Dive into the cozy flavors of fall with our irresistible Spiced Apple Upside Down Cake. This dessert masterpiece combines layers of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a golden brown sugar glaze, topped with a moist and aromatic spiced cake. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart apples, warm spices, and buttery cake—a true celebration of the season’s bounty.
While Spiced Apple Upside Down Cake is often associated with fall and harvest seasons, its delightful flavors and cozy appeal make it a perfect dessert choice year-round. Despite being traditionally enjoyed during autumn when apples are in abundance, this cake can be savored off-season as well, offering a comforting and nostalgic treat any time of the year. Plus, your home will smell delightful!
Our Spiced Apple Upside Down Cake offers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. The caramelized apples infuse each bite with a sweet and tangy essence, complemented by the warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom in the cake layer. The tender crumb of the cake, enriched with sour cream and vanilla yogurt, provides a moist and decadent contrast to the crisp apple topping. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, this dessert is a comforting indulgence perfect for any occasion.
Here are the ingredients:
For the Spiced Cake Layer:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tbsp vanilla yogurt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
For the Apple Layer:
- 3-4 Granny Smith apples
- 2-3 honey crisp apples
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 6 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Granny Smith apples are known for their tartness and firm texture, which holds up well during baking. Their tart flavor adds a bright and refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake, creating a balanced and dynamic taste profile. Additionally, Granny Smith apples retain their shape when cooked, providing a satisfying bite in every slice of the cake.
On the other hand, Honeycrisp apples are prized for their crisp texture and sweet, juicy flesh. Their natural sweetness adds depth and richness to the apple layer of the cake, enhancing its overall flavor profile. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Honeycrisp apples creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both complex and satisfying.
Together, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples contribute to the deliciously spiced apple layer of the cake, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dessert during fall or as a delightful treat year-round, the pairing of these two apple varieties adds depth and complexity to this classic recipe.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Apple Layer: Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith and honey crisp apples. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until evenly coated. Add the two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice over the sliced apples. This step not only adds a subtle citrusy brightness to the apples but also helps prevent them from browning, ensuring they retain their vibrant color during baking.
- In a skillet, melt the six tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the coated apple slices to the skillet and cook for several minutes, until they begin to soften and caramelize. Remove from heat and arrange the apple slices in the greased cake pan in a single layer around and in the center. You can of course pile any remaining apple slices on top. Pour the caramel all over the layer of apples.
- Prepare the Spiced Cake Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and ground cloves. It’s essential to whisk the dry ingredients together first to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices. Once whisked, sift the dry ingredients to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth batter. I also whisk an additional time immediately after sifting.
- Using a stand or hand mixer, or separate bowl and whisk, beat the 1/2 cup of butter and sugar for several minutes and then incorporate the eggs (one at a time) until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and sour cream and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the yogurt and applesauce, mixing with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged apple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter or cake stand. Gently remove the pan to reveal the beautiful apple topping.
- Dust the Spiced Apple Upside Down Cake with powdered sugar before serving. Slice and enjoy this delightful autumn dessert with family and friends. For an extra indulgent treat, serve slices of the cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
I hope you get a chance to make this wonderful dessert! If you love apple pie and spiced cake, this delicious fusion is for you!
