This caramel apple upside down cake combines tender apples, gooey caramel, and buttery cake in one cozy dessert. It’s quick to prepare, looks beautiful when flipped, and works perfectly for fall gatherings. In addition, it captures the nostalgic flavor of caramel apples in a softer, cake form.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
- Sweet caramel topping with a golden finish
- Tart apples that balance the richness
- Moist, fluffy cake that stays soft
- Easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests
Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Ingredients
Here’s everything you need from pantry staples and fresh apples to make this recipe shine. Moreover, these items are simple and familiar, so you won’t need a specialty store.
Pantry & Fresh
| Pantry | Fresh |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup unsalted butter | 2 large apples, peeled, cored, sliced |
| 1 cup brown sugar | — |
| 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour | — |
| 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder | — |
| 1/4 teaspoon salt | — |
| 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened | — |
| 3/4 cup granulated sugar | — |
| 2 large eggs | — |
| 1 teaspoon vanilla extract | — |
| 1/2 cup milk | — |
| 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon | — |
Ingredient Substitutions
Granny Smith apples are classic, but Fuji or Honeycrisp provide a sweeter bite. Similarly, almond milk can replace dairy, and white sugar mixed with molasses works in place of brown sugar. For food guidance on apple storage, see the USDA apple fact sheet.
Step-by-Step Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
These steps take you from caramel base to final flip. Consequently, even beginner bakers can succeed with confidence.
- Make the Caramel Base
First, preheat oven to 350°F. Then melt butter and brown sugar in a 9-inch pan until caramelized. Arrange apple slices neatly on top.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Next, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, cream softened butter with sugar until fluffy.
- Build the Cake Batter
After that, beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Alternate flour mixture with milk, beginning and ending with flour.
- Bake and Flip the Cake
Finally, spread batter over apples. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes, then invert onto a plate.
Pro Tips for Baking Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Because apples release juice, choose firm ones to avoid sogginess. In addition, grease the pan generously and wait before flipping. You can also sprinkle nuts over the caramel for crunch or add nutmeg for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
For gluten-free, use a 1:1 flour blend. For dairy-free, replace butter with coconut oil and milk with almond milk. If you’re vegan, flax eggs and plant butter work well. Furthermore, serve with Greek yogurt for added protein.
Serve This Caramel Apple Cake With
This cake pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream. Likewise, spiced chai, hot coffee, or apple cider complement the cozy flavors. Try it with Apple Pecan Tart for a fall dessert spread.
Storage & Reheat for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Store at room temperature up to two days, or refrigerate for five. When ready to enjoy, warm slices in the microwave for 20 seconds or in a 300°F oven. For longer storage, freeze up to three months, thawing overnight in the fridge. For food safety, follow USDA cake storage guidelines.
Nutrition Facts
One slice has about 360 calories, 52 grams carbs, 15 grams fat, and 3 grams protein. Sugar is about 38 grams with 2 grams fiber. For balanced eating, see NIH sugar guidance. For safe baking practices, check FDA food safety tips.
FAQs
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness.
Yes, bake a day early, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.
Grease the pan well and cool slightly before flipping.
Best warm, but delicious at room temperature.
More Recipes Like Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Love fruity bakes? Try Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl for a cozy loaf. For a modern twist, bake the Apple Crumble Cheesecake. If you prefer smaller bites, Apple Cinnamon Blondies are perfect.
Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramel apple upside down cake with gooey caramel, tender apples, and moist cake perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Melt butter with brown sugar in a 9-inch round pan. Arrange apple slices on top.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cream butter and sugar in another bowl.
- Beat in eggs, then add vanilla. Alternate dry mixture with milk until combined.
- Spread batter over apples. Bake 35–40 minutes. Cool briefly, then invert onto plate.
Notes
- Use firm apples for best texture. Grease pan thoroughly. Let cake cool slightly before flipping. Add pecans for crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Save This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe for Later
Pin this caramel apple upside down cake to your favorite board so it’s ready when fall baking cravings hit.