-2 minutes
• If center not done: tent with foil and continue baking

Storage Tips

• Best served same day
• Keeps at room temperature 3-4 days
• Can be refrigerated up to a week
• Warm slightly before serving leftovers

Final Note

This Pecan Upside Down Cake is a beautiful blend of buttery cake and caramelized nuts. The “wow” factor when you flip it makes it perfect for special occasions!

Share your upside-down creations! 🍰🥜