Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting and delightful about a classic Apple Upside Down Cake that makes it shine at any gathering or cozy afternoon. This luscious cake combines the warm, tender sweetness of baked apple slices with a rich caramel sauce, all sitting on a moist, lightly spiced cake that embraces the unmistakable flavors of fall. The magic is in its simple yet indulgent layering, where juicy apples caramelize beautifully and become the star on top once you flip the cake out of its pan. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this Apple Upside Down Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to crafting this irresistible Apple Upside Down Cake, and the beauty here is how straightforward and pantry-friendly they are. Each component plays a crucial role: from the luscious caramel sauce that brings that shiny, sweet glaze to the apples, to the gently spiced cake batter that keeps every bite tender and flavorful.

• Unsalted butter: Essential for creamy richness in the caramel and moist cake texture.
• Brown sugar: Packed with molasses flavor, it sweetens both the caramel and cake for depth.
• Heavy cream: Adds velvety smoothness to the caramel sauce making it indulgently luscious.
• Baking apple: Choosing a firm variety ensures slices hold shape and become perfectly tender.
• Unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the cake moist naturally and enhances the apple theme.
• Egg: Binds all the ingredients and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and subtle sweetness for aromatic complexity.
• All-purpose flour: The structure of the cake, providing that perfect balance between soft and sturdy.
• Apple pie spice or cinnamon: The signature spice blend that elevates every bite with cozy flavor.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that ensure your cake rises beautifully and stays light.
• Salt: A pinch lifts all the flavors and balances sweetness.

How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

Begin by melting together butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream over medium heat in a small pot. Stir constantly as the mixture comes together and then allow it to boil gently for a minute to thicken it slightly. This luscious caramel sauce is the golden glaze that will coat the apple slices and create that signature shiny, sweet topping when your cake is flipped out of the pan.

Step 2: Arrange the Apples and Caramel

Once your caramel sauce is ready, lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan or pie plate. Pour half of the caramel sauce evenly across the bottom, creating a sweet base. Next, arrange peeled, thinly sliced baking apple in a single layer on top of the caramel, making sure to cover the bottom completely. The apples will soften and soak up the caramel’s flavor during baking, turning beautifully tender and glossy.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the applesauce, egg, and vanilla, mixing until fully combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, apple pie spice or cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring gently just until combined. This careful mixing ensures your cake develops a tender crumb while embracing the cozy spice that complements the apples.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Drop the cake batter dollop by dollop over the arranged apple slices and spread carefully to cover evenly. Place a piece of foil underneath the cake pan to catch any drips, then bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. The caramel will bubble and infuse the apples with sweetness as the cake rises above.

Step 5: Invert and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for around 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a large serving plate so the caramel-coated apples are now delightfully displayed on top. The Apple Upside Down Cake is best enjoyed warm, and you can drizzle it with any remaining warm caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence.

How to Serve Apple Upside Down Cake

Garnishes

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the warm, caramelized apples and add a creamy contrast to each bite. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the top adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft cake and sticky caramel.

Side Dishes

This cake is a stand-alone star but also pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot chai tea or spiced apple cider. For a brunch spread, it can be served alongside lightly sweetened yogurt or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the dessert’s sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve individual portions of the Apple Upside Down Cake in ramekins for personalized charm. You can also dust the tops lightly with powdered sugar or add thin ribbons of lemon zest to brighten the sweetness. For gatherings, slice into wedges and arrange on a wooden board with fresh apple slices and caramel drizzles artistically placed around.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Upside Down Cake keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, wrap tightly and refrigerate; it stays moist and flavorful for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.

Freezing

This cake freezes well, making it perfect for preparing ahead. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve its moist, tender texture and luscious caramel topping.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm slices in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit wrapped loosely in foil for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 30 to 45 seconds, but watch carefully to avoid drying out the cake. Serving with a drizzle of warmed caramel sauce refreshes the indulgent flavors wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this Apple Upside Down Cake?

Absolutely! While a firm baking apple like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith is ideal for holding shape during baking, you can experiment with your favorite variety. Just keep in mind softer apples may become more mushy, slightly changing the texture.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, this Apple Upside Down Cake can be adapted by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your leavening agents are also gluten-free and consider adding a bit of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it for better texture.

Can I substitute the unsweetened applesauce with another ingredient?

If you don’t have applesauce on hand, mashed ripe banana or pumpkin puree can be used as natural moisture and sweetness substitutes, though these will add their own flavors. You can also try Greek yogurt for extra moistness with a tangy twist.

What type of pan works best for making Apple Upside Down Cake?

An 8-inch round cake pan or pie plate works perfectly, allowing the caramel and apples to spread evenly. Be sure to grease it well to prevent sticking and make flipping easier. Avoid very large or deep pans as they may affect baking times and cake thickness.

Can I make this Apple Upside Down Cake vegan?

With some adjustments, yes! Use vegan butter and a plant-based cream for the caramel, and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg. The flavor will still be deliciously comforting, though the texture might be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Upside Down Cake feels like a timeless classic that invites you into the cozy embrace of autumn any time of year. Its sweet caramel, tender spiced apples, and soft cake create a harmony you’ll want to revisit again and again. I truly encourage you to try this recipe—it’s simple, satisfying, and a beautiful way to share a little homemade love with family and friends.

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