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
1 box yellow cake mix (432 g)
1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (96 g)
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
1 cup light brown sugar
1½ cups pecan halves
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt or 9×9-inch pan well. Line square pans with parchment for easy release.
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, and water. Beat on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
Pour melted butter into the pan, spreading evenly to coat the bottom. Sprinkle brown sugar over the butter.
Arrange pecan halves over the sugar layer in a decorative pattern.
Gently pour cake batter over the pecans, spreading evenly.
Bake 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool for 10–15 minutes, then invert carefully onto a serving plate. Tap pan gently to release the pecan topping.
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