Description
Pecan Upside Down Cake is a gooey, golden holiday dessert made with yellow cake mix, pudding mix, and caramelized pecans. This Southern-inspired treat flips into a glossy, nutty crown that looks bakery-perfect yet takes minimal effort—perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
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1 box yellow cake mix (432 g)
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1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (96 g)
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3 large eggs
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½ cup vegetable oil
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1 cup water
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½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
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1 cup light brown sugar
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1½ cups pecan halves
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt or 9×9-inch pan well. Line square pans with parchment for easy release.
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In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, and water. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
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Pour melted butter into the pan, spreading evenly to coat the bottom. Sprinkle brown sugar over the butter.
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Arrange pecan halves over the sugar layer in a decorative pattern.
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Gently pour cake batter over the pecans, spreading evenly.
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Bake 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool for 10–15 minutes, then invert carefully onto a serving plate. Tap pan gently to release the pecan topping.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Fresh pecans give the best flavor and texture.
Tent with foil if the cake top browns too quickly.
Add a splash of bourbon to the batter or cinnamon to the sugar for a festive twist.
Best served the day of, but leftovers reheat beautifully.
Works with butter cake mix or spice cake mix too.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American