Irresistible Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Name: Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced; 1 cup light brown sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Recipe By:

Alison Shear

Posted:

June 19, 2025

Updated:

June 19, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s a certain magic that happens when you flip a cake upside down and unveil a glorious layer of caramelized apples. The moment you slice into this Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, the sweet aroma wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a crisp autumn day. Imagine sinking your fork into the moist cake, the buttery caramel mingling with the tart apples, creating a flavor explosion that dances across your taste buds. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to Grandma’s kitchen, where every bite is filled with love and nostalgia.

Now, let me share a little secret: this cake isn’t just for special occasions. In fact, I often whip it up on a Tuesday afternoon just because I need a pick-me-up after tackling my laundry mountain—seriously, who knew socks could multiply like rabbits? Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an unexpected visit from friends, this Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake never fails to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to bake something truly delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers.
The rich flavors of caramel and apple complement each other beautifully.
With its stunning presentation, it’s sure to wow your guests at any gathering.
Perfectly versatile—enjoy it as dessert or even breakfast with coffee!

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Apples: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
Brown Sugar: Opt for light brown sugar; it adds depth to the caramel flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your cake while ensuring maximum richness.
All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour works best for achieving the right texture—fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Baking Powder: Don’t skip on baking powder; it’s essential for giving your cake that lovely lift.
Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind everything together and keep your cake moist and tender.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates all the flavors; trust me, it’s worth it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

How to Make Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it warms up, grease a round cake pan with nonstick spray or butter—no one likes a sticky situation!

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core your apples before slicing them into thin wedges. Toss them in cinnamon and set aside while we work on that delightful caramel sauce.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together butter and brown sugar until it becomes bubbly and smooth—this should take about two minutes. Pour this decadent mixture into your prepared cake pan.

Step 4: Arrange the Apples

Carefully place those lovely apple slices into the caramel mixture in a beautiful pattern. Go ahead; channel your inner artist!

Step 5: Mix Your Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat together eggs and sugar until fluffy. Gradually add in flour, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter over the apples in the pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Once baked, let cool for about five minutes before flipping onto a plate—the anticipation is half the fun! Transfer to plates and serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an unforgettable treat!

With this recipe tucked under your belt, you’ll be ready to wow family and friends with minimal effort but maximum impact. Just remember: each slice is not just dessert; it’s happiness served on a plate!

You Must Know

This delightful Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Its gooey caramel and tender apple slices create a crowd-pleasing combination that will have your guests begging for seconds.
Plus, it’s a cinch to whip up, making it ideal for busy bakers.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the caramel first, allowing it to cool slightly before arranging the apple slices. While it sets, mix your cake batter. This sequence ensures a seamless assembly and perfect caramel distribution when you flip the cake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp or add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the caramel for an extra flavor kick. You could also experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, ensuring you enjoy that warm, gooey goodness all over again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh apples for the best flavor and texture; they hold up well during baking.
Don’t rush the caramel; let it bubble until golden for maximum richness.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before flipping to prevent sticking and ensure a clean release.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about that one family gathering where this Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake stole the show—my uncle’s face lit up like a kid on Christmas morning!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

To make a delicious Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, you will need several key ingredients. Start with apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold their shape well. For the caramel topping, gather brown sugar, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. The cake batter requires all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, eggs, and milk. You can also add cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. This combination will create a rich and flavorful dessert that is sure to impress.

How long does it take to bake Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

Baking a Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake typically takes about 45 to 50 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before placing the cake inside. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when fully baked. Additionally, allow the cake to cool in the pan for around 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter. This helps ensure that the caramel topping stays intact.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake recipe?

Yes, you can make some substitutions in your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake recipe if necessary. For instance, if you prefer a gluten-free option, use almond or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. If you want a dairy-free version, opt for plant-based milk and vegan butter. Keep in mind that these changes may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your cake.

How should I store leftover Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

To properly store leftover Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, first ensure that it has cooled completely after baking. Place any leftovers in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Store the cake at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it for up to five days if you prefer a chilled treat. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving if desired.

Conclusion for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake :

In summary, making a Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that yields a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like apples and caramel combined into a moist cake batter, this recipe is both delicious and visually appealing. Remember to allow proper cooling time before serving to achieve the best results. Enjoy this treat with friends and family or savor it on your own—it’s sure to become a favorite!

0 Shares