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Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

4.5 from 143 reviews

This Apple Upside Down Cake features caramelized apples atop a moist and fluffy cake base, enriched with warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors. Perfect for a cozy dessert, it balances tart apple slices with sweet, buttery caramel for a stunning presentation and irresistible taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Essential Ingredients:

  • 3 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced into thin wedges
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk

Suggested Substitutions:

  • Apples: pears or peaches
  • Butter: coconut oil (for dairy-free)
  • Granulated sugar: honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice 3 medium apples into thin wedges to ensure even cooking and a beautiful final presentation.
  2. Make the Caramel Base: In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Pour this caramel mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan.
  3. Arrange the Apples: Layer the sliced apples over the caramel in a circular, decorative pattern to create an attractive top once inverted.
  4. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In a separate bowl, cream 1 cup granulated sugar with 2 large eggs until light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 cup milk to the wet mixture and mix well. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Combine and Bake: Pour the batter gently and evenly over the arranged apples in the cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel and apples to drizzle over the top. Serve warm for the best flavor and aroma experience.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil.
  • You can use pears or peaches instead of apples for a different twist.
  • Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener option.
  • Ensure apples are sliced uniformly to promote even cooking.
  • Allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting to prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan.

Keywords: apple upside down cake, caramel apple cake, cinnamon apple dessert, baked apple cake, easy apple dessert