Description
This upside-down apple cake features caramelized apples on a moist, fluffy base, blending the tartness of Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples with warm spices. It’s a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion, sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of vinegar)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges (about 8 slices per apple).
- In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the 1/2 cup of butter over low heat. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the butter.
- Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern over the brown sugar mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined.
- Pour the batter over the arranged apples in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan.
- Place a large plate upside down over the cake pan and quickly flip it over.
- If any apples stick to the pan, remove them with a spatula and place them back on the cake.
- Allow the cake to cool before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
- For an extra treat, serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for varying flavors.
- This cake can also be made ahead of time and served later, making it a great option for gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes