Apple Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Sauce

Name: Apple Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temperature); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup milk (room temperature); 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)

75 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

A delightful apple upside-down cake topped with a rich caramel sauce, perfect for any dessert lover.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The apple upside-down cake with caramel sauce is a dessert that combines the rustic flavour of apples with the sweet, buttery richness of caramel. This classic dessert is a favourite in many households, offering a beautiful presentation with its glazed apple topping. Originating from the traditional upside-down cake method, this recipe adds a touch of elegance with the inclusion of homemade caramel sauce. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the caramel sauce

In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it boil until it turns a deep amber colour. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let cool.

Pro tip: Be cautious as the caramel will bubble vigorously when the cream is added.

Prepare the cake batter

In a bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In another bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Pro tip: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.

Combine dry and wet ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.

Pro tip: Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender cake.

Arrange apples and caramel

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan, pour half of the caramel sauce, then arrange the apple slices in a single layer over the caramel.

Pro tip: Overlap the apple slices slightly for a decorative effect.

Add batter and bake

Pour the cake batter over the apples, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Pro tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

Cool and invert the cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then invert onto a serving platter. Let it cool slightly before serving with remaining caramel sauce.

Pro tip: Use a large plate to catch any excess caramel when inverting.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your apples are evenly sliced for a consistent texture.
Use a non-stick pan for easy release of the cake.
Let the cake cool slightly before flipping to avoid breakage.
Warm the caramel sauce before serving for optimal flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a gateau renversé aux pommes?

To make a gateau renversé aux pommes, layer apple slices and caramel in a pan, top with cake batter, bake, then invert.

What apples are best for an upside-down cake?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are best for their firmness and balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce, but homemade offers a richer flavour.

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

Ensure the pan is well-greased and run a knife around the edges before inverting.

Can this cake be made in advance?

Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead; store it in an airtight container and reheat the sauce before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This apple upside-down cake is best served warm, with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat. To make ahead, bake the cake and prepare the caramel sauce up to a day in advance. Store the cake in an airtight container and reheat the sauce before serving. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.