Slice of caramel-apple upside-down cake on a plate

Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweet taste of caramel and the tartness of apples. This cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty and moist. It makes for a perfect treat at any gathering, be it a family dinner or a festive occasion. Plus, the process of flipping the cake to reveal the beautiful caramelized apples on top is a fun surprise!

how to make Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line a 9-inch nonstick cake pan with parchment paper.
  2. For the caramel topping, combine brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon in a pan over medium heat. Stir every 30 seconds until the mixture boils.
  3. Place apple slices on the parchment paper in the cake pan, then pour the boiled topping evenly over them.
  4. For the cake, mix white sugar and softened butter in a large bowl with an electric mixer until fluffy.
  5. Mix in eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
  6. Gradually add baking powder, baking soda, and 1/3 of the milk, followed by half of the flour, the rest of the milk, the remaining flour, and the final amount of milk while mixing briefly after each addition.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  8. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
  9. Let the cake sit for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then run a knife around the edges to separate it from the pan.
  10. Cut the top to flatten and invert onto a cake plate. Serve hot or cold.

how to serve Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake

Enjoy this cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

how to store Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake

To store leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

tips to make Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake

  • Make sure to use a nonstick pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • Choose a crisp apple variety, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t skip the cooling time after baking; this helps the caramel set and makes flipping the cake easier.

variation

Try adding nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You can also experiment with different fruits, such as pears or peaches, for a unique twist.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of sugar?
    Yes, you can experiment with different sugars, but keep in mind that it might change the flavor and texture of the cake slightly.

  2. What if I don’t have almond extract?
    If you don’t have almond extract, you can either leave it out or substitute it with an equal amount of vanilla extract.

  3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
    Yes, you can bake this cake a day in advance. Just store it properly and reheat it slightly before serving for the best flavor.