There’s a certain warmth that fills my kitchen whenever I start making Apple Upside Down Cake. The moment I slice into those sweet Honeycrisp apples, I can practically hear autumn whispering its arrival. Each fragrant piece glistens with melted butter and brown sugar, promising a delightful treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
This cake is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply want to bring a little homemade joy into your weeknight routine, this recipe has you covered. In just over thirty minutes, you can create a heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of comfort food.
Throw out the fast food habits, because this Apple Upside Down Cake will remind you how satisfying and rewarding homemade treats can truly be. Grab your baking pan, and let’s get started on a delicious journey that will have your loved ones coming back for more!
Why is Apple Upside Down Cake a must-try?
Irresistible Appeal: This cake is topped with stunning, caramelized apples, making it a true showstopper for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: You’ll spend just over 30 minutes in the kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful dessert.
Aromatic Bliss: The warm cinnamon and sweet vanilla fill your home with comforting aromas as it bakes, perfect for cozy evenings.
Versatile Treat: Serve it warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated experience that everyone will love.
Perfect for All Occasions: Impress your family or guests alike with a homemade dessert that truly feels special, yet is so easy to make!
Apple Upside Down Cake Ingredients
For the Topping
- Unsalted butter – ¼ cup, to achieve that luscious, buttery base for your sweet apples.
- Light brown sugar – ½ cup, which adds depth of flavor and a beautiful caramelization.
- Honeycrisp apples – 3, their bright flavor and crisp texture are perfect for this enticing cake.
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – 1 ¼ cups, forming the structure of this delicious Apple Upside Down Cake.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup, for that additional sweetness to balance the apples.
- Baking powder – 1 ½ teaspoons, helping your cake rise beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon – ½ teaspoon, the warm spice that pairs perfectly with apple flavors.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon, balancing sweetness and enhancing all the flavors.
- Milk – ¾ cup, making your batter moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter, melted – ¼ cup, adding richness to the batter.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, for a lovely aromatic element.
- Large egg – 1, binding the ingredients together for a wonderful texture.
How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures an even bake, creating a beautifully golden top for your cake.
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Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a 9-inch round cake pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven for a few minutes until the butter is fully melted.
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Sprinkle ½ cup of light brown sugar over the melted butter. This combination will create a delicious caramel base for the sweet apples to sit atop.
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Cut 3 Honeycrisp apples into ¼-inch thick half circles. Arrange them in concentric circles on top of the brown sugar, overlapping slightly for a lovely presentation.
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Whisk together 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a large bowl until well combined.
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Add ¾ cup of milk, the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg to the dry mixture. Whisk until just combined, ensuring a smooth batter.
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Pour the batter over the arranged apple slices, smoothing it from edge to edge as needed to ensure even coverage.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your cake will smell heavenly during this time!
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Cool the cake for a moment. Run a knife around the edge of the pan, then let it cool to room temperature before flipping it onto a serving plate.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Apple Upside Down Cake
- Choose the Right Apples: Use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for the best flavor and texture. Avoid soft or overly ripe apples that won’t hold their shape.
- Watch the Caramelization: Don’t skip the brown sugar step; it creates the sweet caramel base. Adjust the cooking time to ensure a lovely golden color without burning.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the batter, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy Apple Upside Down Cake.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before flipping. This helps maintain the integrity of the apple topping and prevents the cake from breaking apart.
- Garnish for Glamour: Enhance your presentation with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon, elevating this delightful dessert for your guests.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Upside Down Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist and fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer it chilled, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to 5 days. This can intensify the apple flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a warm treat reminiscent of fresh-baked Apple Upside Down Cake.
Apple Upside Down Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your Apple Upside Down Cake uniquely yours!
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans atop the apples for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. The added texture harmonizes beautifully with the soft cake.
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Spice It Up: Introduce a teaspoon of ground ginger or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice twist. This little adjustment can elevate the cake’s warmth and scent, giving it a cozy flair.
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Alternative Sweeteners: Swap out granulated sugar for maple syrup or honey in the batter for a natural sweetness. Be sure to reduce the liquid ingredients slightly, enhancing the cake’s moistness.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter for a cake that everyone can enjoy. Your loved ones won’t even notice the difference!
