Apple Upside Down Cake

Apple Upside Down Cake is one of those desserts that feels like a hug on a plate. With sweet caramelized apples on top and a soft, buttery cake underneath, it’s the kind of treat that brings comfort to every bite.

This cake has all the cozy flavors of apple pie, but with an elegant twist. It’s a beautiful dessert to serve at Thanksgiving, the holidays, or anytime you want to share a little sweetness with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Caramelized apples add rich flavor and a beautiful golden topping.
• The cake is soft, moist, and lightly spiced for extra coziness.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
• Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday dessert table.
• A show-stopping dessert that looks fancy but is easy to make.

Ingredients

• Apples (3 medium, peeled and thinly sliced) – Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala all work well.
• Brown sugar (½ cup / 100 g) – Creates the caramel-like topping.
• Butter (¼ cup / 60 g, melted) – Adds richness and helps with caramelization.
• All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups / 190 g) – The base for the cake.
• Baking powder (2 tsp) – For a fluffy, light texture.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Warm spice that complements apples beautifully.
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances the sweetness.
• Eggs (2 large) – Provide structure and richness.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup / 150 g) – Sweetens the cake batter.
• Milk (½ cup / 120 ml) – Keeps the cake soft and moist.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the pan (5 minutes)
   Grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Pour melted butter into the bottom, sprinkle brown sugar evenly, and arrange apple slices neatly on top.
2. Mix dry ingredients (2 minutes)
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Make the batter (5 minutes)
   In a large bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until fluffy. Stir in milk and vanilla. Gradually fold in dry mixture until just combined.
4. Assemble (2 minutes)
   Pour batter gently over apples, spreading evenly.
5. Bake (40–45 minutes at 350°F / 175°C)
   Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
6. Cool and invert (15 minutes)
   Let the cake rest for 10 minutes, then carefully flip it onto a serving plate. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

You Must Know

• Use firm apples to hold their shape after baking.
• Cooling time is key—don’t flip too soon!
• Room temperature ingredients make a smoother batter.

Storage Tips

• Keep covered at room temperature for 2 days.
• Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Apples → Pears work as a sweet twist.
• Brown sugar → Coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different flavor.
• Butter → Margarine or plant-based butter for dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.
• Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a holiday-ready look.

Cultural Context

Upside-down cakes became popular in American kitchens in the early 1900s, especially with pineapple. The apple version has since become a beloved fall and Thanksgiving dessert, combining old-fashioned charm with seasonal flavors.

Pro Tips

• Slice apples evenly for the best presentation.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
• Use parchment paper on the bottom for an easy release.
• A pinch of nutmeg or allspice adds extra depth.

Lucy

Apple Upside Down Cake

Apple Upside Down Cake is a cozy dessert with caramelized apples on top and a soft, buttery cake underneath — perfect for holidays or sharing with loved ones.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
• 0.5 cup brown sugar (100 g)
• 0.25 cup melted butter (60 g)
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (190 g)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 0.75 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
• 0.5 cup milk (120 ml)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pan
• mixing bowls
• whisk
• hand mixer or stand mixer
• rubber spatula
• cooling rack

Method

 

1. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Pour melted butter into the bottom, sprinkle brown sugar evenly, and arrange apple slices neatly on top.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until fluffy. Stir in milk and vanilla. Gradually fold in dry mixture until just combined.
4. Pour batter gently over apples, spreading evenly.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden.
6. Let the cake rest for 10 minutes, then carefully flip onto a serving plate. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Use firm apples for best results. Let the cake cool at least 10 minutes before flipping. Room temperature ingredients yield a smoother batter. For extra flavor, try adding nutmeg or allspice. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving for a festive finish.

FAQs

Craving More Sweet Treats? Try These Next:

• Apple Pie Recipe
• Apple Cinnamon Roll Recipe
• Pineapple Cheesecake