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There’s something truly heartwarming about the smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, especially when life feels just a bit too hectic. When a craving for something cozy and comforting hits, I often turn to my favorite Apple Upside Down Cake. This delightful dessert transforms everyday ingredients into a show-stopping treat that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike. The rich, buttery base mingles perfectly with the sweet, caramelized apples, creating a luscious topping that is hard to resist. As it bakes, your kitchen fills with an aroma that makes it impossible not to sneak a slice straight from the oven.

Whether it’s for a joyous celebration or a casual weeknight dessert, this Apple Upside Down Cake promises to bring warmth and smiles to every gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your dessert dreams come true!

Why is Apple Upside Down Cake so loved?

Irresistibly Sweet: The caramelized apples create a luscious topping that everyone will love.
Effortless Elegance: With just simple ingredients and basic skills, you can impress your guests effortlessly.
Comforting Aroma: The delightful scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills your home, making it irresistibly cozy.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just an afternoon treat, this cake suits any occasion.
Time Saver: Quick prep and bake time mean you’ll have a gorgeous cake ready in just an hour!

Dive into this recipe and see how easy it is to create a moment of joy at your table!

Apple Upside Down Cake Ingredients

To make your baking journey smoother, here’s exactly what you need!

For the Topping
• ¼ cup butter – melted for a rich base to caramelize the apples.
• ½ cup light brown sugar – packed for a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds a warm, comforting flavor that elevates the cake.
• 2 cups sliced apples – use your favorite variety for a deliciously fruity layer.

For the Cake Batter
• 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour – the foundation of your cake; ensure it’s sifted for a fluffy texture.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – to help the cake rise and achieve that dreaminess.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• ½ cup butter, room temperature – for creaming into a light, fluffy batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the cake perfectly without overshadowing the apples.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – brings warmth and a lovely aroma to your cake.
• 2 large eggs – bind the ingredients and provide structure.
• ½ cup whole milk – keeps the batter moist and rich for a tender cake.

Dive into these ingredients to create a delightful Apple Upside Down Cake that will surely impress!

How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for a perfectly baked cake with that golden, crispy top.
Melt ¼ cup of butter in an 8-inch cake pan by placing it in the preheating oven. Allow the butter to melt completely until it’s all liquid.
Whisk together 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix provides the structure for your cake.
Cream ½ cup of room-temperature butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well until everything is well incorporated, and remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl!
Mix in ½ cup of whole milk just until combined. The batter will become smooth and luscious.
Combine your dry ingredients with the wet mixture, beating just until everything is blended together. Scrape down the sides again to get every bit mixed in.
Remove the cake pan from the oven.
Stir together ½ cup of packed light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the melted butter in the pan. Spread this mixture evenly across the bottom it’s the sweet surprise that will greet you when you flip the cake!
Arrange 2 cups of sliced apples onto the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they cover the base nicely.
Spoon the cake batter over the apple mixture, taking care to spread it gently. This will ensure that it sits evenly on the apples.
Bake in the center of the oven for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The aroma will be heavenly!
Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes. Use a butter knife to loosen the sides before carefully turning it out onto a cake plate.
Slice and serve once it has cooled then enjoy the delighted faces of your family and friends!

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Apple Upside Down Cake

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar topping.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until moist. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture.
Perfect Butter Melting: Make sure the butter is fully melted in the pan before adding the brown sugar and cinnamon. This creates a beautiful caramel layer.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before flipping. This helps prevent the topping from sticking and ensures a smooth release for your cake.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your Apple Upside Down Cake is ready to delight!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Upside Down Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the Apple Upside Down Cake to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. It will stay delicious for up to 1 week.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Apple Upside Down Cake!

What to Serve with Apple Upside Down Cake?

The sweet aroma of baked apples and cinnamon invites delightful pairings that elevate any meal into a cozy experience.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a rich, creamy contrast that perfectly complements the cake’s flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy scoop beautifully balances the warm, caramelized apple tones, making for a comforting combination.
Coffee or Tea: The warm spiciness of a freshly brewed coffee or aromatic tea enhances the cozy vibe, ideal for an afternoon treat.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice intensifies sweetness, adding a luxurious touch to every bite.
Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries introduces a pop of tartness that beautifully cuts through the cake’s sweetness, refreshing the palate.
Nutty Crumble Topping: Sprinkling chopped nuts atop each slice adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, offering a satisfying texture contrast.
Fruit Compote: A warm spiced fruit compote adds a touch of elegance and enhances the cake’s fruity goodness, making each slice even more delectable.
Sparkling Water: Serve with lemon or lime-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate, making room for the next sweet bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, coconut whipped cream brings a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.

Each of these delightful pairings adds something special to your homemade Apple Upside Down Cake experience, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels like a warm hug!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Apple Upside Down Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the apple topping and the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, melt the butter and mix it with the brown sugar and cinnamon as instructed, then layer the sliced apples on top and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Prepare the cake batter separately and store it in an airtight container in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter over the apple mixture and pop it into the oven. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting dessert ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day!

Apple Upside Down Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will enhance your Apple Upside Down Cake experience!

Spice It Up: Add ¼ teaspoon nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an unexpected warmth that complements the apples beautifully. A hint of nutmeg can transform the entire flavor profile.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple layer. The added crunch will make every bite more interesting and deliciously satisfying.
Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. Your cake will maintain its moistness while catering to dairy-intolerant friends!
Flavor Boost: Add 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce into the batter for a richer, more decadent flavor. This extra touch will really elevate those cozy, caramel notes!
Citrus Zest: Mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest into the batter to brighten the flavors. The citrus will cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing twist.
Caramelized Apples: Sauté the sliced apples in a little butter and brown sugar before placing them in the cake pan. This allows the apples to caramelize even more for an added depth of flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for a delightful contrast with the fruity sweetness. This indulgence will make your cake irresistible!
Extra Moisture: Replace half of the butter in the batter with unsweetened applesauce. This swap provides a lovely moisture while also enhancing the apple flavor!

Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apples for my cake?
Absolutely! It’s best to select tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their natural tartness balances beautifully with the sweetness of the brown sugar topping, creating a perfect flavor harmony.

How should I store my Apple Upside Down Cake?
To keep it fresh, allow your cake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to 1 week in a covered container.

Can I freeze Apple Upside Down Cake?
Certainly! You can slice your cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method allows it to retain its delicious flavor and moisture for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to thaw slices in the fridge overnight before enjoying!

What to do if my cake doesn’t come out clean when testing for doneness?
If your toothpick comes out with wet batter stuck to it, simply return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Make sure to check periodically to avoid overbaking!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this cake?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with allergies, note that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. You can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour and dairy-free butter or milk to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Apple Upside Down Cake?
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon or swapping in some chopped walnuts for added texture on top of the apples. The more, the merrier when it comes to customizations—feel free to experiment!

Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe FAQs