If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, I can’t recommend this Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe enough! It’s a delightful treat where buttery, caramelized pecans crown a tender, moist vanilla cake—baking up with a golden crust that makes every bite irresistible. The mix of crunchy pecans and velvety cake is a beautiful contrast that feels just like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five white bowls of different sizes placed on a white marbled surface. The top right bowl holds melted yellow butter with a smooth texture and some small bubbles. To the left, a larger bowl is filled with light brown sugar that looks soft and crumbly. Below the sugar bowl, there is a small bowl containing a dark amber liquid, placed next to a tiny bowl with a mix of white granulated sugar and brown cinnamon powder. At the bottom right, a medium bowl is filled with chopped pecans showing a mix of light brown pieces and darker brown shells. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe calls for simple pantry staples that combine to deliver exceptional texture and depth of flavor. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s the tender crumb of the cake, the rich buttery topping, or the perfect hint of cinnamon spice.

All-purpose flour (2¼ cups / 270 g): The backbone of the cake ensuring the perfect structure and crumb.
Baking powder (1½ tsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
Salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted butter (¾ cup / 170 g), room temperature: Adds richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
Canola oil (3 tablespoons / 45 ml): Keeps the cake moist without weighing it down.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup / 150 g): Sweetens the batter while aiding browning.
Light brown sugar (¾ cup / 150 g + ½ cup / 100 g for topping): Adds a deep caramel flavor to both cake and topping.
Large eggs (3), room temperature: Provide structure and richness.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon / 60 ml): For a warm aromatic flavor boost.
Sour cream (1/3 cup / 90 g), room temperature: Adds tang and keeps the cake moist and tender.
Buttermilk (¾ cup / 180 ml), room temperature: Reacts with baking powder for lift while adding a slight tanginess.
Melted butter (½ cup / 118 ml) for topping: Combines with sugars to create that luscious caramelized crust.
Honey (¼ cup / 59 ml): Enhances sweetness with a floral note and aids caramelization.
Cornstarch (¾ tsp): Helps thicken the topping so it stays delectably gooey without running.
Ground cinnamon (½ tsp): Adds warm spice that pairs beautifully with pecans.
Pecans (1½ cups / 95 g), chopped: The star nut topping lending crunch and rich nutty flavor.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Generously grease a 10-inch bundt pan or a 9 to 10-inch cake pan so nothing sticks and your cake slides out perfectly after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl until well combined. This ensures that the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Oil, and Sugars

Using a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, cream the room temperature butter and canola oil on medium speed until smooth. Then, slowly add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar while mixing on low. Increase to medium speed and beat for about 3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale—this step is key for a tender cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Lower the mixer speed and add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract. The batter may look a bit curdled—that’s perfectly normal and part of achieving that luscious texture.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

On low speed (or gently by hand), add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with two parts of buttermilk. This gradual mixing creates a smooth, well-balanced batter that resembles a classic vanilla pound cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In another large bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, light brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans, then pour this mixture evenly into your prepared pan. This layer is what makes this cake a spectacular upside down treat.

Step 7: Layer the Cake Batter and Bake

Gently pour the vanilla cake batter over the pecan topping in the pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until the edges pull away slightly and the center springs back when pressed. The aroma while baking will have your kitchen smelling heavenly!

Step 8: Cool and Invert the Cake

After baking, allow the cake to cool for 8 to 10 minutes on a rack. To unmold, place a serving plate or second cooling rack on top of the pan, invert quickly, and gently tap to release the cake. If any pecans stick to the pan, just scoop and place them back onto the top while the cake is still warm.

How to Serve Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe

A close-up view of a white bundt cake pan filled with smooth, light beige batter, evenly spread in a spiral pattern inside the pan. The batter has a creamy texture with soft swirls and waves, surrounding the central hole of the pan. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright background. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your cake by dusting a little powdered sugar or drizzling warm caramel sauce on top. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, creating a dreamy balance to the crunchy pecans and moist cake.

Side Dishes

This cake loves company from simple sides like fresh berries or a citrus salad that cuts through the sweetness with bright, refreshing notes. If you want a cozy vibe, a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai complements the warm flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a sprinkle of toasted pecans and a drizzle of warm honey right before serving for that extra wow factor. You can also plate a wedge with freshly whipped mascarpone and a crack of black pepper for a unique flavor twist that surprises the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten Pecan Upside Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake remains moist and flavorful, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and revives the caramelized topping just perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if you want a different nutty flavor or if pecans aren’t on hand. Just chop them roughly and use in the same amount for that irresistible crunch.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries! You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ¾ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle before using it in your batter.

Is it necessary to use both butter and oil in the cake batter?

Using both helps achieve a perfect balance between flavor and moisture. Butter provides richness and flavor, while oil keeps the cake tender and moist longer. It’s a delicious combo worth trying!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well to keep the cake light and fluffy.

How long can I keep the baked cake at room temperature?

Stored covered tightly, the Pecan Upside Down Cake stays fresh and delightful for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed within that timeframe for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Upside Down Cake Recipe is the kind of dessert that feels like a cozy celebration every time you make it. With its buttery, caramelized nuts and tender crumb, it’s been a favorite for good reason. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, I hope you enjoy baking and sharing this wonderful cake as much as I do. Go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!