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–+ servings
Benjamin

Quick and Cozy Spiced Apple Upside-Down Cake

Bring the cozy flavors of fall into your kitchen with this Spiced Apple Upside-Down Cake! Topped with caramelized apples and infused with warm spices, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, each slice offers a delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and moist cake.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Topping:
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter cut into pieces
  • ½ cup light brown sugar packed
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 large tart baking apples peeled, cored, and sliced thin
For the Cake:
  • 1 ½ cups cake flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • ⅓ cup apple cider or apple juice
  • 1 cup tart baking apples peeled, cored, and finely diced

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. Spray a 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper. Spray the parchment lightly.
Step 2: Make the Topping
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  2. Stir constantly for 3–4 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and bubbles lightly.
  3. Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared cake pan and tilt to spread evenly.
  4. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern over the caramel, pressing them lightly into the mixture.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually mix in half the dry ingredients until just combined. Add the apple cider, then mix in the remaining dry ingredients.
  5. Fold in the diced apples gently, ensuring even distribution.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
  1. Carefully pour the cake batter over the apples in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, avoiding disturbing the apple arrangement.
  2. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Invert
  1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
  2. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert to release the cake. Remove the parchment paper and reposition any apples that may have shifted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Notes

  • Apple Choice: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best for their tartness and ability to hold shape.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
  • Make Ahead: This cake stays fresh for 2 days at room temperature or up to 4 days refrigerated.

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