Introduction to Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Why choose Pecan Upside-Down Cake?
If you're searching for a dessert that’s both show-stopping and delicious, look no further than the Pecan Upside-Down Cake. This delightful treat features a layer of buttery, caramelized pecans that sit like a crown atop a moist and fluffy cake. The blend of flavors creates an irresistible combination that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy get-together or a formal dinner party.
One of the great things about this cake is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll have a dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes. The best part? The contrasting textures between the crunchy pecans and the soft, rich cake will have your friends and family asking for seconds.
Plus, did you know that pecans are a great source of healthy fats and antioxidants? This means you can indulge a little without substantial guilt! For a special touch, consider serving your Pecan Upside-Down Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. So why wait? Dive into this recipe and treat yourself to an unforgettable dessert experience!
For more tips on baking, check out this article on baking basics.
Ingredients for Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Creating a delicious Pecan Upside-Down Cake starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for both the topping and the cake itself:
For the Pecan Topping
- Butter or cooking spray: To ensure no sticky mishaps in the pan, choose your favorite method for greasing.
- Brown sugar: ½ cup packed (light or dark) adds the deep sweetness that perfectly complements pecans.
- Unsalted butter: 8 tablespoons (1 stick), cut into 1-inch pieces, provides a rich flavor.
- Honey or light corn syrup: ¼ cup for that luscious, sticky texture.
- Kosher salt: A pinch (⅛ teaspoon) enhances the overall flavor.
- Raw pecan halves: 1 ¼ cups coarsely chopped, bringing that nutty crunch.
For the Cake
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: ¾ cup at room temperature makes the cake tender and moist.
- Large eggs: 2, also at room temperature for better blending.
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups, the main structure for the cake.
- Baking powder & baking soda: A combo of 1 ½ teaspoons and ½ teaspoon helps it rise perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: ¾ cup to sweeten the deal!
- Neutral oil: ½ cup (like grapeseed or canola) adds moistness without overpowering the flavor.
- Water: ¼ cup keeps the batter just right.
- Vanilla extract or paste: 1 teaspoon for warmth and depth.
- Brown sugar: Another ¼ cup for added sweetness.
- Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon balances everything.
- Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Optional: Flaky salt for sprinkling and vanilla ice cream for that luxe serving touch.
Ready to bake? Let’s get started on this delightful cake! For more on the benefits of using raw pecans, check out this health benefits of pecans article.
Preparing Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Making a Pecan Upside-Down Cake is not just about baking; it’s a delightful experience! The process is straightforward, yet the results are scrumptious. Let’s break down the steps to create this irresistible dessert.
Make the pecan topping
To start, we need to whip up the pecan topping, which is the star of the show:
-
Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Generously coat a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or some cooking spray. A little tip: placing the pan on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet will catch any drips, saving you from a messy oven!
-
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ¼ cup honey or light corn syrup, and ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt. Stir frequently until the butter melts, and the sugar dissolves completely.
-
Once that’s ready, mix in 1 ¼ cups coarsely chopped raw pecans. Pour this luscious mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Prepare the cake batter
Now, let’s move on to the cake batter, which is equally simple and delicious:
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon baking soda. It's important to get this step right to ensure a fluffy cake.
-
In a large bowl, mix together ¾ cup room-temperature sour cream, 2 large eggs, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup of neutral oil, ¼ cup water, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Blend until smooth!
-
Stir in the flour mixture in two batches; just mix until it’s smooth to avoid overmixing—overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
-
In the now-empty bowl, combine ¼ cup packed brown sugar with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. Take half of the cake batter and dollop it over the pecans. Spread it out gently, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mix, and cover with the remaining batter.
Assemble the cake
Carefully layer everything in the pan. Make sure the batter completely covers the sugar mixture to lock in all that flavor. With the zest of cinnamon and the crunch of pecans, can you already smell it?
Bake to perfection
Slide your cake pan into the preheated oven. Keep an eye on it—bake for about 35 to 40 minutes until it's a deep golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean. If it’s browning too rapidly, tent it with some aluminum foil after 30 minutes.
Cool and invert
Once out of the oven, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Run a thin knife around the edges to loosen, then invert it onto a plate – the sweet pecans should now be on top! Sprinkle a little flaky salt on for an added flair if desired. Let it cool to room temperature, and consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence.
By following these steps, you’re sure to impress your guests with a spectacular Pecan Upside-Down Cake that’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors! For more baking tips, you can check out resources from King Arthur Baking or America's Test Kitchen. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Variations on Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Maple Pecan Upside-Down Cake
For a delightful twist on the classic Pecan Upside-Down Cake, try incorporating maple syrup into the topping. Replace the honey or light corn syrup with an equal amount of pure maple syrup, and consider adding a splash of maple extract to the cake batter. The rich, earthy flavor of maple enhances the pecans beautifully, creating a comforting dessert perfect for cozy gatherings. Serve with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Spiced Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Want to add a little warmth? The Spiced Pecan Upside-Down Cake takes the original recipe up a notch by infusing the cake batter with spices like nutmeg and allspice. Adding these subtle flavors complements the sweetness of the pecans and brown sugar topping. A pinch of ground ginger can add an unexpected zing. This variation is perfect for fall or holiday celebrations—and your guests will be raving about it long after the last slice is gone!
