Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with this Skillet Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake. With a golden caramel apple topping and a moist, spiced cake base, this one-pan wonder is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2–3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 medium apple, diced (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Caramel Layer:
- In a skillet or saucepan, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly.
- 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:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the diced apple for added texture and flavor.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Remove the caramel and apple layer from the refrigerator. Pour the cake batter evenly over the top.
- 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:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel and apples to form the topping.
- Slice and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American