Irresistible Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Name: Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, sliced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for caramel); 1 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for batter), softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

June 16, 2025

Updated:

June 16, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of warm caramel drifting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of baked apples, is like a cozy hug on a chilly autumn day. This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an invitation to gather friends and family around the table, exchanging laughter and stories while savoring each slice.

Picture this: you cut into the golden crust, revealing tender apples glistening with sticky caramel that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this cake promises to be the star of the show—an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
The flavor profile combines rich caramel with tart apples for a delightful balance.
Visually, it’s a showstopper, making any dessert table look irresistible.
Enjoy it as a warm treat after dinner or as a delightful brunch centerpiece.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Apples: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tartness and texture, perfect for caramelizing.
Brown Sugar: Choose light brown sugar for sweetness and that luscious caramel flavor we all crave.
Unsalted Butter: Fresh butter adds richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
All-Purpose Flour: A standard choice, providing structure to your cake while keeping it light and airy.
Baking Powder: Essential for helping the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Eggs: Use large eggs for moisture and binding; they are pivotal in creating that fluffy texture.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor depth; skip imitation if you can!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

How to Make Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an oven-safe skillet or round cake pan (around 9 inches) and lightly grease it with butter.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In your skillet over medium heat, melt about half a cup of unsalted butter. Stir in one cup of brown sugar until fully combined and bubbly. Cook for about two minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Arrange the Apples

Slice your apples thinly (about half an inch thick) and arrange them in the caramel sauce in a lovely spiral pattern—this dessert is as much about looks as it is taste!

Step 4: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine one cup of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, cream together half a cup of softened butter with one cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in two eggs one at a time along with two teaspoons of vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix! Pour this batter over your beautifully arranged apples in the skillet.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for about ten minutes before flipping it upside down onto a serving plate.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with leftover caramel sauce from the pan if you dare—because who can resist more caramel?

And there you have it! A delightful Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake that not only tastes divine but also brings warmth and joy to any occasion!

You Must Know

Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of heaven.
Imagine warm, gooey caramel mingling with tender apples and fluffy cake, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
This delightful treat will have your friends begging for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the caramel sauce first to create that luscious base. While it cools, mix the cake batter. Then, layer the apples in the caramel before pouring the batter over them, ensuring even cooking and a perfect flip later.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out apples for pears or add nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance those fall flavors, making your cake uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a perfectly flipped cake, let it cool slightly before inverting.
Use fresh apples for better texture and flavor.
Always test your cake with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

Sometimes I serve this cake when friends visit, and you wouldn’t believe the compliments! It’s always heartwarming to see everyone gather around with smiles—food really does bring people together!

FAQs :

What is Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that features layers of caramelized apples atop a moist vanilla cake. The cake is baked upside down, allowing the sweet caramel and juicy apples to create a beautiful presentation once flipped. It’s a perfect treat for fall gatherings or any special occasion, combining the flavors of autumn with a classic cake.

How do I store leftover Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

To store leftover Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To enjoy it warm, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

Can I use different fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different fruits in your Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake! While apples are traditional, pears or peaches would also work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the fruit’s moisture content and ripeness. Experimenting with various fruits can yield delicious results!

What makes this cake so special?

The combination of tender cake, caramelized apples, and rich caramel sauce makes Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake truly special. The upside-down baking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while creating an eye-catching dessert. It’s not only delicious but also a showstopper for gatherings and celebrations.

Conclusion for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake :

In conclusion, Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is a scrumptious treat that perfectly captures autumn’s essence. With its simple preparation and stunning presentation, this cake is ideal for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. Remember to use fresh apples for the best flavor and experiment with different fruits if you wish! Enjoy each bite of this delightful dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion.

0 Shares