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Apple Upside Down Cake

Apple Upside Down Cake
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Apple Upside Down Cake is a warm and comforting dessert featuring caramelized firm apples atop a moist, tender cake infused with warm spices. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this elegant yet cozy cake is perfect for autumn evenings, family gatherings, or festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Topping

  • 3 large firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar

Cake Batter

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 large eggs (or 3 flax eggs for vegan adaptation)
  • 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (or plant-based milk for vegan adaptation)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the caramelized apple topping: Melt 1/2 cup butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar together in your baking pan over medium heat until the mixture is bubbly and thick. Then, neatly arrange the peeled and sliced apples on top of the caramel mixture. This layer will become the luscious topping once the cake is flipped.
  2. Mix the cake batter: In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another large bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and softened butter until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients to form a smooth, thick batter.
  3. Assemble the cake: Pour the batter gently over the arranged apples in the pan, spreading it evenly without disturbing the fruit. This ensures the apples stay beautifully in place after baking.
  4. Bake to golden perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will rise and develop a golden crust on top.
  5. Cool and flip: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter so the caramelized apple layer is on top, glossy and inviting.

Notes

  • Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to hold their shape and prevent soggy toppings.
  • Use a heavy, oven-safe pan (cast iron or thick metal) for even cooking.
  • Rest the cake before flipping to avoid breakage.
  • Add spices gradually and taste to achieve your perfect balance.
  • Brush apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and add freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Apple Upside Down Cake, caramelized apple cake, autumn dessert, cozy dessert, gluten-free apple cake, vegan apple cake adaptation

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/apple-upside-down-cake/