If you’re craving a dessert that’s both charming and bursting with flavor, this Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe is the perfect choice. It transforms simple, everyday ingredients like fresh apples and cinnamon into a moist, tender cake topped with a caramelized, fruity glaze that’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family night or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and sweetness in every bite, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, from lending moisture and softness to layering flavors that dance together. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Creates a rich, golden caramel base that coats the apples beautifully.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep sweetness and enhances the caramelization of the topping.
- 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced: Choose tart or sweet apples for a juicy, tender fruit layer.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional): Sprinkles in warm spice to complement the apples perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the fluffy, tender body of the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to light, airy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Enhances the texture and works with sour cream to keep the cake moist.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and lifts all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Mixed into the batter for consistent warmth throughout the cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the apples.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lends an inviting, aromatic depth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt: Keeps the cake soft and moist with a subtle tang.
- 1/4 cup milk: Balances the batter’s consistency for a tender bite.
How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your pan. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and stir in 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until combined. Pour this mixture evenly into a greased cake pan to create a sticky, caramel heaven. Next, layer your peeled and sliced apples over the caramel, arranging them to cover the surface fully. Sprinkle the optional 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon over the apples to infuse warmth right from the start.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sieve together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and gives your cake a light texture. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or hand beaters, cream 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This process traps air, which results in a soft cake crumb. Be patient here — this step makes all the difference in texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a fragrant touch. This combination brings both richness and aroma to your cake batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients – 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt) and 1/4 cup milk – to the creamed butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients to keep the batter well-balanced and smooth. Mix each addition just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake tough.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter gently over the apple and caramel layer in your pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly without disturbing the fruit arrangement below. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before you invert it onto a serving plate, revealing that luscious apple caramel topping.
How to Serve Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the warm spiced apples wonderfully. For an elegant twist, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top. These additions add crunch and contrast, turning the cake into a little slice of heaven.
Side Dishes
Serve your Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai tea to balance sweetness with a comforting, aromatic pairing. For a brunch or afternoon treat, fresh seasonal fruit or a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the cake perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider making mini versions of this cake in ramekins for stunning individual servings at gatherings. You can also transform leftover cake into an indulgent trifle layered with custard and fresh fruit, giving your Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe a second life that impresses every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your leftover Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is better to keep the apple topping fresh and the cake moist.
Freezing
This cake freezes well, making it ideal for prepping ahead. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
To revive the warm goodness, reheat slices gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a toaster oven for a few minutes until just heated through. Adding a little butter or caramel sauce on top before warming adds a fresh sheen and richness that feels like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Braeburn, or Gala apples. Just keep in mind that sweeter varieties will make the cake sweeter overall.
Do I have to use sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or even buttermilk. These ingredients add moisture and a slight tang that elevates the cake’s texture and flavor beautifully.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking when I flip it?
Be sure to grease your pan thoroughly, especially the edges, and allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before flipping. Using a thin spatula around the edges can help loosen the cake gently from the pan.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture.
What if I don’t have cinnamon?
While cinnamon adds classic warmth to the Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe, you can replace it with nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cloves to bring a different spicy dimension to the dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe is a treasure that makes baking feel utterly rewarding and comforting. Its beautiful caramelized apple topping paired with moist, tender cake invites you to slow down and savor every bite. Whether you’re baking it for the first time or the tenth, this recipe promises to be a beloved staple in your kitchen. Grab your ingredients and start baking — sweetness and warmth await!
Print
Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Apple Upside Down Cake features tender, spiced apples caramelized with brown sugar and butter, layered beneath a moist, buttery cake. Perfect for a cozy dessert or special occasion, this cake combines the sweet-tart flavor of Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples with warm cinnamon and a luscious sour cream-infused batter for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2–3 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Topping: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan, pour the melted butter evenly over the bottom. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. Arrange the peeled, cored, and sliced apples over the brown sugar in a single layer. If desired, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon over the apples for added flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or whisk, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl or measuring cup, mix the sour cream (or plain yogurt) with the milk until smooth.
- Combine Batter: Alternately add the dry ingredients and the sour cream mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Pour Batter Over Apples: Carefully spread the batter evenly over the arranged apples in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown on top.
- Cool and Invert: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate so the caramelized apples are on top.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast.
- If sour cream is not available, plain yogurt is a good substitute and helps keep the cake moist.
- Ensure the butter for creaming is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for additional warm spice flavor.
- For an extra caramelized top, you can broil the inverted cake for 1-2 minutes after flipping, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
