Name: Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; ½ cup light brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt; ½ cup pecans, lightly crushed; ¾ pound Honeycrisp apples (about 2 large apples; peeled, cored, and diced); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ¾ cup cake flour; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature; ½ cup light brown sugar; 1 large egg; ½ cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 85 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, you simply must try this Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and rich, buttery caramel with just the right hint of sea salt to make every bite sing. Imagine a golden cake layered over a luscious bed of soft apples and sticky caramel, finished with crunchy pecans for texture – it’s a showstopper that fills your kitchen with the most comforting fall aromas. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or craving a cozy treat any day, this recipe brings pure joy and satisfaction in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A small white cup filled with rich, smooth espresso with a light brown crema layer on top sits at the center of a round, slightly tarnished silver tray. To the right of the cup, a silver spoon with coffee stains rests on the tray, showing some dark coffee marks on its bowl. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and elegant touch to the simple coffee setup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each one plays an essential role: from the sweet and buttery caramel base to the warmly spiced apple topping, and the soft, fluffy cake that holds it all together. Together, they create a symphony of flavors and textures you won’t want to miss.

4 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and helps create the luscious caramel base.
½ cup light brown sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness to the caramel and cake.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses both caramel and cake with comforting warmth and spice.
2 tablespoons heavy cream: Creates a smooth, creamy texture in the caramel.
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt: Balances sweetness with a delicate crunch and enhances flavor.
½ cup pecans (lightly crushed): Adds a nutty crunch to the caramel layer.
¾ pound Honeycrisp apples (peeled, cored, and diced): Provides a crisp, juicy sweetness and lovely texture.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens the apples just perfectly without overpowering them.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps apples fresh and brightens the flavor.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the apple topping so it’s not watery.
¾ cup cake flour: Creates a tender and soft crumb for the cake.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Complements the cinnamon with a touch of aromatic spice.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and enhances all flavors within the cake batter.
4 tablespoons butter (room temperature): For creaming with sugar, giving the cake its soft texture.
½ cup light brown sugar: Sweetens the cake with a mild caramel flavor.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
½ cup whole milk: Moisturizes the batter for a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a lovely aromatic note.
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional): The perfect, creamy accompaniment when serving.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Salted Cinnamon Caramel

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and preparing your cake pan. Melt the butter in a small pot, then stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon, cooking gently until the mixture thickens and turns a rich amber color. Finish by whisking in heavy cream and flaky sea salt which transforms it into a silky, flavorful caramel. Fold in the crushed pecans right before pouring this heavenly mixture into your prepared pan and chilling it briefly so it sets into a solid, sticky layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Next, toss your diced Honeycrisp apples with brown sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon. This step balances sweetness with tang and keeps the apples from releasing too much moisture while baking, assuring a perfect texture. Set the mixture aside and let those flavors mingle while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a small bowl, sift together your dry ingredients—cake flour, cinnamon, baking powder, nutmeg, cloves, and kosher salt. Then, in a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg, followed by alternating additions of the dry ingredients and milk to keep the batter tender. Finish with a splash of vanilla for a lovely aromatic touch. Remember, it’s important to mix just until combined to maintain that soft, airy texture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Cake

Retrieve your pan from the refrigerator and gently layer the apple mixture over the set caramel. Pour the batter carefully over the apples, smoothing it evenly. Bake the cake for about 45 to 50 minutes until golden with a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean. Let the cake rest at room temperature so it settles—it’ll be warm and inviting when it’s time to flip.

Step 5: Flip and Serve

Place a large serving plate over the cake pan then confidently flip it to reveal your gorgeous salted caramel apple topping glistening beautifully. Peel away the parchment paper and admire your work! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream and maybe an extra sprinkle of cinnamon. This moment is pure magic, every time.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

A round dessert with two main layers is shown on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark brown, shiny, and moist-looking with a sticky texture that drips slightly over the edge. The top layer is thick, swirled white cream or frosting spread evenly over the dessert, sprinkled with fine light brown powder all over. Dark brown round chocolate pieces are placed evenly on top of the white creamy layer, with three in the center clustered together and others spaced around the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe even further, consider topping each slice with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top adds a professional finish and enhances those warm, comforting flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced tea or a rich coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a more festive occasion, serve alongside a spiced cider or a glass of chilled dessert wine to complement the sweet and salty notes in the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe as mini cakes in individual ramekins for elegant party servings. You could also double the recipe and bake it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic look that’s perfect for family-style sharing. Adding a drizzle of extra caramel sauce or a handful of toasted pecans on top just before serving takes it to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this delicious cake, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to savor those lovely flavors without worry.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap followed by foil and place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Warm your leftover cake gently in the oven at 300ºF for about 10 to 15 minutes to revive its moistness and caramel gooeyness. A quick zap in the microwave also works, just watch carefully so it doesn’t dry out. Serving slightly warm brings back that freshly-baked feeling every time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji also work wonderfully. Just choose apples that hold their shape well during baking.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free baking mix of the same quantity. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help maintain texture.

Can I prepare the caramel layer ahead of time?

Your caramel and pecan layer can be made and set in the pan a day ahead, covered tightly, and refrigerated. When ready to bake, simply assemble the apple and batter layers on top and proceed as directed.

What if I don’t have flaky sea salt?

Regular coarse sea salt or kosher salt works fine, though flaky sea salt gives a better texture and bursts of saltiness. If you only have fine salt, use a little less to avoid over-salting.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking when flipping?

Make sure to grease your pan well and line it with parchment paper, as this recipe instructs. Letting the cake rest slightly before flipping helps too. A gentle, confident flip ensures the beautiful topping releases perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe truly feels like an edible slice of happiness. It’s one of those desserts you’ll want to bake again and again – not just because it tastes amazing, but because it fills your home with warmth and invites loved ones to gather around. Give it a try and add a new favorite to your baking repertoire!