This Apple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the perfect combination of caramelized apples and soft, moist cake. With its buttery, cinnamon-flavored apple topping, this cake is a comforting treat that’s simple to make and ideal for any occasion. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that everyone will love.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- Eggs: 1 large
- Sugar: 40 grams (3 tablespoons)
- Salt: A pinch
- Vanilla Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable Oil: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Milk: 150 ml (2/3 cup)
- All-Purpose Flour: 150 grams (1 1/4 cups)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
For the Apple Topping:
- Apples: 2 medium, peeled, cored, and sliced
- Sugar: 40 grams (3 tablespoons)
- Butter: 20 grams (1 1/2 tablespoons)
- Cinnamon (optional): 1/2 teaspoon
Directions
Prepare the Apples:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the sliced apples and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon (if using).
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg with sugar, salt, and vanilla sugar until frothy.
- Add the vegetable oil and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Assemble the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Arrange the caramelized apples in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Pour the batter over the apples, spreading evenly with a spatula.
Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate and remove the parchment paper.
Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.
- Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best results.
- Line the cake pan with parchment paper to prevent the apples from sticking.
- Ensure the batter is not overmixed to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Check the cake’s doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.
- Let the cake cool slightly before inverting to avoid breaking the apple layer.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Provide dietary fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestion and immune health.
- Milk: Adds calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Eggs: Rich in protein and essential nutrients like choline.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No, contains eggs and milk
- Gluten-Free: No, contains all-purpose flour
- Dairy-Free: No, contains butter and milk
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy schedules.
- Customizable: Swap apples with other fruits like pears or peaches.
- Versatile: Suitable for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- Deliciously Comforting: Combines caramelized apples with soft, moist cake for a satisfying treat.
Conclusion
This Apple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of caramelized apples paired with a tender, moist cake. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake is a versatile treat perfect for any occasion. Try it today and discover why it’s a timeless favorite that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different fruit instead of apples? Yes, substitute with pears, peaches, or pineapples. Adjust cooking time to ensure the fruit is tender.
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the texture may be denser. Mixing with half all-purpose flour balances the texture.
- How do I make this cake dairy-free? Replace butter with dairy-free margarine and use plant-based milk.
- How do I prevent sticking? Line the pan with parchment paper and grease it generously.
- What can I use instead of vanilla sugar? Use regular sugar with ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for a similar flavor.
- Can I add nuts? Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and flavor.
- How do I make the cake fluffier? Ensure the batter is not overmixed and use fresh baking powder.
- Can I make this cake ahead? Yes, store covered at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a day.
- What apples work best? Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples hold their shape and add balanced sweetness.
- How do I reheat the cake? Microwave slices for 15-20 seconds or warm in an oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes.
Enjoy this comforting and delicious classic dessert that never fails to impress!