This Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake is the ultimate autumn dessert, combining the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel with the tartness of fresh apples. As it bakes, the caramel and apples meld together, creating a glossy, irresistible topping that perfectly complements the tender, moist cake underneath. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors—warm caramel, spiced apples, and soft vanilla cake—making it the perfect treat for cozy gatherings or simply indulging in a taste of fall.
Ingredients
For the Caramel-Apple Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel-Apple Topping:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, stirring until the sugar is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Arrange the apple slices over the caramel mixture in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Carefully spoon the cake batter over the apple slices in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Invert and Serve:
- Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it.
- Place a serving plate over the cake pan, and carefully invert the cake onto the plate.
- Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy your homemade Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake, a perfect slice of fall comfort!
