Description
This Pecan Upside Down Bundt Cake combines the rich flavors of buttery pecans and sweet caramelized topping with a moist vanilla cake base. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for a classic American treat with a delightful twist, this cake features a luscious pecan topping baked beneath a fluffy, tender cake, flipped out after baking to reveal a beautiful glossy nutty layer.
Ingredients
Pecan Topping
- ½ cup (1 stick) melted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup roughly chopped pecans
Cake Batter
- 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 3 tbsp full fat Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your bundt pan thoroughly using butter, vegetable oil, or nonstick spray to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Make the Pecan Topping: Melt the butter in the microwave in 15-second intervals until fully melted. Roughly chop the pecans. In a bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, honey, salt, and chopped pecans, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well mixed.
- Arrange Topping in Pan: Pour the pecan topping mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared bundt pan, spreading it out to cover the surface.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and Greek yogurt. Mix vigorously for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the cake batter evenly over the pecan topping in the bundt pan. Gently tap the pan on the countertop to level the batter, or use a spatula to smooth the surface.
- Place Pan on Sheet Tray: Set the bundt pan on a sheet tray before placing it in the oven. This makes it easy to handle and catches any batter that might overflow during baking.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Alternatively, the internal temperature of the cake should reach 200°F.
- Cool and Rest: Remove the cake from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes to allow the topping to set slightly and make removal easier.
- Remove from Pan: Run an offset spatula or small knife around the edges of the bundt pan to loosen the cake. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate to release the cake, revealing the glossy pecan topping on top. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the moist cake paired with the sweet, nutty pecan topping.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Ensure the bundt pan is well greased to prevent sticking and preserve the design.
- Full fat Greek yogurt adds moisture and richness, but sour cream can be used as a substitute.
- For a more decadent cake, serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American