Caramel Apple Upside Down: 1 Amazing Fall Treat

Caramel apple upside down cake has always felt like a little bit of baking magic to me. I remember the first time I made one for a fall get-together, the aroma of spiced apples and warm caramel filling my kitchen. It wasn’t just a dessert; it was an experience! The glistening, amber topping that transforms into the base is simply mesmerizing. This recipe takes that classic charm and makes it even more approachable, ensuring you get that perfect caramel apple inverted cake with minimal fuss. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this stunning, rustic dessert. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

This dessert is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. You’ll adore its rustic charm and incredible flavor combination. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Stunning Presentation: The glossy, caramelized apple topping is a beautiful visual treat.
• Incredible Flavor: Sweet, tart apples mingle perfectly with rich, buttery caramel.
• Comforting Spices: Warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes make it perfect for fall.
• Easy to Make: This easy caramel apple upside down cake comes together quickly.
• Versatile: It works wonderfully as a stand-alone dessert or with ice cream.
• Impressive Result: It looks like you spent hours, but it’s quite straightforward.
• Perfect for Sharing: This upside down caramel apple dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Deliciously Moist: The cake batter stays incredibly tender.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this delightful homemade caramel apple upside down dessert. The topping uses simple pantry staples to create that gorgeous, gooey layer.

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – this forms the base of our quick caramel.
• \u00bd cup packed brown sugar – provides that classic caramel sweetness and color.
• 2\u20133 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully for their texture and flavor balance.
• 1\u00be cups all-purpose flour – the structure of our tender cake.
• 1\u00bd teaspoons baking powder – for a good lift.
• \u00bd teaspoon baking soda – helps create a tender crumb.
• \u00bd teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – essential for that warm, spiced apple flavor.
• \u00bc teaspoon nutmeg – adds a subtle depth to the spice blend.
• \u00bd cup unsalted butter, softened – for a rich and moist cake batter.
• \u00bd cup packed brown sugar – adds moisture and sweetness to the cake.
• \u00bc cup granulated sugar – for a lighter texture in the cake.
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature – helps bind everything together and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors.
• \u00bd cup sour cream or plain yogurt – this is the secret to a super moist cake!
• \u00bc cup milk (whole milk preferred) – brings the batter to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Follow these simple steps to create a stunning and delicious caramel apple upside down cake. I love how the caramel bubbles and transforms in the oven, creating a beautiful glaze for the apples. This process ensures you get a perfect caramelized apple upside down tart every time.

1. Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9-inch round cake pan or an oven-safe skillet. For easy removal, line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Let’s make that glorious caramel topping! Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and \u00bd cup packed brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it’s bubbly, smooth, and smells wonderfully sweet.
3. Step 3: Carefully pour this luscious caramel mixture into your prepared pan. Tilt the pan gently to ensure the caramel spreads evenly across the entire bottom.
4. Step 4: Now, artfully arrange your sliced apples over the caramel layer. I like to overlap them slightly to create a beautiful pattern.

5. Step 5: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1\u00be cups all-purpose flour, 1\u00be teaspoons baking powder, \u00bd teaspoon baking soda, \u00bd teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and \u00bc teaspoon nutmeg. This dry mix will form the base of our cake.
6. Step 6: In a separate large bowl, cream together the \u00bd cup softened unsalted butter with the \u00bd cup packed brown sugar and \u00bc cup granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is wonderfully light and fluffy.
7. Step 7: Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, \u00bd cup sour cream, and \u00bc cup milk until just combined.
8. Step 8: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay.
9. Step 9: Spoon the cake batter gently over the arranged apples in the pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even layer for baking. This is how to make caramel apple upside down cake so it looks perfect.
10. Step 10: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and smell amazing.
11. Step 11: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period is crucial. Place a serving plate over the pan and, with confidence, carefully flip the cake onto the plate. Gently lift the pan away to reveal the beautiful caramel apple topping.

Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

I’ve made this cake more times than I can count, and these little tricks make all the difference. They ensure your caramel apple inverted cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Using a mix of apple varieties, like Honeycrisp for sweetness and Granny Smith for tartness, gives the topping a more complex flavor.
• Don’t overmix the cake batter after adding the dry ingredients. A few streaks of flour are fine; overmixing leads to a tough cake.
• Letting the cake rest for 10-15 minutes after baking before flipping is crucial. This allows the caramel to set slightly, preventing it from sliding off.
• Ensure your cake pan is well-greased and lined with parchment paper. This prevents the sticky caramel from adhering to the pan.

What’s the secret to perfect Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

The secret lies in a few key areas: using a good mix of apples, not overmixing the batter, and letting the cake rest properly before flipping. This approach guarantees a moist cake and beautifully caramelized apples, making it the best caramel apple upside down recipe.

