PECAN UPSIDE DOWN BUNDT CAKE

Pecan Upside Down Bundt Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines a moist, buttery cake with a rich, caramelized pecan topping. The pecans and caramel sauce are baked at the bottom of the Bundt pan, then inverted after baking to create a gorgeous, glossy topping. Here’s how you can make this delicious cake!

Ingredients:

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toasted, if preferred for more flavor)

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream (or full-fat yogurt)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for extra texture inside the cake)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Topping

1. Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the Brown Sugar and Cream: Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and becomes a smooth caramel sauce.
3. Add the Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans, then pour the mixture into the bottom of a greased 10-inch Bundt pan. Spread it out evenly across the bottom. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan, or use non-stick spray with flour.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Adding the Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in the Pecans (Optional): If using additional chopped pecans for the inside of the cake, fold them in gently with a spatula.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the Batter: Carefully spoon the cake batter over the pecan topping in the Bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to even it out.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and firm to the touch.
3. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake.

Step 4: Invert the Cake

1. Invert the Cake: Place a large plate or platter over the top of the Bundt pan and carefully invert the pan. Gently lift the Bundt pan off, revealing the caramelized pecan topping. If some of the topping sticks to the pan, you can gently scrape it off and place it back onto the cake.
2. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. The topping will set into a beautiful caramelized layer, and the cake will remain moist and tender.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Once the cake has cooled, slice and serve! You can enjoy it as is or pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips:

• Toasting the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the topping or batter enhances their flavor. You can do this by placing them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or by toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat.
• Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature. The flavors actually improve as it sits!
• Optional Glaze: If you prefer an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle the cake with a simple powdered sugar glaze (made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla) once it has cooled.

This Pecan Upside Down Bundt Cake is a delightful combination of caramelized pecans, buttery cake, and rich flavors—a perfect treat for any special occasion or a cozy gathering! Enjoy!