There’s something truly delightful about a warm slice of Apple Upside-Down Cake. This classic dessert marries the sweetness of tender apples with a soft, fluffy cake, all topped with a decadent caramel layer. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy day in autumn. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just because you crave a slice of dessert. Let’s delve into how to make this delicious treat that will have your friends and family asking for seconds!
What You’ll Need for Apple Upside-Down Cake
Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Apple Upside-Down Cake:
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 2/3 cup sugar (130 g)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 g)
- 2/3 cup milk (150 ml)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210 g)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (10 g)
- 2 to 3 apples
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Cinnamon, to taste
- 1/4 cup butter (40 g)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Step-by-Step Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
- Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples thinly. In a bowl, toss them with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon to coat. Set aside.
- Make the Caramelized Topping: In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture into the bottom of your baking pan.
- Arrange the Apples: Lay the apple slices in a decorative pattern over the caramel in the baking pan.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with salt, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar until the mixture is fluffy. Gradually add vegetable oil and milk while continuing to mix until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Slowly fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
- Layer the Cake: Pour the cake batter over the arranged apples in the baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then, gently invert it onto a plate to reveal the beautiful apple topping.
How to Serve Apple Upside-Down Cake
This Apple Upside-Down Cake is best served warm, right out of the oven, to fully enjoy its comforting flavors. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a cozy herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Helpful Tricks for Apple Upside-Down Cake
- Apple Choices: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to add depth to the flavor.
- Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans over the apple layer before adding the batter.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with spices. A dash of nutmeg or allspice can add an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Apple Upside-Down Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
A: Yes! Pears, peaches, or pineapples also work well. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary for softer fruits.
Q: How do I know when the cake is ready?
A: The cake should be golden brown on the top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and simply reheat it before serving.
This Apple Upside-Down Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug from the oven. I encourage you to try this recipe and fill your home with the delightful aromas of baking apples and cinnamon. Happy baking!
Apple Upside-Down Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Toss them with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
- In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add brown sugar and stir until dissolved. Pour into the bottom of your baking pan.
- Lay the apple slices in a decorative pattern over the caramel in the baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with salt, vanilla sugar, and regular sugar until fluffy. Gradually add vegetable oil and milk while mixing until smooth.
- In another bowl, sift together flour and baking powder. Slowly fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
- Pour the cake batter over the arranged apples in the baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then, gently invert it onto a plate.