For more delicious variations and tips, check out these flavorful recipes.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Pecan Upside-Down Cake
When making your Pecan Upside-Down Cake, it’s essential to have everything ready before you start. Prep your ingredients, ensuring your eggs and dairy are at room temperature for a smoother batter. For a touch of finesse, toast your pecans for a few minutes before adding them; this will enhance their flavor and give your cake an extra delicious crunch. Watch the baking time carefully—every oven is different. If it’s browning too fast, simply tent it with foil. And of course, don’t skip the vanilla ice cream on the side; it perfectly complements the cake! For extra tips, check out King Arthur Baking for baking advice.
Serving Suggestions for Pecan Upside-Down Cake
When it comes to enjoying your delightful Pecan Upside-Down Cake, consider a few serving suggestions to elevate this treat even further.
-
Serve Warm: Warm slices right out of the oven highlight the gooey pecan topping. Just 10-15 minutes of cooling is ideal.
-
Ice Cream Accompaniment: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the cake’s richness. The creamy texture balances beautifully with the crunchy pecans.
-
Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add a fresh element by garnishing with berries or sliced apples. This seasonal touch adds flavor and color.
-
Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enhance your dessert experience with a cup of coffee or herbal tea, making it perfect for brunch or dessert gatherings.
These tips will help you savor every bite of your delicious Pecan Upside-Down Cake!
Time Breakdown for Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Preparation Time
This scrumptious Pecan Upside-Down Cake requires about 15 minutes of preparation. It's a quick and enjoyable process that sets the stage for your delightful dessert.
Cooking Time
Baking the cake takes around 45 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will fill with the enticing aroma of caramelized pecans and cinnamon, making it hard to resist.
Total Time
In just 1 hour of your time, you can create a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress!
Want to learn more about creating a delicious dessert? Explore how to choose the best baking equipment to make your cooking adventures even smoother!
Nutritional Facts for Pecan Upside-Down Cake
When whipping up a delightful Pecan Upside-Down Cake, it's always helpful to understand its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each slice of this cake offers approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying treat without overindulging.
Protein
You'll find about 4 grams of protein per slice, thanks to the eggs and sour cream. This little boost helps keep you fuller for longer.
Sugar
Keep in mind that each slice has around 20 grams of sugar, primarily from the added sugars and natural sweetness of the honey and pecans. Moderation is key when enjoying this delicious dessert!
Please remember that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more health insights, check out Eat Right or MyFitnessPal.
FAQ about Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Can I use different nuts for the topping?
Absolutely! While pecans add a rich, buttery flavor to your Pecan Upside-Down Cake, feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts. Just keep in mind that different nuts may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Make sure to chop them coarsely for the best results.
How do I store leftover cake?
To keep your Pecan Upside-Down Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for a longer shelf life. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is perfect for prepping in advance. You can bake it a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a chance to warm up before serving, and consider adding a scoop of ice cream on the side for an extra treat!
Want to learn more about making the best Pecan Upside-Down Cake? Check out our detailed recipe guide for tips!
Conclusion on Pecan Upside-Down Cake
In conclusion, the Pecan Upside-Down Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a delightful experience that combines rich flavors and textures. This cake is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the sweet moments!
For more baking inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking and elevate your culinary skills.
Pecan Upside-Down Cake
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- small saucepan
- medium bowl
- large bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
Pecan Topping
- ½ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup honey or light corn syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ¼ cups raw pecan halves, coarsely chopped (about 5 ounces)
Cake
- ¾ cup sour cream or plain full-fat Greek yogurt at room temperature
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup neutral oil such as grapeseed, vegetable, or canola
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste
- ¼ cup light or dark brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Flaky salt for sprinkling (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
Make the pecan topping
- Heat the oven to 350ºF. Coat a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray. Place on an aluminum-foil lined baking sheet.
- Place ½ cup packed brown sugar, 1 stick unsalted butter, ¼ cup honey, and ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the butter is melted and sugar is just dissolved.
- Stir in 1 ¼ cups coarsely chopped raw pecans. Transfer to the cake pan and spread into an even layer.
Make the cake
- Whisk 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon baking soda together in a medium bowl.
- Whisk ¾ cup room-temperature sour cream, 2 room-temperature large eggs, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup neutral oil, ¼ cup water, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt in a large bowl until smooth. Working in two batches, stir in the flour mixture until the batter is just smooth (do not overmix).
- Stir ¼ cup packed brown sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon together in the now-empty flour mixture bowl.
- Dollop half of the batter (about 1 ½ cups) over the pecans, then spread into an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Dollop with the remaining batter and carefully spread into an even layer, covering the sugar mixture.
- Bake until deep golden-brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 35 to 40 minutes. Check after 30 minutes: If the cake is browning too much, tent it lightly with aluminum foil.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Run a thin knife along the edge to loosen the cake. Invert the cake onto a large plate and sprinkle with flaky salt if desired. Let cool until room temperature. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Leave a Reply