Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

This Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake is the perfect fall dessert, combining warm, caramelized apples, a moist cake, and a rich cinnamon flavor. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe will become a family favorite. The apple upside-down cake is baked with a delicious caramel topping made from brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, giving it a decadent flavor. Ideal for serving at holiday gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this dessert is sure to impress. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a complete treat!

Ingredients:

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2/3 cup (130 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Pour the caramel into a greased 9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Arrange the Apples:
   Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Layer the apple slices over the caramel in the baking dish, arranging them in a decorative pattern.
3. Make the Cake Batter:
   In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, alternating between the two and beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
6. Assemble and Bake:
   Pour the cake batter over the apple layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Invert the Cake:
   Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes before placing a large flat dish over the top. Carefully flip the cake upside down and remove the baking dish to reveal the caramel apple topping.

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Tips:

• Use firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
• Be sure to let the cake cool slightly before inverting to prevent the caramel from spilling.
• Butter the baking dish well to ensure the cake releases easily after flipping.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Add nuts: Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer for extra crunch.
• Swap the milk: Use buttermilk or almond milk for a different twist on the flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon for a spicier cake.

FAQs:

1. Can I make this cake in advance?
   Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat before serving.
2. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
   Yes! Pears or peaches would work beautifully as substitutes for apples.
3. What should I serve with this cake?
   Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• For a festive touch, drizzle with extra caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake is a perfect blend of rich, buttery caramel, tender apples, and soft cake, all topped off with a sweet and spicy cinnamon flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, and the combination of textures—from gooey caramel to light cake—will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, the easy inversion method makes it a no-fuss dessert that looks impressive every time!