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Apple Upside Down Cake
Apple Upside Down Cake is a delicious dessert with tender apples and a sweet, caramelized topping. It’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion!
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Apple Upside Down cake is the perfect sweet treat for any occasion! With tender apples and a caramelized topping, this cake will melt in your mouth. It’s quick to whip up and bakes to golden perfection every time. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for an irresistible dessert everyone will love!
This recipe is easy to make by following the guide below. We include step-by-step photos and directions, pro tips and tricks, plus answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you bake the perfect cake every time.
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This upside down apple cake takes only fifteen minutes to prep, making it perfect for any party or potluck! The caramelized apple topping combined with a fluffy cake creates a mouthwatering dessert everyone will crave. It’s a showstopper for special occasions, and the warm, gooey apples will have your guests asking for seconds. Try this easy recipe at home for a delicious treat that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Apple Upside Down Cake recipe:
For The Apple Layer:
- ⅓ cup of white sugar
- ⅓ cup of butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon of cinnamon
- 2 to 3 Honey Crisp apples, peeled and cored, cut into ¼-inch slices
Pro Tip
To keep the apple slices from browning while you are peeling, cutting, and slicing the rest of the apples, you can place the sliced apples in a little salt water (½ teaspoon salt to 2 cups of water). Let them soak for about 5 to 10 minutes and then dab the excess water off. They will stay crisp!
For The Cake Layer:
- ½ cup of softened butter, room temperature
- ¼ cup of brown sugar
- ½ cup of white sugar
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- ½ cup of milk
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons of baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize this easy Apple Upside Down Cake recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your cake uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Add Nuts: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and texture in your cake.
Substitute Apples: Use pears or peaches for a different fruit flavor in your upside-down cake.
Substitute Brown Sugar: Swap with coconut sugar or maple syrup to add a natural sweetness to your cake.
Add Cinnamon: Sprinkle extra cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a spiced, warm flavor.
How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake
Pro Tip
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started baking this delicious upside-down apple cake! You’ll love how easy it is to make.
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Prepare a 9 inch round cake pan by spraying the bottom with nonstick spray, then lining the bottom with a 9 inch circle of parchment paper and spraying again.
SECOND STEP: In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Pour into the prepared pan.
THIRD STEP: Layer sliced apples on top of the batter by starting with making a circle on the outside and working your way in.
FOURTH STEP: In a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Then beat in the egg.
FIFTH STEP: Add vanilla extract and milk and mix until combined.
SIXTH STEP: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
SEVENTH STEP: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.
EIGHTH STEP: Pour the cake batter on top of the apple layer and spread it evenly.
NINTH STEP: Bake for forty minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool for a few minutes.
When you can touch the pan, run a knife along all the edges of the cake to help loosen it.
Place your serving plate on top of the cake pan and flip it over onto a serving plate.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your cake as the suggested baking time approaches.
How To Serve Apple Upside Down Cake
This apple upside-down apple recipe is versatile and perfect for so many occasions. Whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive event, this cake always shines. Here are some fun ways to serve it:
- Family Dinners: This cake is a hit with both kids and adults! Its sweet, caramelized apples make it the perfect comfort food dessert. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
- Fall Gatherings: Upside-down apple cake is ideal for fall celebrations like Thanksgiving or Halloween. The warm apple flavor and caramelized topping are perfect for cooler weather. Serve it alongside spiced cider or pumpkin pie for a complete fall dessert spread.
- Special Occasions: Bring this cake to a birthday party or holiday dinner for a showstopping dessert. Its beautiful presentation and rich flavors make it a favorite for celebrations. Complement it with homemade caramel sauce or a cheese plate for a well-rounded dessert table.
Why You'll Love This Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Homemade Apple Upside-Down Cake with cake mix is more than just a dessert—it's a beloved favorite for many tasty reasons:
- A Perfect Balance of Flavors: This recipe combines the tender, fluffy cake with the sweet, caramelized apples for a perfect flavor blend. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
- A Cozy Comfort Dessert: Upside-down apple cake brings the warm, inviting flavors of fall to any table. It’s a nostalgic favorite, reminding many of cozy evenings with family or festive holiday gatherings.
- Quick, Easy, and Delicious: Not only is this cake quick to make, but the easy-to-follow instructions also ensure it comes out perfect every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe guarantees a sweet success.
Apple Turnover Cake isn’t just delicious—it’s a comforting, classic dessert that brings joy to every occasion!
Recipe FAQ
Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?
Yes, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honey Crisp work best. They hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
How do I prevent the caramel topping from sticking to the pan?
Grease your pan well and use parchment paper. This helps the caramelized apples release easily without sticking.
How long should I let the cake cool before flipping it?
Let the cake cool for ten to fifteen minutes before flipping. This prevents it from falling apart when turned over.
Can I make this upside-down apple cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a day ahead and store it at room temperature, covered, to keep it fresh.
Serving FAQ
How should I serve upside-down apple cake?
Serve it warm with the caramelized apple side up. The soft apples and syrupy topping create a delicious presentation.
Is upside-down apple cake better served warm or cold?
Upside-down apple cake tastes best served warm. The caramel topping melts, making every bite even more irresistible.
Can I add a topping when serving this cake?
Yes! A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and texture to each slice.
What size slices should I serve?
Cut the cake into eight to ten slices for perfect portion sizes, ensuring everyone gets a good helping of apples and cake.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Upside-Down Apple Cake. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got all the details covered to keep your cake fresh and delicious!
Can I make upside-down apple cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature, covered, until ready to serve.
What's the best way to store leftover upside-down apple cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake.
Is it possible to freeze upside-down apple cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
How do I reheat upside-down apple cake?
Reheat slices in the microwave for twenty to thirty seconds or in the oven at 350°F for ten minutes until warmed through.
Apple Upside Down Cake
Apple Upside Down Cake is a delicious dessert with tender apples and a sweet, caramelized topping. It’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
Apple Layer
- ⅓ cup white sugar
- ⅓ cup butter (melted)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 to 3 Honeycrisp apples (peeled and cored, cut into ¼-inch slices)
Cake Layer
- ½ cup softened butter (room temperature)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS
- Prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by spraying the bottom with nonstick spray, then lining the bottom with a 9-inch circle of parchment paper and spraying again.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Pour into the prepared pan.
- Layer sliced apples on top of the batter by starting with making a circle on the outside and working your way in.
- In a large bowl, using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Then beat in the egg.
- Add vanilla extract and milk and mix until combined.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.
- Pour the cake batter on top of the apple layer and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes. When you can touch the pan, run a knife along all the edges to help loosen the cake. Place your serving platter on top of the cake pan and flip it over onto the platter.
Notes
- To keep the apple slices from browning while you are peeling, cutting, and slicing the rest of the apples, you can place the sliced apples in a little salt water (½ teaspoon salt to 2 cups of water). Let them soak for about 5 to 10 minutes and then dab the excess water off. They will stay crisp!
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your cake as the suggested baking time approaches.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 167mg | Potassium: 206mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 34g | Vitamin A: 340IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 86mg | Iron: 1mg
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