FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Tempting and Sweet Treat

by on September 27, 2025

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to treat yourself with a dessert that delights? My Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake combines gooey caramel, juicy apples, and a moist cake for a truly sweet indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this easy recipe and its simple steps will have you craving a slice. Let’s dive into this tempting treat that will impress everyone at your table!

For the best Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, gather these key ingredients: - 4 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 3 large eggs, at room temperature - 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature Apples bring sweetness and tartness. Brown sugar adds depth to the caramel. Butter gives richness. Vanilla and cinnamon add warm flavors to the cake. You can try these optional ingredients to change things up: - Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch - Dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries, for added sweetness - A splash of apple cider for extra apple flavor These additions can make your cake more exciting and unique. If you have dietary needs, here are some substitutions: - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour for gluten-free needs. - Use egg replacements like flax eggs for a vegan option. These swaps help you enjoy the cake without worry. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure our cake bakes evenly. Next, take a medium skillet and melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Stir it continuously until it dissolves and begins to bubble. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Now, add the sliced apples, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir everything well. Cook this mixture for 5-7 minutes. The apples should soften but still hold their shape. After that, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Set this aside for later. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until it looks light and creamy, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of whole milk, stirring until it's well mixed. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently combine. A few lumps are okay; don’t overmix. Now, it’s time to combine our layers. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Pour the cooled apple mixture into the bottom of the pan. Spread it evenly, then arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern. Carefully pour the batter over the apples, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check if it's done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the pan and flip it over. The apple layer will rest on top. Allow the cake to cool slightly before you slice and serve. For this cake, I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. - Granny Smith: They are tart and hold their shape well. - Honeycrisp: They add sweetness and crunch. These apples balance the rich caramel flavor perfectly. To keep the bottom of your cake from getting soggy, follow these tips: - Cook the apples lightly: Only cook them until they soften a bit. - Use a non-stick pan: This helps the cake release better. - Cool slightly before flipping: Let the cake rest for 10 minutes. These steps keep the cake fluffy and light. Serve this cake warm or at room temperature for the best taste. Here are some fun serving ideas: - Top with whipped cream: This adds a creamy touch. - Pair with vanilla ice cream: The cold ice cream contrasts well. - Drizzle extra caramel sauce: This enhances the sweet flavor. These options make the cake even more tempting! {{image_4}} You can make your caramel apple cake even more special by adding nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a great crunch. Just sprinkle them on top of the apples before pouring in the cake batter. The nuts will toast as the cake bakes, giving you a lovely texture and flavor. This small change makes a big difference. To make a gluten-free version, you can swap out the all-purpose flour. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding. This way, everyone can enjoy the cake without gluten. Follow the same steps for the recipe, and you will have a moist cake that tastes just as good. You can change up the fruits based on the season. In the fall, use pears or figs. In the summer, peaches or berries work well. Just slice them thinly and follow the same steps as with the apples. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor to the cake. This keeps your dessert fresh and fun all year round. Store leftover caramel apple upside down cake in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Place the container in the fridge. The cake stays good for about three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze the cake, let it cool completely first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's warm. You can also use the microwave. Heat a slice for about 30 seconds on high. Enjoy it warm for the best taste! Yes, you can use other fruits! Pears, peaches, or even berries work well. Just make sure they are ripe. Each fruit brings its own taste and texture. Experiment to find your favorite combo! Check the cake at 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Overbaking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it! This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a twist, serve with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. Enjoy it warm for the best taste! You learned how to make a tasty Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You also discovered fun variations and how to store leftovers. This cake is simple and can fit many tastes. Whether you try nuts or go gluten-free, the choices are endless. Enjoy making this treat for yourself or loved ones. Happy baking!

Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

For the best Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, gather these key ingredients:

– 4 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced

– 1 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon fine salt

– 3/4 cup granulated sugar

– 3 large eggs, at room temperature

– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature

Apples bring sweetness and tartness. Brown sugar adds depth to the caramel. Butter gives richness. Vanilla and cinnamon add warm flavors to the cake.

Optional Ingredients for Variation

You can try these optional ingredients to change things up:

– Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch

– Dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries, for added sweetness

– A splash of apple cider for extra apple flavor

These additions can make your cake more exciting and unique.

