There’s something magical about the combination of warm caramel and tender apples. Skillet Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake takes that magic to the next level with its buttery, moist cake and beautifully caramelized apple topping. It’s the perfect dessert for fall evenings, family gatherings, or any time you want to indulge in a little sweetness.

Why You’ll Love Skillet Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake

This dessert is as comforting as it is delicious. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Perfect Fall Flavors: Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg complement the caramelized apples beautifully.
• Visually Stunning: The golden apple topping makes this cake look as good as it tastes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Baking it in a skillet simplifies the process and enhances the flavor.
• Easy to Serve: No need for frosting; the caramel and apples provide all the sweetness you need.

Ingredients for Skillet Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

Component	Ingredients	Measurements
Caramel Layer	Unsalted butter	1/4 cup
	Brown sugar (packed)	1/2 cup
	Ground cinnamon	1/4 tsp
	Ground nutmeg	1/4 tsp
	Medium apples (peeled, sliced)	2-3
Cake Batter	All-purpose flour	1 1/2 cups
	Baking powder	1 1/2 tsp
	Ground cinnamon	1 tsp
	Salt	1/2 tsp
	Ground nutmeg	1/4 tsp
	Unsalted butter (softened)	1/2 cup
	Granulated sugar	1/2 cup
	Brown sugar (packed)	1/2 cup
	Large eggs	2
	Vanilla extract	1 tsp
	Whole milk	1/3 cup
	Medium apple (diced, optional)	1

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel Layer

1. Melt the Butter: In a skillet or saucepan, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the Sugar and Spices: Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly.
3. Arrange the Apples: Pour the caramel mixture into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Arrange the sliced apples in an even layer on top of the caramel. Refrigerate while preparing the cake batter.

2. Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Apples (Optional): If desired, fold in the diced apple for extra flavor and texture.

3. Assemble and Bake

1. Pour Batter Over Apples: Remove the caramel and apple layer from the refrigerator. Pour the cake batter evenly over the top.
2. Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Flip and Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. Flip the Cake: Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel and apples to become the stunning topping.
3. Serve Warm: Slice and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips for Success

• Even Apple Slices: For a polished look, slice the apples evenly so they cook uniformly.
• Don’t Skip Cooling: Let the cake cool slightly before flipping to avoid breaking the layers.
• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best during baking.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	320
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	3g
Sugar	30g

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a skillet instead of a cake pan? A: Absolutely! Baking the cake in a cast-iron skillet enhances the caramelization and flavor.

Q: What’s the best type of apple for this recipe? A: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work wonderfully for their firmness and tart-sweet flavor.

Q: Can I prepare this cake in advance? A: Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead. Reheat slices gently before serving for the best texture.

Q: How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan? A: Ensure the pan is well-greased, and allow the cake to cool slightly before flipping.

Q: Can I add nuts to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer adds a delightful crunch.

Q: What can I use instead of brown sugar? A: Light brown sugar or a mix of granulated sugar with a touch of molasses can work as substitutes.

Your Turn to Bake!

Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to bring this Skillet Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake to life. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this dessert is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your masterpiece and share it with others. Happy baking!

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