Alice'S Upside-Down Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A decadent upside-down cake featuring coconut, pecans, and a rich German chocolate flavor, topped with a creamy cream cheese layer—perfect for special occasions or indulgent desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 box German chocolate cake mix
  • 1 stick (8 oz) butter
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 pound powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix coconut and chopped pecans and spread evenly in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
  2. Prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to package directions and pour over the coconut and pecans in the pan.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter with the softened cream cheese; heat until it is soft enough to whip in the powdered sugar.
  4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
  6. Cool thoroughly before cutting and serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cake batter. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. To ensure even baking, make sure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing with the powdered sugar. This cake is similar in spirit to a Jezebel Cake, so feel free to experiment with spices or toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful cake warm or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside a slice of Lemon Truffle Pie for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the cake's texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Alice'S Upside-Down Cake contains roughly 644 calories, with 3g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

644 kcal 32% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 54.7g 70% DV
Carbs 37.9g 14% DV
Fiber 5.3g 19% DV
Sugar 27.9g 56% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 141.4mg 6% DV
Potassium 143.1mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 140.5mg 47% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 28.9mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 44.9mg 3% DV
Iron 1.5mg 9% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just ensure it is completely cooled before covering it with plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. This will help the flavors meld together. However, it's best to add any toppings just before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of German chocolate cake mix?

If you prefer homemade, you can create your own chocolate cake batter by mixing all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Adjust the liquid and oil to match your mix's instructions. This allows for customization, similar to how variations are made in American recipes.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. If the top appears to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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