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Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter or the apples for a refreshing burst of flavor. The citrus notes can brighten this autumn classic, making it more dynamic!
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Different Fruit: Experiment with other fruits, like pears or peaches, for a tantalizing new take on this dish. Their flavors and textures can create delightful variations of taste!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Top the cooled cake with a drizzle of melted chocolate for a decadent finish. The combination of chocolate with caramelized apples is a match made in dessert heaven!
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Caramel Swirl: Swirl some caramel sauce into the batter before baking for an indulgent sweet surprise. This can add an extra layer of gooey sweetness to each slice.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Upside Down Cakes are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the apple topping (up to 24 hours in advance) by melting the butter and mixing in the brown sugar, then layering the apple slices in the cake pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep the apples fresh and prevent browning. You can also mix the batter and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just whisk it again before pouring it over the apples. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the two and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Apple Upside Down Cake?
Indulge in a delightful meal experience by pairing this cake with dishes that enhance its sweet and spicy notes.
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Whipped Cream: Drizzling light, fluffy whipped cream over each slice adds a dreamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the warm cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the cake’s warm embrace, creating a blissful harmony of flavors and temperatures.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serving spiced apple cider brings out the apple essence in the cake, making for a truly festive and nostalgic treat. As this fragrant drink warms your hands, it elevates the entire experience of enjoying the cake.
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Roasted Nuts: A sprinkle of roasted pecans or walnuts adds a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the softness of the cake. Their toasty flavor enhances the comforting profile of the dessert.
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Homemade Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of homemade caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness, making every bite luxurious and indulgent. This enhances the cake’s appeal for sweet tooth lovers.
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Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, adds a tart brightness that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, refreshing the palate. Their vibrant color also adds visual appeal!
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Coffee or Espresso: Pairing with a rich cup of coffee or espresso balances the sweetness of the cake, showcasing its intricate flavors. The slight bitterness from the coffee creates a delightful contrast.
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Hazelnut Praline: For a touch of elegance, serve the cake with crunchy hazelnut praline. Its flavor intensifies the cake’s nutty notes while providing a bit of luxury that will impress your guests.
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Chai Tea: Offering a warm cup of chai tea with its spicy notes complements the cinnamon in the cake, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing.
Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for Apple Upside Down Cake?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I highly recommend using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples. These varieties have a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, along with a sturdy texture that holds up beautifully during baking. Avoid using overly ripe apples, as they may turn mushy and impact the overall texture of your cake.
What’s the best way to store leftover Apple Upside Down Cake?
You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days if it’s covered with plastic wrap, keeping it moist and fresh. If you prefer it chilled and want to enhance the apple flavors, wrap it in plastic and place it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to take it out about 30 minutes before serving, so it’s not too cold.
Can I freeze Apple Upside Down Cake? If so, how?
Yes, of course! Freezing is a great option if you want to keep it longer. Allow the cake to cool completely first. Then, slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection. Place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move a slice to the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Very common! If your cake sinks, it could be due to underbaking or inserting too much wet batter into the pan. Always check your cake with a toothpick about 30 minutes into baking. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Also, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately; using too much liquid can result in a dense cake.
Is this Apple Upside Down Cake suitable for people with allergies?
While this recipe contains common allergens like eggs and dairy, you can make substitutions to cater to different dietary needs. Consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and almond or soy milk instead of dairy milk for a vegan option. Always be cautious about cross-contamination and check your ingredients thoroughly to keep your loved ones safe!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Apple Upside Down Cake?
If you want to elevate this dessert, you could add a teaspoon of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon for a warm spice flavor. A splash of fresh lemon juice over the apples before adding them to the cake can also brighten up the sweetness beautifully. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
These Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe FAQs should help guide you through any questions you may encounter while baking this delightful dessert!
Delicious Apple Upside Down Cake That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of light brown sugar over the melted butter.
- Cut 3 Honeycrisp apples into ¼-inch thick half circles and arrange them on top of the brown sugar.
- Whisk together 1 ¼ cups of flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Add ¾ cup milk, remaining ¼ cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 large egg to the dry mixture and whisk until just combined.
- Pour the batter over the apple slices.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cake and run a knife around the edge before flipping onto a serving plate.