The Perfect Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake with Cinnamon Recipe

A warm, inviting caramel pecan upside-down cake with cinnamon that promises pure comfort in every bite.

Sweet aromas will waft through your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby.

Layers of rich, buttery goodness promise a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

Nutty pecans nestled in golden caramel create a stunning visual feast that screams indulgence.

Each slice tells a story of carefully balanced flavors and textures.

Cutting into this decadent dessert and watching caramel cascade across the plate.

This cake isn’t just a treat – it’s a moment of pure, unapologetic joy waiting to be savored.

Let’s make something magical that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon Is A Winner

• Reveal Rich Caramel Magic: Indulge in a symphony of buttery caramel that cascades over perfectly arranged pecans, creating an irresistible golden-brown canvas of sweet, gooey deliciousness.
• Celebrate Texture Perfection: Experience a delightful contrast between the crunchy, toasted pecans and the ultra-moist, tender cake that practically melts in your mouth with each heavenly bite.
• Craft Effortless Elegance: Impress family and friends with a showstopping dessert that looks professionally made but comes together with surprisingly simple steps, making you feel like a baking superstar without hours of complicated preparation.
• Warm Cinnamon Comfort: Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon that weaves through the cake, adding a cozy layer of flavor that transforms this dessert into a comforting treat perfect for any gathering or quiet afternoon indulgence.

Ingredients For Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

• Butter: Smooth base for rich caramel flavor, choose unsalted for better control of sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Deep sweetness and caramel color, preferably dark brown for intense taste.
• Heavy Cream: Creates silky caramel texture, full-fat version recommended.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure for cake's soft crumb, standard wheat flour works best.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents for cake's light texture.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor balance.
• Ground Cinnamon: Warm, aromatic spice that complements caramel and pecan flavors.

• Butter: Softened, creates tender cake texture, room temperature is crucial.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweetness and moisture, helps create tender crumb.
• Eggs: Binding agent that adds richness and structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and classic baking flavor, pure extract preferred.
• Buttermilk: Provides moisture and slight tanginess, creates tender cake texture.

• Pecan Halves: Adds crunch and nutty flavor, whole halves create beautiful presentation.

How To Make Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

Step 1: Create Gooey Caramel Base

• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream

Stir the mixture over medium heat until it becomes smooth and bubbling. Spread this golden caramel goodness into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Gently place pecan halves in a beautiful single layer across the caramel. Let it sit and wait for the next magical step.

Step 2: Whip Up Delicious Cake Batter

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon

• Softened butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar

Beat in eggs one at a time, then splash in vanilla extract. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until everything just comes together – don’t overwork the batter!

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Carefully spoon the batter over the pecan-caramel base, smoothing it out evenly. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 4: Flip and Serve

Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen. Place a serving plate on top and quickly flip the pan. Lift it away to reveal the gorgeous caramel-pecan top. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into this heavenly treat.

Tips For Baking Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

• Caramel Coating Trick: Ensure the caramel mixture is evenly spread across the pan's bottom for a perfect, glossy base that will give each slice a stunning golden sheen.
• Pecan Placement Pro: Arrange pecans carefully in a beautiful pattern to create an attractive presentation when you flip the cake upside down.
• Buttermilk Brilliance: Use room temperature buttermilk to help ingredients blend smoothly and create a tender, moist cake texture.
• Baking Precision Point: Check cake doneness early to prevent overcooking, as ovens can vary; start testing at 30 minutes with a toothpick inserted in the center.
• Cooling Technique: Wait exactly 10 minutes before inverting to allow caramel to set slightly, ensuring clean release and preventing potential breaking.

How To Store And Reheat Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Transfer any remaining cake slices to an airtight container, sealing tightly to prevent moisture loss. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping the cake's texture and flavor intact.
• Freeze for Later: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months, preserving the cake's delicious caramel and pecan goodness.
• Reheating Tips: Warm refrigerated cake slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds on medium power. For frozen slices, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating to maintain the cake's soft, moist texture.
• Room Temperature Option: Let refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance its original flavor and softness.

