Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

A rich, golden caramel pecan topping sits atop a fluffy vanilla sponge in this elegant yet cozy Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual Friday lunches. The unique combination of nutty pecans and sweet caramel creates a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of caramel and pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress their friends and family.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfectly suited for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party or a cozy night in.
• No Frosting Needed: The cake stands out on its own with the caramel topping, making it low-maintenance yet elegant.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch cake pan
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch cake pan: Ensures even baking and makes flipping the cake easy once done.
• Saucepan: Ideal for melting butter and brown sugar together without burning them.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by effectively combining ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Caramel Pecan Topping

• ½ cup 113 g unsalted butter
• ¾ cup 150 g brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
• 1½ cups 160 g chopped pecans

For the Cake Batter

• 1½ cups 190 g all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup 150 g granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup 120 ml milk or buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup 113 g unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper to make removal easier after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Pecan Layer

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter along with brown sugar until combined. Add maple syrup if using. Pour this mixture into the prepared cake pan and evenly distribute chopped pecans on top.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing for a fluffier texture.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter over the pecan layer in the pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes before flipping it onto a serving plate. Peel away parchment paper gently. Serve warm or at room temperature for an unforgettable dessert experience.

How to Serve Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

Serving your Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake can elevate its deliciousness and make it a centerpiece at any gathering. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this cake.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Whip up some heavy cream and add a touch of sugar for a sweet, creamy topping that complements the nutty flavors of the cake.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly over the warm cake, creating a delightful contrast.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• For caramel lovers, drizzling additional caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Pairing the cake with fresh fruits like berries or sliced apples adds a refreshing element that balances the sweetness.

With a Cup of Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying a slice alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea creates a perfect afternoon treat, enhancing the cozy feel of this dessert.

Topped with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for added crunch. This simple addition enhances both texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

To get the most out of your baking experience, follow these helpful tips for making the perfect Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and milk are at room temperature will help create a smoother batter and better rise.

• Be Precise with Measurements: Accurate measurements can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your cake. Use a kitchen scale where possible.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of one that is fluffy and light.

• Let It Cool Before Flipping: Allowing the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before flipping prevents it from breaking apart and ensures a clean presentation.

• Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh nuts provide better flavor and crunch compared to stale ones. Toast them lightly for even more depth in taste.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

Pairing sides with your Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great side dish ideas to consider.

1. Cinnamon Roasted Apples: Warm spiced apples complement the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness from honey pairs well, offering a savory contrast to the cake’s rich flavors.

3. Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances out the dessert’s richness.

4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness, making it an excellent counterpoint to the sweet cake.

5. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can provide interesting flavors that enhance each bite of cake.

6. Savory Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits served warm can complement the dessert while adding an enjoyable textural contrast.

7. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad with citrus notes offers brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the cake.

8. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a light, healthy side option alongside this indulgent dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Ignoring the butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to uneven melting. Always use softened butter for a smooth caramel layer.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix only until combined to keep it fluffy and light.
• Not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven can ruin baking. Use an oven thermometer for precise baking results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Flipping the cake too soon may cause it to break apart. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before inverting it.
• Using stale nuts: Old pecans can affect flavor and texture. Always use fresh nuts for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake.

Can I substitute other nuts in this Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake?

Yes, you can use walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake is done?

The cake is ready when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegan version of the Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake?

You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives for a vegan version.

Final Thoughts

This Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake is not only rich and delicious but also versatile enough to fit any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite spices or even fruits like bananas. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful Upside-Down Caramel Pecan Cake, where a rich, golden caramel pecan topping crowns a fluffy vanilla sponge. This elegant yet cozy dessert is perfect for any gathering—from family brunches to casual dinners. The combination of nutty pecans and sweet caramel creates a taste experience that will leave everyone craving more. Easy to make and requiring no frosting, this cake is not only stunning but also low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
• 1½ cups chopped pecans
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk or buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch cake pan with grease and parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter with brown sugar until combined. Pour this into the cake pan and layer with chopped pecans.
3. In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs with granulated sugar until fluffy; mix in milk, vanilla, and melted butter.
4. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients without overmixing to ensure fluffiness.
5. Pour batter over the pecan layer and bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
6. Allow cooling for 10–15 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg