If you’re craving a cake that offers both rich, buttery flavors and a delightful crunch, this Pecan Crumb Upside Down Cake is sure to satisfy. This cake combines a moist banana-flavored base with a sweet, crunchy pecan topping and a hint of cinnamon. The addition of a maple glaze and a soft crumb layer elevates this dessert to a whole new level. It’s perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent.

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The History Behind the Ingredients  

The concept of upside-down cakes can be traced back centuries, where cakes were baked in cast iron skillets, with fruit at the bottom and batter on top. When inverted after baking, the fruit would become the topping, beautifully caramelized. In this version, the bananas in the cake batter and the pecan topping give a nod to traditional Southern desserts, where pecans are often used in pies and cakes. The pecan tree is native to North America, and its buttery, sweet flavor has been a staple in Southern cooking for generations. Combined with the rich taste of cinnamon and maple syrup, this cake brings together classic American flavors in one irresistible dessert.

Why Pecan Crumb Upside Down Cake Stands Out  

This cake stands out because it merges multiple textures and flavors into one delightful bite. The moist banana cake base is enriched with cinnamon and vanilla, creating a warm, comforting flavor. On top, you have a crunchy pecan layer sweetened with dark brown sugar and maple syrup, offering both sweetness and texture. The crumb topping, made with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, adds yet another layer of flavor that perfectly complements the tender cake beneath it. The combination of moist cake, crumbly topping, and crunchy pecans makes this a truly special dessert.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):  

• Calories: 420 kcal  
• Fat: 23g  
• Carbohydrates: 52g  
• Protein: 5g  
• Sugar: 32g

Serving Suggestions: 

This cake is best served slightly warm, allowing the pecan topping to retain its crunch while the cake remains soft and moist. A drizzle of additional maple syrup or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance its flavors even further. It’s an ideal dessert for a cozy evening or paired with a cup of coffee for an afternoon treat.

Storage Information:  

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. This cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently before serving.

Fun Fact:  

Did you know that pecans are one of the only tree nuts native to North America? They’ve been enjoyed for thousands of years, with Native American tribes harvesting wild pecans long before European settlers arrived. In fact, the word “pecan” is derived from the Algonquin word “pacane,” which refers to nuts that require a stone to crack open. Today, pecans are celebrated not only for their rich flavor but also for their health benefits, as they are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats. Pecan pie, perhaps the most famous pecan-based dessert, has been a staple at Southern holiday tables since the late 19th century, but they also feature prominently in cookies, cakes, and even savory dishes.

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Pecan Crumb Upside Down Cake Recipe

Ingredients for the Crumb:  

• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened 
• ¾ cup flour  
• 1½ cups light brown sugar  
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Ingredients for the Pecan Topping:  

• 1¼ cups chopped pecans  
• ½ cup dark brown sugar  
• ½ tbsp cinnamon  
• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted  
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Ingredients for the Cake:  

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed  
• 2 cups all-purpose flour  
• 3 tsp baking powder  
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon  
• ½ tsp salt  
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened  
• 1 cup granulated sugar  
• 2 large eggs, room temperature  
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract  
• 1 cup buttermilk or whole milk
• Ingredients for the Icing:  
• ½ cup powdered sugar  
• 2 tbsp maple syrup  
• 1 tbsp milk

Photo bySara CerveraonUnsplash

Instructions for the Cake:  

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Make the pecan topping:  

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and maple syrup. Spread the pecan mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the crumb:  

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly, then set aside.

Prepare the cake batter:  

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.  

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.  

Pour the cake batter evenly over the pecan topping in the baking dish.

Add the crumb layer:  

Sprinkle the prepared crumb mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter.

Bake:  

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter. Let cool completely before drizzling with icing.

Make the icing:  

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cake before serving.

Optional Variations:  

For an extra indulgent version, add chocolate chips or toffee bits to the pecan topping.  

Swap out the bananas for applesauce or grated zucchini for a different twist on the flavor.

This Pecan Crumb Upside Down Cake is the perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, and moist. Whether you serve it as a holiday dessert or a weekend indulgence, it’s sure to impress with its layers of flavor and texture.