Name: Pecan Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup corn syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 box vanilla cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water; 3 tablespoons sour cream

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of tasting fall in every bite, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this Pecan Upside Down Cake. Imagine a cake that’s perfectly moist, topped with a sweet, sticky pecan layer that melts in your mouth—from the very first forkful to the last crumb! This classic dessert comes together quickly using a few pantry staples, making it as easy as it is irresistible. I first baked this for my daughter’s birthday, and suddenly—poof!—there wasn’t a slice left minutes after slicing. It’s the kind of simple yet spectacular cake that turns any afternoon into a small celebration. Unlike my popular Pineapple Upside Down Cake, this recipe brings a cozy, nutty twist that readers can’t get enough of! If you’re craving comfort and simplicity, you’re in for a treat—let’s bake up some sweet memories together.

What is Pecan Upside Down Cake?

Ever wondered how a classic cake ends up on its head—and tastes even BETTER for it? That’s the magic of Pecan Upside Down Cake! Basically, we flip tradition upside down (literally), pouring a sweet, gooey pecan topping on the bottom of the pan and baking a dreamy vanilla cake on top. When you turn it out—ta-da!—caramelized pecans glisten on top like brown sugar jewels. Maybe the real secret is that the way to a man’s (or anyone’s!) heart really IS through the stomach. Curious? Give this a whirl and let your oven do the magic!

Why You’ll Love This

First and foremost, this cake is all about that sticky, buttery pecan topping. Every bite is packed with nutty sweetness and a subtle crunch that’s totally addictive. Baking it at home saves your wallet and lets you skip the bakery line, yet you get a treat that honestly feels gourmet. The recipe calls for a quick vanilla cake mix and a handful of classic ingredients, so you never have to stress about complicated steps or fancy gadgets. Compared to a classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you’ll notice how those buttery pecans and brown sugar rival even the best tropical flavors. If you’re in the mood to impress—yourself or your family—this cake delivers. Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite dessert to whip up at home!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Pecan Upside Down Cake is a stunner that’s shockingly simple to prep! Imagine tossing together a quick topping, mixing up a speedy vanilla cake, and then letting the oven do the rest. The rich, caramel-like layer of pecans takes minutes to whip up, and the cake base uses a convenient boxed mix. You’ll have this beauty prepped and baked in about an hour, start to finish.

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1 box vanilla cake mix
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
3 tablespoons sour cream

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a deep-dish pie pan.
Prepare the pecan topping by combining melted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, then fold in the chopped pecans.
Pour the pecan mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. Spread it evenly so every slice gets some sweet, nutty topping.
Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix with eggs, oil, water, and sour cream. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Carefully pour the cake batter over the pecan mixture, spreading it gently to cover the nuts completely.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Run a knife around the edge for easy release. Place a serving plate upside down over the pan and carefully invert the cake so the pecan layer is on top.
Let it cool slightly, then slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve Pecan Upside Down Cake With

This cake shines on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream takes it to the next level. For a truly cozy dessert, serve it with a mug of spicy chai tea or strong brewed coffee. If you’re aiming for variety, try pairing with some fresh seasonal berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce to amplify the richness. The balance of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors will delight everyone at the table!

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient Swaps: No corn syrup? Try honey or maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious finish.
Pecans: Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the topping for extra flavor and crunch.
Cake Mix: Use butter golden or vanilla cake mix for best results, but yellow cake mix works if that’s what you have.
Don’t Overbake: Watch the oven closely for the best texture; overbaking can dry out the cake.
Release Trick: Let the cake cool just enough so the topping is still gooey but won’t run. Use a knife to make sure nothing sticks before flipping.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your cake fresh, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days—the pecans will stay deliciously gooey. To freeze, wrap slices individually and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to revive that just-baked softness and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake batter instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer, substitute your favorite homemade vanilla or butter cake recipe for the boxed mix.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts make a fantastic substitute if you’re out of pecans, though the flavor will change slightly.

Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?
Swap the butter with plant-based margarine, use a dairy-free cake mix, and choose a non-dairy sour cream alternative.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?
If you plan to eat it within two days, room temperature storage is fine. For longer keeping, refrigerate to maintain freshness.

Can I make this cake in advance?
Definitely! Bake the cake ahead of time, store tightly covered, and simply reheat before serving to refresh the topping.

Conclusion

Pecan Upside Down Cake brings together everything you love in a dessert—warmth, richness, and a truly show-stopping appearance with very little fuss. The gooey caramel-like pecan layer melds perfectly with the soft, moist cake, making it ideal for family get-togethers, holiday feasts, or even those impromptu sweet cravings. With its simple steps and supermarket-friendly ingredients, you’ll be turning out bakery-worthy cakes in no time. If you’re looking for your next go-to treat, look no further. Bake it, share it, and enjoy every bite—you deserve a little upside-down sweetness in your life!