Upside Down Pecan Cake with Caramel Topping
Discover the rich and irresistible Upside Down Pecan Cake with Caramel Topping, combining a moist buttery cake with a glossy, crunchy caramel-pecan layer. This elegant yet effortless dessert balances gooey sweetness and toasted nutty crunch, perfect for any occasion from celebratory gatherings to cozy weeknights. With versatile variations and simple steps, it’s a must-try classic that pleases pecan lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Not Gluten Free
Caramel Pecan Topping
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Butter
- 1 cup Light Brown Sugar
- 3/4 cup Chopped Pecans
Cake Batter
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) Butter, softened
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1/2 cup Milk
- Prepare the Caramel Pecan Topping: In your skillet or cake pan, melt 1/2 cup butter with 1 cup light brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is bubbly and fully combined. Evenly sprinkle 3/4 cup chopped pecans across the caramel to cover the bottom of the pan thoroughly.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a separate bowl, cream 3/4 cup softened butter with 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 2 eggs one at a time, then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Alternate adding 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour mixed with 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 cup milk, mixing gently just until combined to avoid overworking.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cake batter gently over the caramel-pecan topping in the pan, spreading evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes after removing from the oven. Place a serving plate on top of the pan and carefully flip it upside down to reveal the glossy caramel and pecan topping.
Notes
- Use fresh pecans and toast them lightly before adding to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before flipping to prevent caramel sticking.
- Spread the caramel and nuts evenly across the pan to avoid bare spots in the topping.
- Check cake doneness a few minutes before the end of baking to avoid dryness.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter and better rise.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: upside down pecan cake, caramel topping, pecan dessert, buttery cake, toasted pecans, moist cake, caramel glaze, holiday dessert