There is something irresistibly nostalgic and comforting about a Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake. Imagine the tender crumb of yellow cake, a dreamy blanket of gooey homemade caramel, and apples that have melted into juicy, golden perfection. This classic bake turns a simple autumn treat into a show-stopping dessert with just the right amount of sweet decadence and crisp, tart fruitiness. Whether you’re making it for a cozy evening, fall gathering, or just because you’re craving something special, this Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake delivers a warm hug in every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s the familiar ingredients that make this treat shine! Each one brings out either the rich caramel, the bright flavor of the apples, or the soft, moist texture that makes this dessert the ultimate fall (or anytime!) delight.
- Unsalted butter: Essential for both the caramel topping and the cake itself; it adds unbeatable richness and depth.
- Light brown sugar: Provides that classic caramel flavor and sticky texture we all love in an upside down cake.
- Apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Their tartness balances the sweet caramel, and they hold their shape beautifully when baked.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the cake structure and ensures a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Offers essential rise, so the cake is fluffy and not dense.
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy aroma that enhances both the apples and the caramel.
- Salt: Just a touch heightens all the other flavors and balances sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Gives a fine, delicate sweetness to the cake batter itself.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract: Brings an aromatic warmth to both the cake and the caramel.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture for a soft, fluffy crumb.
How to Make Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9-inch round cake pan, grease it well with butter, and line the bottom with parchment paper. This small step guarantees your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake will release beautifully after baking, making for a stunning presentation.
Step 2: Create the Caramel Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then stir in the packed light brown sugar. Keep stirring for about two to three minutes until the mixture gets smooth and wonderfully bubbly. Pour this luscious caramel into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Next, artfully arrange your thinly sliced apples on top, overlapping them just a bit in a pretty circular pattern. This not only looks lovely but ensures every bite has sweet, caramelized apple.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This quick blend ensures the leavening and spice will be evenly distributed throughout your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, giving it the ideal lift and flavor.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until it looks pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light, airy cake, as creaming incorporates air into the batter. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by a splash of vanilla extract to round out the flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
With your mixer on low, alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to your butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix only until just combined to keep the crumb tender; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged apples and caramel in your pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the kitchen smells like heaven.
Step 7: Cool and Invert
Let the cake cool for 10 to 15 minutes in the pan to let the caramel set just enough. Then run a knife around the edge, cover the pan with your serving plate, and flip it over in one confident motion. Lift off the pan and don’t forget to remove the parchment paper. Slice and serve your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake warm or at room temperature—you’ll have everyone swooning!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Garnishes
For a simple yet satisfying finish, dust the cake with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar. If you want to take it up a notch, add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a big dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cool, creamy topping pairs dreamily with the warm, sticky caramel and apples.
Side Dishes
To keep things light and celebratory, serve this cake alongside a cup of hot apple cider or spiced tea. If you’re feeling fancy, a small glass of dessert wine or sparkling cider brings out the flavors of the apples and caramel even more. For brunch, a simple side of fresh berries can be a refreshing complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake into elegant wedges and plate each piece with a twirl of caramel sauce or a drizzle of honey. Individual mini cakes baked in ramekins also make an adorable and personal dessert for dinner parties. If you’re serving a crowd, offer toppings at the table—think toasted pecans, vanilla gelato, or even a salty caramel drizzle for those who love a sweet-salty kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers, keep your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. The caramel will stay soft, and the apples remain tender, although the cake might absorb some extra moisture as it sits (which many people actually love).
Freezing
This cake freezes surprisingly well! Once cooled, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rewarming for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a slice into the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, or warm larger pieces in a low oven (about 300°F) until heated through. This revives the caramel and gives you that freshly-baked cake experience any time the craving hits.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of apples in Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are classics for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use your favorite baking apple or a mix for more complex flavor.
What if I don’t have a round cake pan?
No worries! A square 8×8-inch pan works fine—just keep an eye on the baking time, since thickness can vary. The presentation will be just as inviting.
Does this cake need to be refrigerated?
If you plan to eat it within two days, room temperature is great. For longer storage, refrigerate any leftovers and bring to room temp or rewarm before serving for the best texture.
Can I make Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute a cup-for-cup all-purpose gluten-free flour blend and check that your baking powder is gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply use two pans or a larger rectangular pan and monitor baking time. Everyone deserves a slice (or two) of this cozy treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that brings both wow-factor and homemade comfort to the table, Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is sure to become your new favorite. I can’t wait for you to bake this for friends or family—each bite is pure coziness! Don’t be surprised if people start requesting it on repeat.
Print
Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of this Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake that features a moist, flavorful cake topped with caramelized apples. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Make the topping: Melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan. Stir in brown sugar and cook until smooth. Pour into pan, arrange apple slices over caramel.
- Prepare the cake: Whisk dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk.
- Bake: Pour batter over apples and bake for 40–45 minutes. Cool, invert onto a plate.
Notes
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 33g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
