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Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

This irresistible Apple Upside-Down Cake recipe became a workplace legend! Originally born from a need to use up extra apples, it's now the requested birthday treat for every coworker. Get ready to impress with its melt-in-your-mouth buttery brown sugar topping and perfectly spiced apples nestled in a moist, delicious cake. Easy to make, yet guaranteed to wow!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 491.9 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Apple Upside Down Cake 34

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apple Upside Down Cake

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 6-8 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • Butter Recipe Cake Mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup water

How to Make Apple Upside Down Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 13x9 inch baking pan.
  3. Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Pour melted butter into the prepared baking pan.
  5. Add 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until well combined.
  6. Spread the brown sugar mixture evenly across the bottom of the baking pan.
  7. Arrange 6-8 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced) evenly over the brown sugar.
  8. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 cup chopped pecans over the apples.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened), 3 large eggs, and 1 cup water.
  10. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, or until well combined.
  11. Pour the cake batter evenly over the apples.
  12. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  13. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
  14. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

18 g

Sugar

161g

Fat

57g

Carbs

19g

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Sweets & Sides Desserts Salmon Recipes The Americas American Southern Vegetarian Fall Recipes Holiday Recipes Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Desserts Fruit Cakes Dietary Apples