This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
For the Topping
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick), melted | |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup (200 g), packed | |
| Pecans | 1½ cups (about 150 g) | Halves or chopped |
For the Cake
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1½ cups (190 g) | |
| Baking powder | 1½ teaspoons | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick), softened | |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup (150 g) | |
| Eggs | 2 large | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| Milk | ¾ cup (180 ml) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or cast-iron skillet.
2. Make the Topping
Pour the melted butter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter, and then arrange the pecans on top.
3. Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
4. Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
5. Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter over the pecan topping and smooth it into an even layer. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Invert
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Upside Down Cake
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet creates a beautifully even caramelized topping.
Arrange Pecans Neatly: Arrange the pecans in a decorative pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the cake tough.
Invert While Warm: Invert the cake while it's still warm so the topping doesn't stick to the pan.
Delicious Variations
| Variation | What to Add/Change |
|---|---|
| Pineapple Upside Down Cake | Use pineapple slices instead of pecans. |
| Apple Upside Down Cake | Use sliced apples and add cinnamon. |
| Maple Pecan Cake | Add maple syrup to the topping. |
| Bourbon Pecan Cake | Add a splash of bourbon to the topping. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds work beautifully.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! This cake freezes well for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with this?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is a wonderful accompaniment.
A Gentle Reminder
This Pecan Upside Down Cake is a beautiful reminder that the simplest desserts are often the most cherished. It's warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying.
