Buttery Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake

Buttery Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake is a warm and inviting dessert that highlights tender caramelized apples atop a moist, fluffy cake. With its rich buttery caramel sauce and delicate cinnamon-spiced fruit, this classic cake offers a comforting and elegant way to enjoy fall flavors year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake perfectly combines the natural sweetness and slight tartness of apples with a luscious caramel topping and a tender, buttery cake base. The upside-down presentation creates a beautiful, glossy apple layer on top after baking, making it as visually impressive as it is delicious. It’s simple to prepare, requiring just one pan, and is ideal for sharing with family and friends.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Caramel Apple Topping:

• unsalted butter

• brown sugar

• large apples, peeled and sliced

• ground cinnamon

For the Cake:

• all-purpose flour

• baking powder

• salt

• unsalted butter, softened

• granulated sugar

• large eggs

• vanilla extract

• buttermilk

directions

1. Prepare Oven and Pan:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. Make the Caramel Apple Topping:
   In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon until combined. Add sliced apples and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften slightly. Pour the caramel apple mixture evenly into the prepared pan and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined and smooth.

5. Assemble and Bake:
   Pour the batter over the caramel apples in the pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Invert:
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate so the caramel apple topping is on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 slices.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Calories: About 320 kcal per slice

Variations

• Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different fruit flavor.

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel topping for added texture.

• Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique caramel twist.

• Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for extra warmth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven until warmed through. The cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work well as alternatives.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on is optional.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, keeping measurements the same.

Is buttermilk necessary?

Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness, but you can substitute with regular milk plus a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking when inverted?

Greasing the pan thoroughly and lining it with parchment paper helps ensure easy release.

Can I prepare the topping in advance?

It’s best to prepare and assemble just before baking for optimal texture.

What if my cake is browning too quickly?

Cover loosely with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.

How long should the cake cool before inverting?

Allow 10 minutes of cooling to let the caramel set without making it too firm.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit any added salt to avoid over-salting.

Conclusion

Buttery Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake is a timeless dessert that beautifully showcases tender, caramelized apples on a soft, flavorful cake base. Its ease of preparation and impressive presentation make it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions. With its warm spices and rich caramel notes, this cake captures the essence of comfort and celebration in every bite.