This Apple Upside Down Cake is a warm and delightful dessert that features tender apples caramelized under a soft, fluffy cake. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up. Just bake, flip, and enjoy! Don’t be surprised if it’s gone in a flash—everyone will want a slice! 🍏🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. Honeycrisp is also great for a sweeter taste. If you’re in a pinch, any firm apples work, including Fuji or Braeburn.
Butter: Since we’re using butter for both the caramel and cake, unsalted is best for controlling the saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds more richness, but light brown works too. If you need a healthier option, coconut sugar can be a nice substitute, although it will change the flavor slightly.
Milk: Whole milk is perfect for moisture, but you can substitute with any plant-based milk. Almond or oat milk fit well here!
How Do You Get the Apples to Caramelize Perfectly?
Caramelizing the apples is key for a delicious flavor! To do this well, start by melting butter in your saucepan and mixing in brown sugar and cinnamon. It’s essential to cook on medium heat until it becomes smooth and bubbly.
- Pour this sweet mixture into your cake pan.
- Neatly layer your sliced apples over the caramel; a fancy arrangement makes the final cake look stunning!
- Don’t rush this step; letting the mixture cook slowly enhances the caramelization.
How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Topping:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Apple Upside Down Cake will take about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 40-50 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll want to let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving, making the total time around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a 9-inch round cake pan, grease it well with butter, and then lightly flour it. This will help ensure the cake releases smoothly when you flip it out.
2. Make the Caramel Topping:
In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, if using. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved completely and everything is smooth and caramel-like. This should only take a few minutes! Pour this sweet and sticky mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared cake pan.
3. Layer the Apples:
Now, take your sliced apples and arrange them in a beautiful pattern right on top of the caramel. You can overlap them for a nice effect—it’s your creation, so let your creativity shine!
4. Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt—this is your dry mixture. In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this to make it easier!
5. Add the Eggs & Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one by one, making sure to mix well in between. After that, stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely flavor.
6. Combine the Mixtures:
Next, alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture. Start with a bit of flour, then some milk, and continue this until everything is combined—make sure not to overmix; just blend until the flour is incorporated.
7. Assemble the Cake:
Spoon your cake batter over the arranged apples in the pan, spreading it evenly. It’s okay if some apples peek through; they’ll be covered once you bake the cake!
8. Bake:
Place the cake in your preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as ovens may vary!
9. Cool and Invert:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake. Place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and quickly flip it over—this is where all the caramel goodness will ooze down the sides!
10. Serve:
Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy this deliciously moist Apple Upside Down Cake while it’s warm or let it cool to room temperature. Either way, it’s a delightful treat!
Happy baking! 🍏🍰
Can I Use Different Types of Apples in This Cake?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use any firm apple variety. Fuji, Braeburn, or even a combination can work well in this recipe!
What Should I Do If I’m Allergic to Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit until thickened). The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
To store leftovers, wrap the Apple Upside Down Cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for about a week. Just reheat in the microwave or enjoy it cold!
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely after baking, then store it covered in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven before serving for that fresh-baked taste.