Upside Down Caramel Pecan Cake: Easy Homemade Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a dessert that looks fancy but takes minimal effort to make. This upside down caramel pecan cake fits the bill perfectly. A rich, buttery caramel pecan topping paired with a light and fluffy homemade cake—this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating the holidays, or simply craving a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it freezes well, so you can stash those leftovers for a rainy day!
Why You’ll Love This Upside Down Caramel Pecan Cake
- Easy to make: No complicated steps or fancy equipment required—just mix, bake, and invert.
- Perfect texture: The pecan topping is gooey and caramelized, while the cake itself is soft and tender.
- Make-ahead friendly: Leftovers freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.
This cake is as comforting as it gets—a recipe that feels like it’s been passed down through generations.
Ingredients for Upside Down Caramel Pecan Cake
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 stick butter (no substitutes!)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- Dash of cinnamon
- Dash of salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans
For the Cake Batter:
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Dash of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake this showstopping cake:
1. Prepare the pecan topping
- In a skillet, melt 1 stick of butter over medium-low heat.
- Stir in 1/3 cup honey, 1/2 cup brown sugar, a dash of cinnamon, and a dash of salt.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of pecans and cook gently until the butter and sugar are fully melted.
- Important: Do not let the mixture boil—just cook until everything is combined.
- Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
2. Make the cake batter
- In a large bowl, beat 3 eggs and 1 cup sugar together until fluffy.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/2 cup oil, and 1 cup milk.
- Sift in 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and a dash of salt. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Tip: The batter will be thin—that’s exactly how it should be!
3. Assemble the cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Heavily grease and flour a Bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily.
- Pour the pecan topping mixture into the bottom of the Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully pour the cake batter on top of the pecan mixture.
- Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
4. Bake to perfection
- Place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes.
- Start checking around the 35-minute mark—insert a toothpick into the cake. If it comes out clean (no wet batter), it’s done!
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
5. Invert the cake
- Place a plate or serving platter on top of the Bundt pan.
- Carefully invert the cake by flipping the pan upside down.
- Gently tap the pan with a butter knife if needed, and lift it off to reveal the gorgeous caramel pecan topping.
Tips for Success
- Grease the pan well: A heavily greased and floured Bundt pan is key to ensuring the cake releases cleanly.
- Don’t skip the cooling step: Letting the cake cool for 10 minutes before inverting helps it set and prevents the topping from sticking.
- Use fresh pecans: Fresh, quality pecans make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This upside down caramel pecan cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate it even more:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with a little extra honey or caramel sauce for added decadence.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk for the ultimate cozy treat.
Storing and Freezing
- Storage: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: This cake freezes beautifully! Slice it into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
Why This Upside Down Caramel Pecan Cake is a Must-Try
This cake is a sweet, buttery masterpiece that’s deceptively easy to make. The caramelized pecan topping adds a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the light, fluffy cake. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen—ideal for holidays, celebrations, or a simple Sunday dessert.
If you’re looking for a new favorite to add to your recipe box, this upside down caramel pecan cake is the answer.
Conclusion
This upside down caramel pecan cake combines the best of buttery caramel, crunchy pecans, and a soft homemade cake. It’s a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Bake it for a special occasion—or just because—and savor every bite.
Happy baking!
