Nothing beats the classic comfort of a warm, gooey apple upside down cake. With its caramelized apple topping and perfectly spiced, moist cake base, this dessert is a showstopper that brings cozy fall flavors to any table. The combination of buttery brown sugar and tart apples creates a delectable contrast, while the vanilla pudding mix and apple pie spice elevate this apple upside down cake to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply revel in a treat for yourself, this apple upside down cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients Breakdown

Choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in this apple upside down cake. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the balance between moisture, sweetness, and spice.

Apples: Granny Smith apples are the ideal choice for this recipe because their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the cake, offering a delightful contrast. Their firm texture also holds up well during baking, ensuring that the apples remain intact and don’t turn to mush. Golden Delicious apples are a wonderful alternative if you prefer a milder flavor.
Yellow Cake Mix: Using a boxed cake mix simplifies the baking process without sacrificing quality. By sifting the mix, you create a lighter, more even texture in the finished cake. If you want to add a personal touch, you can enhance the cake mix by adding a bit of extra vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon.
Instant Vanilla Pudding: This secret ingredient adds moisture and richness to the cake, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful. It also helps extend the cake’s shelf life, keeping it moist for days.
Apple Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, apple pie spice brings warmth and coziness to the cake. It enhances the flavor of the apples, making the apple upside down cake taste like a slice of autumn.
Butter and Brown Sugar Topping: The base layer of melted butter and brown sugar creates a luscious caramel glaze that seeps into the cake as it bakes. This topping is essential for achieving the signature “upside-down” effect, as it coats the apples and gives them a beautiful, glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking the Perfect Cake

Achieving the perfect apple upside down cake requires attention to detail in every step of the process. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your cake turns out flawless.

Preparing the Bundt Pan: To prevent the cake from sticking, thoroughly grease the pan with vegetable shortening and dust it with flour. This step is essential for a smooth release when inverting the cake. If you don’t have vegetable shortening, you can use a generous amount of butter instead.
Making the Topping: The brown sugar and butter glaze should have an even consistency to ensure it caramelizes properly. Pour the melted butter into the pan first, followed by an even sprinkle of brown sugar. When slicing the apples, aim for uniform thickness (around ¼ inch) to ensure even cooking. Arrange the apple slices neatly on top of the sugar, as they will be the star of the presentation when the cake is flipped.
Mixing the Cake Batter: Sifting the cake mix helps break up any lumps and ensures a light, fluffy cake. When mixing, be careful not to overbeat the batter, as this can cause the cake to become dense. Fold in the diced apples gently to avoid breaking them up too much.
Assembling the Cake: When pouring the batter into the pan, do so slowly to avoid disturbing the apple and brown sugar layer. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly across the pan. If your bundt pan is smaller than 10 inches, make sure you only fill it ⅔ of the way to avoid overflow.
Baking and Cooling: Bake the cake at 325°F for 45-50 minutes, but start checking for doneness at the 45-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before attempting to invert it. This brief cooling period allows the caramel to set slightly, making the cake easier to handle.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the Right Apples: Use firm apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Softer apples like McIntosh may become too mushy.
Customizing Spice Levels: Feel free to increase the amount of apple pie spice or add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a bolder, spicier flavor.
Cake Pan Alternatives: If you don’t have a bundt pan, a 9×13-inch pan works well, though the presentation will be different.
Making Ahead: You can prepare the cake batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. The baked cake also freezes beautifully; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Can I use different types of cake mix?: Yes, you can experiment with other flavors like spice or butter cake mix.
Can this cake be made gluten-free or dairy-free?: Substitute gluten-free cake mix and non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk.
How long does the cake stay fresh?: Stored in an airtight container, this cake stays fresh for 3-4 days. For best results, refrigerate it.
What if I don’t have apple pie spice? Can I make my own?: Combine cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to create your own homemade apple pie spice.
What can I do if my apples sink to the bottom?: Ensure the batter is thick enough to support the apples. You can lightly coat the apple slices in flour to prevent sinking.
How do I ensure the cake comes out cleanly from the pan?: Properly greasing and flouring the pan, along with allowing the cake to cool slightly, will help it release easily.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pairing this apple upside down cake with complementary sides can elevate the overall experience.

Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provides the perfect contrast to the warm, spiced cake. For an extra indulgent touch, try pairing it with cinnamon or caramel-flavored ice cream.
Whipped Cream or Caramel Sauce: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy touch, while a drizzle of caramel sauce amplifies the cake’s caramelized apple topping. Both are excellent accompaniments that enhance the richness of the cake.
Drinks to Pair: Warm beverages like spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or a cup of dark roast coffee complement the cozy flavors of the cake. For a special occasion, a dessert wine like Moscato or a spiced rum cocktail would also be delightful.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve this cake with flair to impress your guests.

Flipping the Cake Like a Pro: Inverting a bundt cake can be nerve-wracking, but the key is confidence. After letting the cake cool slightly, place your cake plate over the top of the pan and swiftly flip both over. Tap the pan gently to release the cake if needed.
Garnishing Ideas: For added visual appeal, garnish the cake with extra apple slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of caramel or a scattering of chopped nuts also adds a lovely finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions: This apple upside down cake is best enjoyed warm when the caramelized apples are still gooey and the cake is soft. However, it can also be served chilled for a firmer texture. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be delicious.

Storing Leftovers and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, proper storage will ensure the cake remains as delicious as the day it was baked.

How to Store: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep it longer, place it in the refrigerator where it will last for 4-5 days.
Freezing Options: This apple upside down cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating for Best Results: To reheat slices, place them in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 20 seconds to warm them through while maintaining their moisture.

Apple Upside Down Cake

Apple Upside Down Cake with caramelized apples, moist spiced cake, and a rich brown sugar glaze – a perfect treat for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 45

Servings:

Author: Jessica Harmon

Ingredients

1 cup finely diced apples Granny Smith works well, but Golden Delicious is a great alternative too (105g)
4 eggs at room temperature (You can quickly bring them to room temperature by placing them in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes)
1 cup milk whole or 2% preferred (240g)
½ cup vegetable oil Canola oil is recommended (108g)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract 8g
1½ teaspoons apple pie spice 3g
1 Box yellow cake mix I used Duncan Hines Perfectly Moist, 15.25 oz, sifted
3.4 oz box of instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup packed light brown sugar 200g
½ stick unsalted butter melted (56g)
1-2 apples peeled and thinly sliced to about ¼ inch thick (Granny Smith is ideal. You’ll need enough to cover the base of your pan)

Instructions

Preparing the Bundt Pan

Start by thoroughly greasing a 10-inch bundt pan with vegetable shortening, then lightly dust with flour. A smaller pan will work, but ensure you never fill more than ⅔ of the pan to avoid overflow during baking.

Making the Topping

Melt ½ stick of unsalted butter, either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Pour the melted butter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
Next, sprinkle the light brown sugar over the melted butter, ensuring it’s distributed evenly.
Using an apple slicer, cut your apple into sections, and then slice each section into thinner pieces, about ¼ inch thick. Remove the peels from each slice. Lay these slices on top of the brown sugar, arranging them side by side around the base of the bundt pan. Depending on the size of your apple or pan, you may need a bit more than one apple to cover the bottom.

Mixing the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Sift the cake mix into a large mixing bowl. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, apple pie spice, and vanilla extract.
Using a hand or stand mixer, blend the ingredients on medium speed for about one minute. Stop to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated, then mix again for another minute.
Gently fold in the finely diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Assembling and Baking

Carefully spoon or pour the cake batter into the bundt pan, covering the brown sugar and apple layer beneath.
Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake as baking times can vary. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Unmolding the Cake

To invert the cake, place your serving plate or cake pedestal on top of the bundt pan, then carefully flip them both upside down as one. Use dish towels or oven mitts to protect your hands from the heat. Let the pan sit upside down for another minute or two to allow the caramelized glaze to soak into the cake.
You may notice a bit of brown sugar sticking to the pan—don’t worry, this is normal.

Serving

Enjoy this delicious apple upside-down cake warm or cooled. If you plan to serve it later, store the cake in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving for optimal flavor.