Description
This Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful fall dessert featuring tender cake layered over a rich caramel and cinnamon-spiced apple topping. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings when served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 medium apples (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
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 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 sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Topping: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and ground cinnamon, cooking until the mixture bubbles, about 2 minutes. Pour the caramel mixture evenly into the prepared pan and arrange the thinly sliced apples over the caramel in a circular pattern.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract followed by the sour cream. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternated with the whole milk, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble and Bake: Gently spoon the batter over the apple and caramel layer, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the caramel apple topping is on top. Let the cake cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Serve the cake warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- The cake can be prepared a day ahead and gently reheated before serving to enhance flavors.
