Pumpkin Upside Down Cake – Moist, Sweet & Spiced

This Pumpkin Upside Down Cake is a cozy fall dessert that’s moist, sweet, and perfectly spiced. Tender pumpkin slices caramelized with brown sugar and butter sit on top of a fluffy pumpkin cake, creating a stunning dessert for holidays or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet caramelized pumpkin topping with buttery flavor.
• Moist, tender cake spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Perfect for fall, Thanksgiving, or special occasions.
• Simple to make but looks impressive on the table.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 cups peeled and sliced pumpkin (or 1½ cups canned pumpkin slices)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Pour melted butter into the pan and sprinkle evenly with brown sugar. Arrange pumpkin slices on top.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
4. In a large bowl, mix sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
5. Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter over the arranged pumpkin slices, spreading evenly.
7. Bake 35–40 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cake cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Pumpkin options: Fresh pumpkin gives best texture, but canned pumpkin slices work too.
• Extra caramel flavor: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the pumpkin before adding batter.
• Spice it up: Add ginger or allspice for a deeper flavor.
• Serving suggestion: Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
• Reheat: Warm slices in the oven or microwave for 30–60 seconds.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Serve alongside coffee or chai tea for a cozy dessert experience.
• Add a drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of slices?

Yes, reduce moisture by draining excess liquid and layering it evenly before adding batter.

How do I prevent sticking when inverting?

Grease the pan well and allow cake to cool slightly before inverting.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Bake the cake, cover, and store at room temperature or refrigerate.

Ready to Make It?

This Pumpkin Upside Down Cake is a cozy, flavorful fall dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Moist cake, spiced pumpkin, and caramelized topping make it the perfect centerpiece for any autumn gathering. Pin it now for your next holiday or weekend treat!

You Might Also Like

• Pumpkin Lush – Creamy and decadent.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte – Warm and cozy drink.
• Pumpkin Whipped Cottage Cheese – Light and fluffy.
• Pumpkin Pie Stuffed Baked Apples – Sweet and soft.

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