What Pairs Well With Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

• Brew Bold Coffee Companions: Serve this rich, caramel-laden cake with a strong espresso or dark roast coffee to complement its deep, sweet flavors. The robust coffee cuts through the cake's sweetness, creating a perfect balance of bitter and sweet.
• Pour Warming Whiskey Notes: Pair the cake with a smooth bourbon or cinnamon-infused whiskey to enhance the dessert's warm, nutty undertones. The subtle alcohol warmth beautifully accentuates the caramel and pecan elements.
• Scoop Creamy Vanilla Delight: Top the cake with a generous dollop of vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream. The cool, creamy texture provides a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced cake, creating a luxurious dessert experience.
• Sip Spiced Chai Elegance: Enjoy a comforting chai tea alongside the cake, where the tea's aromatic spices like cardamom and ginger will dance harmoniously with the cake's cinnamon and caramel notes.

Tasty Spins On Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

• Nutty Maple Magic: Swap pecans with toasted walnuts and replace heavy cream with pure maple syrup for a rich, woodsy flavor profile that enhances the cake's warmth.
• Tropical Caramel Crunch: Incorporate chopped macadamia nuts and add a splash of coconut extract to transform the traditional recipe into a Hawaiian-inspired dessert with tropical undertones.
• Spiced Apple Caramel Fusion: Mix diced fresh apples into the caramel layer and sprinkle additional ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy, autumn-inspired cake that celebrates seasonal flavors.
• Dark Chocolate Decadence: Fold melted dark chocolate into the batter and garnish with chocolate-covered pecans to create an indulgent, sophisticated version of the classic upside-down cake.

Your FAQs About Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon

• Why use buttermilk in this cake recipe?

Buttermilk adds moisture and creates a tender, soft crumb by reacting with baking soda, which helps the cake rise and become lighter in texture.

• Can I substitute pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts work wonderfully as a similar alternative. They have a comparable texture and nutty flavor that complements the caramel perfectly.

• How do I know if my caramel is cooked correctly?

Look for a smooth, bubbly consistency and a rich golden-brown color. When the mixture is stirred, it should coat the back of a spoon without looking grainy or separated.

• What makes this cake special compared to other desserts?

The upside-down technique allows the caramel and pecans to create a stunning, gooey topping that gives the cake a professional bakery-style presentation with minimal extra effort.

Caramel Pecan Upside-Down Cake With Cinnamon Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Indulgent caramel pecan upside-down cake with cinnamon brings Southern comfort to dessert tables with rich, gooey layers of sweet nostalgia. Warm spices and golden caramel invite guests to savor each luxurious, buttery bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (180g) pecan halves
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter (for topping)
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened (for cake)

Sweeteners:

• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed (for topping)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, packed (for cake)

Liquid and Flavor Enhancers:

• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Craft a luscious caramel foundation by melting butter in a saucepan, then incorporating brown sugar and heavy cream. Whisk until the mixture transforms into a silky, bubbling caramel. Pour this golden elixir into a greased cake pan, creating an inviting base layer.
2. Strategically arrange pecan halves across the caramel surface, ensuring an elegant, even distribution that will become the cake’s crowning glory when inverted.
3. Activate the oven to 350F (175C), preparing a warm environment for the upcoming culinary creation.
4. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl, creating a harmonious dry ingredient blend.
5. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes light and voluminous, signaling proper aeration.
6. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter-sugar mixture, followed by a splash of vanilla extract, blending until smooth and cohesive.
7. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix gently to maintain the batter’s delicate structure, stopping just as ingredients are combined.
8. Delicately spoon the batter over the pecan-caramel base, smoothing the surface with a spatula to ensure an even distribution.
9. Slide the cake pan into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick emerges clean from its center.
10. Remove from the oven and let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, allowing initial cooling and caramel setting.
11. Trace the cake’s edges with a knife to loosen, then confidently invert onto a serving plate, revealing the glistening pecan topping.
12. Allow the cake to cool completely, letting the flavors meld and the caramel to set before serving this decadent dessert.

Notes

• Swap pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for different flavor profiles and texture variations.
• Reduce sugar content by using coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-glycemic option.
• Create a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain cake’s soft structure.
• Prevent caramel from burning by using medium-low heat and stirring constantly during preparation to achieve smooth, golden consistency.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg