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Homemade apple upside down cake with caramelized apple slices.
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
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.