Suggested Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

If you have dietary needs, here are some substitutions:

– Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

– Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour for gluten-free needs.

– Use egg replacements like flax eggs for a vegan option.

These swaps help you enjoy the cake without worry.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Apple Layer

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure our cake bakes evenly. Next, take a medium skillet and melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Stir it continuously until it dissolves and begins to bubble. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Now, add the sliced apples, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir everything well. Cook this mixture for 5-7 minutes. The apples should soften but still hold their shape. After that, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Set this aside for later. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until it looks light and creamy, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of whole milk, stirring until it’s well mixed. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently combine. A few lumps are okay; don’t overmix.

Baking and Cooling the Cake

Now, it’s time to combine our layers. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Pour the cooled apple mixture into the bottom of the pan. Spread it evenly, then arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern. Carefully pour the batter over the apples, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the pan and flip it over. The apple layer will rest on top. Allow the cake to cool slightly before you slice and serve.

Tips & Tricks

Best Apple Varieties to Use

For this cake, I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples.

– Granny Smith: They are tart and hold their shape well.

– Honeycrisp: They add sweetness and crunch.

These apples balance the rich caramel flavor perfectly.

How to Avoid a Soggy Bottom

To keep the bottom of your cake from getting soggy, follow these tips:

– Cook the apples lightly: Only cook them until they soften a bit.

– Use a non-stick pan: This helps the cake release better.

– Cool slightly before flipping: Let the cake rest for 10 minutes.

These steps keep the cake fluffy and light.

Ideal Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake warm or at room temperature for the best taste.

Here are some fun serving ideas:

– Top with whipped cream: This adds a creamy touch.

– Pair with vanilla ice cream: The cold ice cream contrasts well.

– Drizzle extra caramel sauce: This enhances the sweet flavor.

These options make the cake even more tempting!

Variations

Caramel Apple Cake with Nuts

You can make your caramel apple cake even more special by adding nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a great crunch. Just sprinkle them on top of the apples before pouring in the cake batter. The nuts will toast as the cake bakes, giving you a lovely texture and flavor. This small change makes a big difference.

Gluten-Free Version of Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

To make a gluten-free version, you can swap out the all-purpose flour. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding. This way, everyone can enjoy the cake without gluten. Follow the same steps for the recipe, and you will have a moist cake that tastes just as good.

Seasonal Variations for Different Fruits

You can change up the fruits based on the season. In the fall, use pears or figs. In the summer, peaches or berries work well. Just slice them thinly and follow the same steps as with the apples. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor to the cake. This keeps your dessert fresh and fun all year round.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover caramel apple upside down cake in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Place the container in the fridge. The cake stays good for about three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Freezing Tips for Longer Storage

To freeze the cake, let it cool completely first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warm. You can also use the microwave. Heat a slice for about 30 seconds on high. Enjoy it warm for the best taste!

FAQs

Can I use different fruits instead of apples?

Yes, you can use other fruits! Pears, peaches, or even berries work well. Just make sure they are ripe. Each fruit brings its own taste and texture. Experiment to find your favorite combo!

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Check the cake at 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Overbaking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it!

What can I serve with Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake?

This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a twist, serve with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. Enjoy it warm for the best taste!

You learned how to make a tasty Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You also discovered fun variations and how to store leftovers.

This cake is simple and can fit many tastes. Whether you try nuts or go gluten-free, the choices are endless. Enjoy making this treat for yourself or loved ones. Happy baking!

