Apple Upside Down Cake

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Sticky, sweet, and bursting with caramelized apple flavor — this Apple Upside Down Cake is the perfect treat to welcome fall or celebrate any season. Imagine tender apples bathed in buttery brown sugar caramel, topped with a soft and fluffy vanilla cake that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s a beautiful dessert that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering, looking for an easy dessert idea, or want something unique for brunch, this cake never fails to impress. Served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it becomes an irresistible centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Upside Down Cake

This cake is a total game-changer for apple desserts. It takes just a few basic ingredients and turns them into a caramel-covered masterpiece. The apples get gorgeously golden and sticky as they bake, while the cake beneath stays moist and tender.

You’ll love how quick and easy it is to put together — no frosting required, and the cake decorates itself! It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who wants maximum flavor with minimal effort.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For the best results, go with firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These varieties hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the brown sugar topping. Avoid apples that get mushy when cooked, like Red Delicious.

Peel and slice them evenly so they cook consistently and lay beautifully at the bottom of the pan (which becomes the top of the cake after flipping).

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Ingredients for the Apple Upside Down Cake

Every ingredient in this cake plays an important role, from flavor to texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Apples: The star of the show. Choose firm apples that won’t break down during baking.
• Brown sugar: Creates that rich caramel layer on the bottom (which becomes the top!).
• Butter: Adds moisture and richness, and helps caramelize the sugar.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter and gives it structure.
• Eggs: Binds the batter and gives the cake a soft, light texture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
• Milk: Keeps the cake moist and helps everything blend smoothly.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake that holds it all together.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and gives it a soft crumb.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.

How To Make the Apple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Apples

Grease a round cake pan generously. Peel and slice your apples thinly, then arrange them in a spiral or fan pattern in the bottom of the pan. This will become the top once flipped.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

Melt butter in a saucepan and stir in the brown sugar until combined and bubbly. Pour this mixture over the arranged apples in the cake pan.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter

In a bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) and milk, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Gently pour the batter over the caramel-coated apples. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5: Flip and Cool

Let the cake rest for 5-10 minutes after baking, then run a knife around the edges. Invert it onto a serving plate while still warm so the caramel doesn’t stick. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Apple Upside Down Cake

This Apple Upside Down Cake is best served slightly warm, when the caramel is still glossy and the apples are tender. It makes a lovely dessert for 6 to 8 people, depending on slice size.

Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce to elevate every bite. If you’re serving it for brunch, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a simple yet elegant touch.

To store, wrap leftovers tightly or place them in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds to bring back the gooey texture.

What to Serve With Apple Upside Down Cake?

Whipped Cream

A classic topping that adds lightness and creamy contrast to the warm, caramel flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cool, velvety scoop melting over a warm slice is always a crowd-pleaser.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle some over the cake for an extra boost of buttery sweetness.

Spiced Chai Tea or Coffee

The warm spices in the tea or a freshly brewed coffee pair perfectly with the cinnamon-kissed apples.

Apple Cider

Serve chilled or warm. It enhances the apple flavor and adds a festive touch.

Cheddar Cheese Slice

For a traditional twist, especially in the Midwest, try a thin slice of sharp cheddar melted slightly on top.

Fresh Berries

A pop of tartness from raspberries or blackberries balances the richness of the cake beautifully.

Greek Yogurt

For a breakfast twist, serve with a scoop of thick, tangy yogurt and a drizzle of honey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it the day before and store it tightly covered at room temperature. Just warm slices in the microwave before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

2. What other fruits can I use besides apples?
Pineapple is the classic alternative, but you can also use pears, peaches, or plums. Just make sure they’re firm and not overly juicy.

3. Do I need to peel the apples?
It’s recommended for a softer texture and cleaner look, but you can leave the peels on if you prefer a more rustic feel.

4. Can I use a boxed cake mix?
Absolutely. A simple vanilla or yellow cake mix will work — just prepare the caramel and apple layer as directed, then pour the prepared batter over the top.

5. What if my caramel sticks to the pan?
Make sure to flip the cake while it’s still warm. If some caramel does stick, just scrape it out gently and spoon it back on top.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith? Did you go classic or add your own twist?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Find more tasty ideas and daily treats on my Pinterest page: Life With Livia on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Apple Upside Down Cake is the perfect mix of comfort and charm. It looks stunning, tastes divine, and comes together without the fuss of frosting or layering. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or sharing with friends, this is one of those timeless dessert recipes you’ll come back to again and again. With its caramel-glazed apples and soft vanilla crumb, it turns any moment into something special.

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