Name: Apple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 to 3 medium apples; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for topping); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for batter); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk

If you’re a fan of cozy, comforting desserts with a touch of elegance, this Apple Upside Down Cake will sweep you off your feet. It’s the perfect blend of gooey caramel, tender spiced apples, and a buttery vanilla cake that bakes right on top—flipped into golden beauty. Whether you’re planning a weekend bake or a festive dessert for guests, this cake never fails to impress.

Imagine slicing into a warm cake where each piece offers silky-soft apple slices glistening in caramelized sugar, paired with fluffy cake underneath. This isn’t just any apple dessert—it’s one with character, flavor depth, and showstopping presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Upside Down Cake

Perfect for Any Season: Apples are always in style, whether it’s fall or spring.
One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pan, from the caramel to the bake.
Crowd Pleaser: The glossy top and aroma alone make this a showstopper.
Versatile: Serve it warm with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or just as it is.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, it helps to gather the right tools—each one plays a key role in crafting the perfect bake.

10-inch Cast Iron Skillet or Cake Pan: This is essential for achieving an even bake and that classic golden caramelized top. If you’re using a cake pan, make sure it’s oven-safe with a solid base to hold the syrup.
Mandoline or Sharp Knife: For slicing apples thinly and evenly. Uniform slices ensure the top looks stunning and bakes evenly.
Mixing Bowls: At least two—one for dry ingredients and one for wet. Keeping them separate before combining helps prevent overmixing.
Whisk & Spatula: For smooth blending and scraping down the sides of bowls.
Cooling Rack: This helps the cake set after baking and allows steam to escape so it doesn’t become soggy.

Ingredients for the Apple Upside Down Cake

Apples (2-3 medium): Thinly sliced for the topping; use firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best structure and flavor.
Brown Sugar: Used in the topping to caramelize and create a rich, gooey base.
Unsalted Butter: Divided between the topping and batter; adds flavor, richness, and moisture.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and structure in the cake batter.
Eggs: Provide structure and bind the ingredients.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor depth of both apples and batter.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake for a light but stable texture.
Baking Powder: Gives the cake its rise.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Milk or Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the crumb.

How To Make the Apple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Create the Caramel Topping

Melt butter and brown sugar in your skillet or cake pan until bubbly and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and arrange the apple slices in a decorative pattern over the caramel.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter gently over the apples in the pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Flip

Let the cake rest for 10-15 minutes. Run a knife around the edge, place a plate on top, and flip it over swiftly. Let gravity help release the cake.

How to Serve and Store Apple Upside Down Cake

Serve this cake slightly warm for the best experience. A dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the caramelized apple topping. For a festive twist, a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce elevates each bite.

Store any leftovers tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigeration is fine but may slightly firm the caramel—just reheat slices gently in the microwave to restore the gooey texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Use a well-greased pan, and don’t skip the parchment paper circle if using a cake pan. Cooling the cake slightly before flipping also helps.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance, and gently warm it before serving to bring back its luscious texture.

What are the best apples to use?

Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji hold their shape and balance the sweetness well.

Can I freeze this cake?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it (wrapped well) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Absolutely! A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg adds a cozy depth that complements the apples beautifully.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If this Apple Upside Down Cake stole your heart, these other bakes are worth a try:

Amish Applesauce Cake — moist, spiced, and utterly nostalgic.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake — a creamy, swirled beauty.
Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake — rich, decadent, and award-winning.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake — the easiest way to impress.
Pecan Pie Lasagna — layers of nutty, gooey indulgence.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with cinnamon? Try it with pears instead of apples? Share your twist—I love seeing your versions!

More comfort-bake ideas shared daily on my Pinterest @Americanrecipesbyheart.