This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is the perfect dessert for fall, blending the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with buttery caramel and tender apples. With a moist and fluffy cake on top and a gooey caramel apple topping, it’s a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Indulgent: The salted caramel sauce and sweet apples create a luscious topping.
• Warm Fall Flavors: Cinnamon and nutmeg make this cake a cozy dessert for cooler months.
• Impressive Presentation: The upside-down design makes this cake look as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
• 1 ¾ cup (8 ¾ oz / 247g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup (4 oz / 115g) butter, softened
• 1 cup (8 oz / 225g) granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup (4 oz / 115g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
• A generous ½ cup (4 floz / 115ml) salted caramel sauce
• 2-3 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced about ½ inch (1.5 cm) thick
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Butter the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) cake pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
1. In a stand mixer or with a handheld mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
1. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, and mix until just combined.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
1. Pour the salted caramel sauce into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly over the bottom and up the sides.
2. Arrange the sliced apples in a single layer on top of the caramel.
Step 7: Add the Batter
1. Gently spread the cake batter evenly over the apples, being careful not to disturb the arrangement.
Step 8: Bake
1. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Invert
1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate while it’s still warm to prevent the caramel from sticking.
Serving Suggestions
• Enjoy the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Drizzle with additional salted caramel for an extra touch of decadence.
Storage Options
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore the warm, gooey texture.
This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of caramelized apples and spices. It’s the ultimate dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you’re in the mood for a cozy treat! 🍎✨
