Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it feels special without being complicated. I enjoy the way the apples caramelize while the cake bakes, and the scent of cinnamon fills my kitchen. I also love that it’s perfect for gatherings—I can make it ahead, invert it, and serve it warm for a rustic yet elegant dessert.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the topping:
2 medium-sized apples (I used 2 golden delicious)
2 teaspoons lemon juice
¼ cup butter
⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the cake:
1⅓ cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup butter (melted and cooled)
⅔ cup apple juice (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch cake pan (at least 2 inches deep) and set aside.

2. In a small saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Whisk until combined, then cook for 1 minute while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat, stir in cinnamon, and pour into the prepared pan. Let cool slightly.

3. Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch slices. Toss them with lemon juice, then arrange decoratively over the cooled caramel in the pan.

4. In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.

5. In a separate large bowl, whisk together apple juice, vanilla, and egg until smooth. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.

6. Carefully spread the batter over the apples without disturbing their arrangement.

7. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.

8. Cool the cake on a rack for 15 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate while still warm. Let the caramel and juices drip down the sides—it makes the cake extra indulgent.

9. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 10 people. The prep time is 20 minutes, baking takes 30–40 minutes, and the total time is about 50 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes like to use honeycrisp or granny smith apples for a slightly tart contrast. I also enjoy swapping apple juice for apple cider to boost the flavor. Around the holidays, I sprinkle a little nutmeg into the batter or add a splash of spiced rum to the caramel for extra warmth.

Storage/Reheating

I keep this cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to bring back that just-baked taste.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, I like baking it a few hours before serving, then reheating slices just before dessert.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I prefer peeling them for the best texture, but if I’m in a rush, leaving the skins on works too.

Can I use a springform pan?

I don’t recommend it since the caramel may leak, but a deep cake pan works perfectly.

What kind of apples work best?

I enjoy using golden delicious, honeycrisp, or granny smith depending on whether I want sweet or tart flavors.

Can I use apple cider instead of apple juice?

Yes, cider gives the cake a deeper apple flavor, which I love in the fall.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking when inverting?

I make sure to grease the pan well and let the cake cool for about 15 minutes before flipping—it usually releases easily.

Can I add nuts to this cake?

Yes, I like sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel before adding the apples.

How do I know when the cake is done?

I insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, I’ve had good results using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Is this cake best served warm or cold?

I love it warm because the caramel is soft and gooey, but it’s still delicious at room temperature.

Conclusion

I love baking this Apple Upside Down Cake whenever I want a cozy dessert that feels both homey and impressive. The tender cinnamon cake paired with caramelized apples makes every bite comforting and flavorful. It’s a simple yet stunning cake that I come back to again and again.