Pecan Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a moist vanilla cake with a rich, caramelized pecan topping. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Pecan Upside Down Cake. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 box vanilla cake mix (I used Betty Crocker Super Moist Vanilla)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Topping
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Topping Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, chopped pecans, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Spread Topping: Pour the pecan mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and water. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
- Pour Batter: Carefully pour the cake batter over the pecan topping in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Invert the Cake
- Invert Cake: Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it. Place a large serving platter over the baking dish and carefully invert the cake onto the platter. The pecan topping should be on top of the cake.
- Serve: Serve the Pecan Upside Down Cake warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Topping: Make sure the pecan topping is spread evenly in the baking dish to ensure even coverage on the cake.
- Inversion: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before inverting helps the topping set and prevents it from spilling.
Variations
- Spiced Pecan Topping: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan topping mixture for a spiced flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Cake: Stir 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the cake batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Rum Pecan Topping: Add 1 tablespoon of dark rum to the pecan topping mixture for an extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat slices in the microwave before serving if desired.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q4: What can I serve with Pecan Upside Down Cake?
A: This cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Q5: Can I use a different type of cake mix?
A: Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you prefer, such as butter pecan, yellow cake, or even chocolate cake.
Pecan Upside Down Cake is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist vanilla cake and rich, caramelized pecan topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying cake that everyone will love. Serve this delightful cake with your favorite accompaniments for a complete and indulgent treat!
Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dessert, a special treat for guests, or a delightful addition to any gathering, this Pecan Upside Down Cake recipe is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.