For the best Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake, gather these key ingredients: - 4 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 3 large eggs, at room temperature - 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature Apples bring sweetness and tartness. Brown sugar adds depth to the caramel. Butter gives richness. Vanilla and cinnamon add warm flavors to the cake. You can try these optional ingredients to change things up: - Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch - Dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries, for added sweetness - A splash of apple cider for extra apple flavor These additions can make your cake more exciting and unique. If you have dietary needs, here are some substitutions: - Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. - Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour for gluten-free needs. - Use egg replacements like flax eggs for a vegan option. These swaps help you enjoy the cake without worry. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure our cake bakes evenly. Next, take a medium skillet and melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Stir it continuously until it dissolves and begins to bubble. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Now, add the sliced apples, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir everything well. Cook this mixture for 5-7 minutes. The apples should soften but still hold their shape. After that, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Set this aside for later. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until it looks light and creamy, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of whole milk, stirring until it's well mixed. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently combine. A few lumps are okay; don’t overmix. Now, it’s time to combine our layers. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Pour the cooled apple mixture into the bottom of the pan. Spread it evenly, then arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern. Carefully pour the batter over the apples, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check if it's done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the pan and flip it over. The apple layer will rest on top. Allow the cake to cool slightly before you slice and serve. For this cake, I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. - Granny Smith: They are tart and hold their shape well. - Honeycrisp: They add sweetness and crunch. These apples balance the rich caramel flavor perfectly. To keep the bottom of your cake from getting soggy, follow these tips: - Cook the apples lightly: Only cook them until they soften a bit. - Use a non-stick pan: This helps the cake release better. - Cool slightly before flipping: Let the cake rest for 10 minutes. These steps keep the cake fluffy and light. Serve this cake warm or at room temperature for the best taste. Here are some fun serving ideas: - Top with whipped cream: This adds a creamy touch. - Pair with vanilla ice cream: The cold ice cream contrasts well. - Drizzle extra caramel sauce: This enhances the sweet flavor. These options make the cake even more tempting! {{image_4}} You can make your caramel apple cake even more special by adding nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a great crunch. Just sprinkle them on top of the apples before pouring in the cake batter. The nuts will toast as the cake bakes, giving you a lovely texture and flavor. This small change makes a big difference. To make a gluten-free version, you can swap out the all-purpose flour. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for binding. This way, everyone can enjoy the cake without gluten. Follow the same steps for the recipe, and you will have a moist cake that tastes just as good. You can change up the fruits based on the season. In the fall, use pears or figs. In the summer, peaches or berries work well. Just slice them thinly and follow the same steps as with the apples. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor to the cake. This keeps your dessert fresh and fun all year round. Store leftover caramel apple upside down cake in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Place the container in the fridge. The cake stays good for about three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze the cake, let it cool completely first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's warm. You can also use the microwave. Heat a slice for about 30 seconds on high. Enjoy it warm for the best taste! Yes, you can use other fruits! Pears, peaches, or even berries work well. Just make sure they are ripe. Each fruit brings its own taste and texture. Experiment to find your favorite combo! Check the cake at 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Overbaking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it! This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a twist, serve with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream. Enjoy it warm for the best taste! You learned how to make a tasty Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You also discovered fun variations and how to store leftovers. This cake is simple and can fit many tastes. Whether you try nuts or go gluten-free, the choices are endless. Enjoy making this treat for yourself or loved ones. Happy baking!

Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake with this easy-to-follow recipe! Learn how to create a sweet caramel apple topping that pairs perfectly with a moist cake base. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dessert at home, this treat will wow your family and friends. Don’t miss out—click through for the full recipe and make your own delicious masterpiece today! #CaramelAppleUpsideDownCake #FallBaking #DessertRecipes #HomeBaking
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced into thin wedges

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for greasing

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon fine salt

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs, at room temperature

1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apple Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium skillet, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the packed brown sugar and stir continuously until the mixture is fully dissolved and begins to bubble, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced apples, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the skillet, stirring well. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, until the apples begin to soften but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

    Arrange the Apples: Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Pour the caramelized apple mixture into the bottom of the pan, spreading it evenly. Take the apple slices and arrange them in a circular pattern, layering them if necessary for an attractive presentation.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

        Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually stir in the whole milk until well incorporated.

          Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined, being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are fine; do not overdo it.

            Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the prepared batter over the apple layer in the cake pan. Use a spatula to gently spread the batter evenly over the apples.

              Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

                Cool & Flip: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then place a serving plate upside down on top of the pan. Carefully flip the plate and pan over to remove the cake from the pan, allowing the apple layer to rest on top.

                  Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature. For an extra special treat, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8-10

                      - Presentation Tips: For added visual appeal, drizzle some extra caramel sauce around the plate before serving and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon for a decorative touch.

                        WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?