Warm, inviting, and decadent—this Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is more than just dessert. It’s the aroma of fall, the nostalgia of grandma’s kitchen, and the showstopper of any gathering, all baked into a single pan.
The classic upside-down cake has roots in retro comfort food, but this modern version adds new depth with seasonal apples and a velvety caramel glaze. The result is a stunning treat that flips beautifully onto your cake stand, glistening with golden apples and thick caramel.
Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, entertaining guests, or simply craving a comforting bake on a rainy day, this recipe will never fail you.
✔ Beginner-friendly: Easy-to-follow instructions ✔ Visually stunning: A caramel-glazed fruit topping you flip out of the pan ✔ Perfect texture: Moist, tender crumb beneath gooey apple layers ✔ Crowd-pleasing flavor: Warm spices + real caramel + tart-sweet apples ✔ No fancy equipment needed: Just a mixing bowl, spatula, and cake pan
Ingredients Overview
Let’s break down the essential elements:
For the Caramel Apple Topping
3 medium apples – peeled, cored, chopped (about 2½ cups)
½ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup brown sugar – packed
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Pinch of salt
For the Cake Batter
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter – softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
¼ cup whole milk
Choosing the Best Apples
The apple variety you choose will influence both texture and taste.
✅ Recommended:
Granny Smith – Tart, firm, holds shape well
Honeycrisp – Sweet and crisp, ideal for caramel
Braeburn – Balanced sweetness, slightly spiced
❌ Avoid:
Red Delicious – Too soft, becomes mushy when baked
Using a blend of tart and sweet apples brings out depth of flavor in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Caramel Apple Base
In a saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat.
Add ¾ cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
Stir until mixture is smooth and bubbling (about 3 minutes).
Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch cake pan.
Layer the chopped apples evenly over the caramel.
💡 Tip: Press apples gently into the caramel to remove air pockets and create an even top.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, sift together:
Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract.
Mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Carefully spread the cake batter over the apple-caramel layer in the pan.
Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Flip and Serve
Run a knife around the pan edges to loosen the cake.
Place a serving plate over the pan.
Quickly and confidently flip the cake upside down.
Let it rest for 2 minutes, then lift the pan slowly.
🎉 Admire the glossy, golden apple topping!
Expert Tips for Success
✅ Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and milk are not cold.
✅ Use a heavy-bottom pan: Prevents caramel from burning.
✅ Line pan with parchment: For easy removal (optional but helpful).
✅ Don’t rush the flip: Let cake rest before inverting to keep the topping intact.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
🧁 At Room Temperature:
Cover with foil or a cake dome.
Stays fresh for up to 2 days.
🧊 In the Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Warm slices in microwave for 15–20 seconds.
❄ In the Freezer:
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap + foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in fridge or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
~340
Total Fat
15g
Saturated Fat
9g
Sugar
35g
Carbohydrates
50g
Protein
4g
Fiber
2g
🥄 Values are approximate and based on 10 slices.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a boxed cake mix? Yes! A vanilla or yellow cake mix works. Just pour it over the apple-caramel base.
Q2: What if I don’t have sour cream? Use plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
Q3: Why is my cake sticking? Use parchment paper or ensure the pan is generously greased.
Q4: Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q5: Can I make it vegan? Try plant-based butter, dairy-free yogurt, almond milk, and flax eggs.
Variations and Creative Twists
🥧 Apple-Pear Combo: Use half apples, half pears.
🍊 Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the batter.
🥜 Nut Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over caramel before adding apples.
🍫 Caramel Chocolate Swirl: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise.
🍓 Berry Boost: Layer thinly sliced strawberries under the apples for a tart twist.
Serving Suggestions
🍨 Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
☕ Enjoy with coffee or spiced chai
🍯 Drizzle extra caramel or a spoonful of whipped cream
🧀 Pair with a sharp cheese board for a sweet-salty contrast
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake is the kind of dessert that never disappoints. Rich in flavor and nostalgia, it’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you serve it warm on a chilly fall evening or bring it to your next family gathering, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast.
Simple enough for beginners, stunning enough for celebrations—this is the only apple cake recipe you’ll ever need.
