Name: Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-484957H27M18S
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the topping:; Apples, peeled and thinly sliced; Butter; Brown sugar; Ground cinnamon; For the cake:; All-purpose flour; Baking powder; Salt; Ground cinnamon; Ground nutmeg; Butter (softened); Granulated sugar; Eggs; Vanilla extract; Milk

This apple upside down cake is a warm, buttery dessert topped with tender caramelized apples. The cake itself is moist and lightly spiced, creating the perfect match for the sweet, glossy topping. It’s cozy, elegant, and one of my favorite ways to celebrate apple season.

Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cake looks stunning straight out of the pan with those caramelized apple slices. It’s easy to make and brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and apples in one beautiful dessert. It’s perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy weekend bake.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the topping:

Apples, peeled and sliced thin
Butter
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon

For the cake:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon and nutmeg
Butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Milk

directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
For the topping, I melt butter in a pan, stir in brown sugar and cinnamon, and pour it into the bottom of the cake pan. I layer the sliced apples neatly over the sugar mixture.
For the cake, I whisk the dry ingredients together in a bowl.
In a separate bowl, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. I beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, mixing until just combined.
I pour the batter over the apples and spread it evenly.
I bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
I let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes, then invert it carefully onto a serving plate.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings. Prep time is around 20 minutes, and bake time is 40–45 minutes. I let it cool for about 15 minutes before flipping and serving.

Variations

Sometimes I use pears or a mix of apples and pears for a different flavor. I’ve also added chopped nuts to the topping for crunch. A little ginger or allspice in the cake batter brings a bolder spice profile. For a shortcut, I’ve even used a spiced cake mix.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a low oven.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use?

I like using firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji—they hold their shape and don’t get mushy.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve made it a day ahead. I just reheat slightly before serving to refresh the topping.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I usually do for a softer texture, but if I’m short on time, I’ve left the peels on and it still turns out great.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, I’ve frozen it successfully. I wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I keep the cake from sticking to the pan?

I make sure to grease the pan well and let the cake cool slightly before flipping. A nonstick cake pan also helps.

Conclusion

This apple upside down cake is everything I love about cozy baking—warm spices, buttery apples, and a moist, flavorful crumb. It’s impressive enough for guests but easy enough for a casual weekend treat. Once I flip it out of the pan and see those caramelized apples glistening, I know it’s going to be a hit.