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Here’s a detailed and unique article for Pecan Upside Down Cake, with a clear step-by-step method:

Pecan Upside Down Cake: A Classic Dessert with a Nutty Twist

If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that combines a buttery cake with caramelized nuts and a rich, golden topping, Pecan Upside Down Cake is a perfect choice. This cake is not only visually stunning when inverted but also delightfully flavorful, with the sweet crunch of pecans contrasting beautifully with a soft, moist cake. Let’s dive into how to make this timeless treat from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup pecan halves

For the Cake:

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¾ cup buttermilk (room temperature)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your cake releases cleanly when inverted.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan, melt the ½ cup butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and cook until it dissolves and begins to bubble gently.
Remove from heat and pour the mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan.
Arrange the pecan halves in a single layer over the sugar mixture. Tip: Place them close together to get a visually appealing, full nut layer on top once the cake is flipped.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the ½ cup butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.