Apple Pie Upside Down Cake

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Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on 17 October 2025

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Apple Pie Upside Down Cake

As the crisp air of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as the sweet aroma of baked apples filling your kitchen. The Apple Pie Upside Down Cake is not only a delightful twist on the classic dessert but an homage to the flavors that encapsulate the season. This cake melds two beloved treats: the warming spice of apple pie and the soft texture of cake, all in one bite.

Each slice reveals a stunning layer of caramelized apples, inviting you to dig in. With its combination of buttery sweetness and classic spices, this dessert is perfect for gatherings or cozy family evenings at home. Whether paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake will transport you to a nostalgic place where warm pies fresh out of the oven reign supreme.

Ingredients

2 cups peeled and sliced apples
These apples provide the star flavor in your dessert, bringing their natural sweetness and a delightful texture once cooked. Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties for a balanced taste.
1 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor that syncs beautifully with the apples. It helps create that luscious, gooey layer on the bottom of the cake.
1/2 cup butter
Butter is not just for flavor; it contributes to the cake’s tenderness. This ingredient also plays a key role in creating a rich, buttery base for the caramel sauce with the brown sugar.
1 cup granulated sugar
This sugar sweetens the cake batter, balancing the richer flavors of the apples and brown sugar. It also helps create a light, airy texture in the cake.

2 cups all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour is the backbone of your cake, providing structure. It helps keep the cake together and gives it that inviting crumb.
1 tbsp baking powder
The baking powder is essential for leavening your cake, allowing it to rise beautifully as it bakes. A fresh agent is crucial for a light and airy texture.
1/2 tsp salt
Salt enhances all the other flavors in the cake, creating a well-rounded taste. It’s a small, yet extremely important, element in baking.

2 large eggs
Eggs contribute moisture, richness, and stability to your cake. They help with binding the ingredients together, creating an ideal batter consistency.
1 cup milk
Milk adds moisture and richness while helping to create a soft, tender crumb in the final cake. It brings all the dry ingredients together into a cohesive batter.
1 tsp vanilla extract
This essential ingredient adds depth and a pleasant aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cake and complementing the spices used.

1 tsp cinnamon
Cinnamon evokes warmth and adds a delightful spice that elevates both the apples and the cake batter. It’s a must-have in any apple dessert recipe.

Directions & Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating your oven ensures that the cake bakes evenly right from the start. This is essential for achieving a good rise and uniform texture, so don’t skip this step!
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir in the sliced apples and cinnamon, cooking until the apples are tender.
This step builds a luscious, caramelized layer that will form the top of your cake once inverted. Cooking the apples beforehand releases their juices and flavors, making for a delicious topping.

Pour the apple mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
Properly greasing the pan prevents the caramelized apples from sticking, allowing the cake to release beautifully. Evenly layering the apple mixture helps in achieving a stunning presentation after inverting.
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
This process brings together the dry ingredients with the wet ones, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated. A smooth batter means a consistent texture throughout the cake.
Pour the batter over the apples in the baking pan.
Gently spreading the batter avoids displacing the apple topping too much. This ensures that the apples stay well-distributed underneath for a beautiful presentation when turned out.

Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Baking time is crucial for achieving the right texture; underbaking may lead to a dense cake, while overbaking can dry it out. Keep an eye on it, especially towards the end of the baking time.
Allow to cool for a few minutes, then invert onto a serving plate to serve.
Letting it cool slightly helps in easier handling and minimizes the risk of tearing the cake. Inverting at the right time helps showcase the beautiful apple topping!

The Perfect Pairing

While the Apple Pie Upside Down Cake stands beautifully alone, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to another level. The creaminess of the ice cream melts into the warm cake, enhancing every comforting bite. Consider a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent experience that amplifies its rich flavors.

Cake Variations for Every Taste

Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or even the addition of nuts. Pecans or walnuts can add a satisfying crunch to your cake, while using honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples can build a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. Each variation brings its own spin to the classic flavor profile.

Baking Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Apple Pie Upside Down Cake isn’t just about following the recipe—it’s also about trust in your senses. Check for the right consistency in your batter and the tenderness of the apples. Don’t hesitate to use a toothpick to check for doneness; it’s a reliable way to ensure your cake is just right.

FAQs

Can I use another type of apple?
Absolutely! Try a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, for a more complex flavor.

What can I do if my cake is too dense?
A dense cake may result from overmixing the batter. Be gentle and just mix until combined, or ensure you’re using fresh baking powder for adequate leavening.

Can I substitute almond milk for regular milk?
Yes! Any milk alternative can work, as long as it’s unsweetened. Just adjust your sugar content slightly if using sweetened options.

My cake turned out too sweet. What can I do?
To balance out the sweetness, consider serving it with tart yogurt or a drizzle of lemon juice to offset the flavors.

How do I store leftover cake?
Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it wrapped tightly for up to a month.

Can I make this cake in advance?
While it’s best fresh, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Store it properly; just warm it up before serving for the best texture.

Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, doubling the recipe works perfectly! Just ensure you adjust your baking pan size and corresponding baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie Upside Down Cake encapsulates everything we love about autumn desserts, filling your home with warmth and inviting aromas. With layers of sweet, tender apples and a delicious cake base, it’s a crowd-pleaser that seamlessly marries the flavors of classic apple pie and soft cake.

Make it for a gathering or just for yourself—you deserve a slice of this seasonal delight. Its unique twist makes it memorable and satisfying, sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Enjoy each tender bite and savor the comfort it brings!

Apple Pie Upside Down Cake

Hi I'm Stacy

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Apple Pie Upside Down Cake

Ingredients

Directions & Preparation

The Perfect Pairing

Cake Variations for Every Taste

Baking Tips for Success

FAQs

Conclusion