Picture this: a warm slice of apple upside down cake, its delightful caramelized layer sitting gloriously atop, filled with tender spiced apples. Not only will your taste buds thank you, but the aroma will invite everyone around to have a slice, making it the must-have dessert for every occasion. The combination of rich flavors and smooth textures makes it truly irresistible. Let’s explore its charm and embrace a deliciously sweet corner of baking that is perfect for fall gatherings and cozy family dinners.
One of my fondest memories as a child involves watching my grandmother cook up this delicious dessert. The entire house would fill with the comforting scent of cinnamon and apples, drawing me eagerly to the kitchen. She always believed that an apple upside down cake was the perfect way to welcome the changing seasons, and I couldn’t agree more. Every time I bake this cake, I am reminded of those cherished moments spent with her, learning the art of baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and stunning results. The upside down technique ensures that the apples are perfectly caramelized, providing a beautifully glossy finish that impresses every guest. It’s a versatile dessert, equally suitable for a casual weeknight or an elegant dinner party. Better yet, it can be easily adapted to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences, making it a flexible favorite for any household.
Ingredients Notes
- Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smiths for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for added sweetness.
- Sugars: A blend of brown sugar and granulated sugar adds complexity to the caramelization.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the autumnal flavors; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted to better control the flavors, but salted can work in a pinch.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan and set aside. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped.
Step 2
In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat until it bubbles gently. Pour this mixture into the prepared cake pan, making sure it coats the bottom evenly.
Step 3
Arrange the apple slices in a neat circular pattern atop the caramel layer. This will become the beautiful top of your cake, so take your time to make it look good.
Step 4
For the cake batter, mix flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, spices, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth, then pour over the apples.
Step 5
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate. The reveal is the best part!
Storage Options
To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it briefly in the oven.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, replace half the flour with whole wheat flour, or use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a deeper flavor. This recipe is naturally dairy-free if you substitute the butter with coconut oil. You can also add raisins or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s ideal for a cozy brunch or a festive holiday dessert table. Serve warm with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect end to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, you can easily substitute pears or peaches to create a delightful seasonal variation. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and spice quantities to balance the flavors with your chosen fruit.
What type of pan is best for this recipe? A round cake pan works best due to its even cooking and presentation. Ensure it’s at least 2 inches deep to accommodate the layers. A cast-iron skillet can also be a fun alternative that adds rustic appeal.
Do I need to peel the apples? Peeling the apples is recommended for the best texture, as some skins can become tough during baking. However, if you prefer a more rustic appearance or added fiber, you can leave the skins on.
Apple Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 medium apples peeled, cored and sliced
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup milk room temperature
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and brown sugar over low heat until combined. Pour the mixture into the cake pan and arrange the apple slices on top.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, and mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined and pour batter over apple layer.
- Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm.
