Introduction
Apple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramelized apples with a light and fluffy cake. This unique treat is sure to impress at any gathering or simply as a cozy indulgence at home. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Unsalted butter: 150g
Brown sugar: 200g
Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): 3 large apples
All-purpose flour: 250g
Baking powder: 10g
Salt: 2g
Granulated sugar: 200g
Eggs: 2 large
Vanilla extract: 5ml
Whole milk: 120ml
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). As you prepare, grease a 23cm (9-inch) cake pan with a generous amount of unsalted butter to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel
In a medium saucepan, melt 100g of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will become a luscious caramel base for your apples. Pour this warm mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Arrange the Apples
Take the sliced, peeled, and cored apples and arrange them neatly over the caramel in the pan. Feel free to overlap them slightly in a circular pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat the remaining 50g of unsalted butter together with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a light texture in your cake.
Step 6: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract, and mix until blended.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, making sure not to overmix to keep the cake fluffy.
Step 8: Pour the Batter
Carefully pour the batter over the arranged apples in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Step 9: Bake
Place your cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when done.
Step 10: Cool and Invert
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The caramelized apples should now be beautifully displayed on top.
Notes
Storage
Allow the cake to completely cool before storing. It can be covered and kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Apple Upside-Down Cake warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the warm cake.
Customization Options
Enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter, or consider adding raisins or nuts for added texture. For a caramel sauce drizzle, warm up some additional caramel and pour it over the cake just before serving.
Cook Techniques
Caramelization
Begin by melting butter and brown sugar over medium heat to create a caramel layer. Stir until smooth to ensure a rich flavor.
Layering Fruits
Neatly arrange thinly sliced apples over the caramel in the cake pan. This not only enhances presentation but also allows the apples to soften and soak in the caramel flavor during baking.
Mixing Batter
When combining wet and dry ingredients, alternate adding flour and milk. This method helps to maintain the fluffiness of the batter without overmixing.
Proper Baking
Bake in a preheated oven and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean to ensure the cake is fully cooked.
Inverting the Cake
Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before carefully inverting it onto a serving plate. This step is crucial for a successful upside-down presentation.
FAQ
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or pineapples, but adjust the cooking time based on the fruit’s moisture content.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended to ensure a smooth texture in the cake, but if you prefer a more rustic feel, you can leave the skins on.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with the cake?
This cake is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Conclusion
This delightful Apple Upside-Down Cake is sure to impress with its caramelized apple topping and fluffy texture. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dessert, it’s a treat that brings warmth and comfort. Enjoy it warm, ideally paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly unforgettable experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Caramel-Pear Upside-Down Cake
Swap apples for ripe pears and use caramel sauce for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Spiced Apple Upside-Down Cake
Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the apples perfectly.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Use sliced pineapple and maraschino cherries for a tropical variation that’s equally delightful.
Apple-Cinnamon Muffins
Replicate the flavors of the upside-down cake in muffin form, adding apple chunks and a cinnamon sugar topping.
Maple-Glazed Apple Tart
Create a tart with a flaky pastry base, topped with apples and drizzled with a sweet maple glaze for a delightful dessert.
Chocolate-Apple Upside-Down Cake
Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramelized apples.
