Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Name: Irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 cups very thinly sliced apples ((about 3–4 apples)); 1/2 cup salted butter (for caramel); 2/3 cup brown sugar (for caramel); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for caramel); 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (for caramel); 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (for caramel); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel); 1/2 cup salted butter (for cake); 1 cup brown sugar (for cake); 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for cake); Sea salt (for topping)

Published: September 28, 2025

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Cake

This incredible Salted Caramel Apple Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Salted Caramel Apple Cake:

2 cups very thinly sliced apples (3–4 apples) – Use sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.

1/2 cup salted butter – Be sure to use good-quality butter for a rich flavor that elevates the cake.

2/3 cup brown sugar – This adds that deep, caramel-like sweetness to both the cake and the topping.

1 teaspoon cinnamon – A dash of this classic spice enhances the cake’s overall warmth and complements the apples beautifully.

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – Provides an aromatic flavor that rounds out the sweetness and adds a cozy feel.

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Just a hint of clove introduces a complex flavor profile that elevates this apple cake.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A must-have to enhance overall flavor and add a delightful warmth.

1/2 cup salted butter (for the batter) – Real butter ensures the cake is rich and moist, creating a perfect bite.

1 cup brown sugar (for the batter) – Provides a lovely depth of flavor that complements the cake and caramel.

2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to our delightful cake.

1/4 cup milk – Use whole milk for best results; it contributes creaminess to the cake.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of our cake, giving it structure and poise.

1 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures our cake rises beautifully and achieves the right texture.

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for the batter) – Enhances the flavor profile, creating a theme that echoes through the entire dessert.

Sea salt for topping – A finishing touch that amplifies the flavors and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Salted Caramel Apple Cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan
Generously grease a round 9-inch cake pan to prevent sticking. This is going to be the star of the show, so ensure it has a comfortable resting spot!

Step 2: Slice the Apples
Thinly slice the apples using a mandoline for a perfect, delicate texture. You want these to lay beautifully over your caramel, so attention to this detail pays off.

Step 3: Make the Caramel
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla. Cook for about 3 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Pour this luxurious caramel mixture into your greased cake pan and artfully arrange the apple slices on top.

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. In a mixing bowl, beat the remaining butter and brown sugar until creamy. Crack those eggs in, pour in the milk, and mix until well incorporated. Gradually stir in the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon until just combined. Remember, over-mixing is a cardinal sin in cake-making!

Step 5: Combine and Bake
Pour the cake batter over the beautiful layer of caramel and apples in the cake pan. Make sure it spreads evenly—this is your work of art going into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Now the moment of truth—invert the cake onto a plate! Tap gently on top until it releases from the pan. Feel free to sprinkle some sea salt over the top for that extra pop of flavor before slicing. This cake is ideally served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

And there you have it! Whether you’re enjoying this Salted Caramel Apple Cake at a family gathering, as a comforting treat after a long day, or simply because you deserve it, it’s bound to impress. Dive into the beautiful layers of flavors, and don’t forget to share (or not – we won’t judge). Happy baking!

You Must Know About Salted Caramel Apple Cake

This showstopping Salted Caramel Apple Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Salted Caramel Apple Cake Cooking Process

Start by preparing your cake pan and slicing the apples thinly. Make the caramel sauce next, layering it with apples at the bottom of the pan. Then, whip up the cake batter and pour it on top before baking it all together for a delightful blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch to Salted Caramel Apple Cake

Feel free to experiment with different types of apples for a unique flavor profile. You can also swap in maple syrup for the brown sugar or add a splash of bourbon to the caramel for an adult twist on this classic dessert.

Storing & Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Cake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Cake

This professional-quality Salted Caramel Apple Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made this cake, my family couldn’t believe I had baked it myself. They devoured it, asking for seconds and thirds, and the kitchen filled with compliments that warmed my heart more than the oven ever could.

FAQs About Salted Caramel Apple Cake

What is Salted Caramel Apple Cake?

Salted Caramel Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel and the tartness of apples in an upside-down format. Typically made with thinly sliced apples coated in a rich caramel sauce, the cake is baked on top and then inverted for a beautiful presentation. The salted element adds an exciting balance, enhancing the sweet flavors and making it an irresistible treat. This cake is perfect for celebrations or cozy family gatherings, often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

How long does it take to prepare Salted Caramel Apple Cake?

The total time to prepare Salted Caramel Apple Cake is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes about 45 minutes for prep and an equal amount of time for baking. It’s a straightforward recipe that involves slicing apples, making caramel, and preparing the cake batter. The waiting time is definitely worth it, as the end result is a delectable dessert that will please any crowd.

Can I customize the recipe for Salted Caramel Apple Cake?

Absolutely! You can customize Salted Caramel Apple Cake in various ways. Experiment with different varieties of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart touch or Honeycrisps for sweetness. You can also substitute maple syrup for brown sugar or even add a hint of bourbon to the caramel for a unique flavor twist. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding nuts or spices!

What are the best apples for Salted Caramel Apple Cake?

The best apples for Salted Caramel Apple Cake are firm varieties that hold up well during baking. Granny Smith apples offer a fantastic tartness that balances the sweetness, while Honeycrisp provides a delicious sweetness and crisp texture. Fuji and Braeburn apples are excellent options too. When you mix different types, you enhance the flavor complexity of the cake, creating an unforgettable dessert experience.

Conclusion for Salted Caramel Apple Cake

In summary, the Salted Caramel Apple Cake is a show-stopping dessert that effortlessly combines flavors and textures to impress friends and family. From preparation to presentation, this cake is as delightful to make as it is to eat. With simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can make this dessert your own. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, the Salted Caramel Apple Cake is guaranteed to leave everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy your baking adventure!