Can I make Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare parts of this cake ahead! You can peel and slice your apples a day in advance and store them in water with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. The cake batter is best made fresh, but assembling the topping and batter in the pan a few hours before baking is possible. For more baking tips, check out our latest recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

A common pitfall is flipping the cake too soon or too late. Flipping too soon causes the apples to slide off, while waiting too long can make the caramel stick. Also, overmixing the batter will result in a dense cake texture. Always use the suggested resting time. You can learn more about baking techniques on expert baking sites.

Best Ways to Serve Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

This dessert is absolutely divine served warm, right after it’s been flipped. The gooey caramel apples and moist cake are a match made in heaven. I love serving it with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melts into the warm caramel, creating a delightful sauce. For a slightly more sophisticated pairing, consider a dollop of freshly whipped cream or even a small spoonful of crème fraîche to cut through the sweetness. If you’re a fan of French patisserie, this cake offers a similar rustic charm to an apple caramel tarte tatin recipe, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. For more information on dessert pairings, you can visit our home page.

Nutrition Facts for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

This delightful dessert offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 15-20g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 8-10g
• Protein: Approximately 4-5g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
• Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
• Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
• Sodium: Approximately 200-250mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For questions about data privacy, please see our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Keeping this delightful caramel apple upside down cake fresh is easy, ensuring you can enjoy this quick caramel apple upside down dessert anytime. Once your cake has completely cooled, store it properly to maintain its delicious texture and flavor. For best results, I recommend using an airtight container. This prevents the cake from drying out and keeps it tasting just-baked.

You can store the cooled cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, transfer it to the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 15-30 seconds until warmed through, or bake in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until heated. If you have any concerns, our terms of use may provide further guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

What is caramel apple upside down cake?

A caramel apple upside down cake is a type of dessert where the topping is placed in the pan first, and then the cake batter is poured over it. When baked and inverted, the topping, typically caramelized fruits like apples, becomes the beautiful, glossy top layer of the cake. It’s a rustic yet elegant presentation.

Can I use different types of apples for this cake?

Absolutely! While I love Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for their balance of sweet and tart flavors, you can experiment. Firmer apples tend to hold their shape better during baking. Just ensure they are peeled, cored, and sliced uniformly for even cooking and presentation in your spiced apple caramel upside down cake.

My caramel stuck to the pan after flipping. What went wrong?

This usually happens if the cake is flipped while too hot or too cold. Letting it rest for the recommended 10-15 minutes after baking is key. This allows the caramel to set slightly but remain fluid enough to release. Also, ensure you’ve greased the pan thoroughly before adding the caramel and apples. For more information on baking, you can consult resources on baking science.

How can I make this cake gluten-free or vegan?

For a gluten-free caramel apple upside down version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free. To make it a vegan caramel apple upside down cake, use plant-based butter and milk, replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes), and use a vegan sour cream or yogurt alternative.

Variations of Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake You Can Try

This classic dessert is so adaptable! It’s easy to tweak for different dietary needs or to simply add new flavor dimensions. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next bake, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.

• Dietary Adaptations: For a wonderful gluten-free caramel apple upside down cake, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free. To create a delicious vegan caramel apple upside down cake, swap the butter for vegan butter, use a plant-based milk and yogurt alternative, and replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, then let sit for 5 minutes).
• Flavor Boosts: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum to the caramel topping while it’s simmering for a grown-up twist. A pinch of cardamom or a touch of ginger can be added to the cake batter alongside the cinnamon and nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples before adding the cake batter. This adds a lovely texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel and apples.
• Pear Swap: Pears make a delightful substitute for apples! Use firm pears like Bosc or Anjou, peeled, cored, and sliced, for a slightly different, yet equally delicious, upside-down cake.

Caramel Apple Upside Down: 1 Amazing Fall Treat

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Create a magical Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, a simple yet stunning dessert with a glossy, golden topping of caramelized apples. This cake is buttery, spiced, and features real apples in a quick caramel sauce, offering a rustic elegance perfect for fall.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the Caramel Apple Topping:
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2–3 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or a mix)
• For the Spiced Cake Batter:
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• ¼ cup milk (whole milk preferred)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or oven-safe skillet well. Line the bottom with parchment paper for extra protection.
2. Make the caramel topping: Melt 3 tablespoons butter and ½ cup brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and smooth.
3. Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan and tilt to spread evenly.
4. Arrange the sliced apples over the caramel layer.
5. Mix dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
6. Cream butter and sugars: Beat ½ cup softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
7. Add wet ingredients: Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla, sour cream, and milk.
8. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
9. Assemble the cake: Spoon the batter over the apples and gently smooth the top.
10. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Cool and flip: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully flip the cake onto the plate. Lift the pan away to reveal the caramel apple top.

Notes

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• A drizzle of caramel or a splash of cream enhances the flavor.
• Optional variations include adding bourbon to the caramel, using pears instead of apples, or adding nuts to the caramel layer.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4–5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
• Sodium: Approximately 200-250mg
• Fat: Approximately 15-20g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 8-10g
• Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 7-10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
• Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
• Protein: Approximately 4-5g
• Cholesterol: Approximately 70-80mg

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