Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

I absolutely love this Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe because it turns out beautifully moist and warmly spiced every single time. The caramelized apples on top create a glossy, irresistible layer that makes this cake feel special, yet it’s surprisingly simple to throw together. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family dessert or impressing friends at a brunch, this cake always steals the show.

When I first tried this Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe, I was drawn to how perfectly the cinnamon and nutmeg complemented the sweet apples without overpowering them. You’ll find that this recipe strikes a great balance between sweet and spiced, and it’s a fantastic way to use up fresh apples when they’re in season. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and comes together with easy pantry staples—what’s not to love?

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together to build layers of flavor and texture that make this Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe so special. The combination of brown sugar and vegan butter gives a luscious base for the apples, while the spices add that cozy touch that makes it all feel like fall in a slice.

• Vegan Butter: Use a good quality butter that melts smoothly for the caramel topping.
• Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds deep molasses notes that pair perfectly with apples.
• Ground Cinnamon: Essential for that classic apple-spice flavor.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: A touch in both topping and batter for depth and aroma.
• Apples: Medium-sized and peeled, I like firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture.
• All Purpose Flour: The base for the cake; you can substitute gluten-free flour if needed.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness in the cake batter.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise nice and fluffy.
• Ground Nutmeg: Adds an extra warm spice note that enhances the cinnamon.
• Salt: Just a pinch to bring all the flavors together.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds moisture and helps keep the cake tender.
• Unsweetened Soy Milk: Or any plant milk you have on hand works well.

Variations

I love encouraging you to make this recipe your own—it’s flexible and welcoming to tweaks. Over the years, I’ve tried swapping apples for pears or adding chopped nuts on top for a little crunch, and it always turns out tasty.

• Pear Upside Down Cake: I once tried ripe, firm pear slices instead of apples, which added a lovely mellow sweetness and changed things up perfectly.
• Gluten-Free Version: Using gluten-free all-purpose flour works great if you want to avoid gluten, just be mindful to check rising agents match your flour.
• Nut Topping: Sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on the brown sugar layer before adding apples gives a delightful texture contrast.
• Spice Boost: Adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger enhances the warming flavor profile for extra cozy vibes.

How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Apple Topping

Start by melting the vegan butter and brown sugar together in a small saucepan over medium heat. I like to whisk constantly for about a minute until everything’s melted and glossy—this helps prevent any sugar from burning. Once off the heat, whisk in cinnamon and vanilla so those warm spices get evenly distributed. Pour this warm sauce into your prepared 9-inch buttered cake pan, then neatly arrange your apple slices on top. I find layering the apples slightly overlapping creates that pretty, classic look after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, granulated and brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures your spices and leavening are evenly mixed throughout the cake. Next, add your melted vegan butter (or oil if you prefer), applesauce, soy milk, and vanilla. Stir gently—just until combined is key here because overmixing can make the cake dense. The batter will be somewhat thick but still pourable, so don’t worry if it feels a bit heavy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter evenly over the arranged apple slices in your cake pan. I like to tap the pan lightly on the counter to settle the batter and avoid air pockets. Bake in your preheated 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes. I always set a timer for 35 minutes and then check by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This step is crucial so you don’t end up with a soggy middle or a dry cake.

Step 4: Cool and Flip

Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps the caramel set slightly, so when you flip it out, the apple topping sticks perfectly to the cake and doesn’t slide off. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate—if you’re nervous about sticking, run a knife gently around the edges before flipping. I remember the first time I forgot this step, and a few apples stayed behind, so don’t skip it!

How to Serve Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top—both melt slowly over the warm cake, adding creaminess without overpowering the apples. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or toasted pecans for texture and aroma. This simple touch really brings the cake to life.

Side Dishes

For a cozy afternoon treat, I serve this cake alongside a hot cup of chai tea or coffee. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad if you want something lighter on the side, or even a scoop of lemon sorbet to cut through the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve individual slices garnished with caramel sauce drizzled in a delicate pattern on the plate and a sprig of fresh mint. Another fun option is making mini upside down cakes in ramekins for an elegant single-serving dessert. Trust me, your guests will be impressed by the stunning presentation that’s easier than it looks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I recommend storing leftover cake in an airtight container inside the refrigerator; it keeps well for up to 3 days. I usually cover mine tightly with plastic wrap and then a lid to maintain moisture. The cake might firm up a bit chilling but warms back up perfectly.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but I prefer slicing the cake first. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When I’ve thawed frozen slices, they still taste great and keep the tender texture if warmed gently.

Reheating

For reheating, a quick zap in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warming in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes works wonderfully to bring back that fresh-baked feel. I like to add a little scoop of ice cream right after warming—it’s pure magic.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe has a special place in my kitchen because it’s a reminder of cozy family gatherings and the joy of simple desserts made with love. I genuinely believe you’ll enjoy making and sharing it just as much as I do. So next time you want an impressive but easy dessert, give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to treat.

Print