Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

If you’re ready to treat yourself (and anyone lucky enough to share) to a dessert that’s bursting with warm, cozy flavors, this Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe is absolutely the one to try. The beautifully caramelized apples resting on top of a tender, nutty brown butter cake create an irresistible harmony of texture and taste that feels like a big, comforting hug. Every bite delivers layers of sweetness, spice, and buttery richness that make this cake the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or just a special moment at home. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with this twist on a classic upside-down cake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role, whether it’s adding moistness, warmth, sweetness, or that golden color that makes the cake so inviting. Let’s break down how every ingredient shines in this recipe:

• 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): These bring natural sweetness and a lovely, tender texture once caramelized.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (divided): Butter is browned twice to deepen the flavor and create a rich, nutty base.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and that decadent caramel layer under the apples.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Enhances warmth and a subtle spice that’s perfect with apples.
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The perfectly balanced dry base that holds the cake together light and soft.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cake the rise and fluffiness it deserves.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Combines with eggs to create a silky, airy batter.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the cake hold its shape.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture for a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor booster that ties everything together beautifully.

How to Make Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter and Prepare the Apple Topping

Start by heating 1/4 cup of butter in your cake pan or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Watch closely as it melts, bubbles, and then browns—your kitchen will fill with that amazing nutty aroma. Take it off the heat and stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until combined. Then arrange your thin apple slices neatly over this caramel mixture in a circular pattern so the apples get perfectly glazed when baked.

Step 2: Brown the Remaining Butter

While the apples are set, brown the remaining 1/4 cup of butter in a small saucepan. Let it cook until golden and fragrant, then remove it from the heat to cool slightly. This brown butter will bring an extra layer of rich flavor to your cake batter, making the cake irresistibly moist and nutty.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed, so your cake rises beautifully and bakes evenly.

Step 4: Beat the Sugar and Eggs

Using a mixer, beat the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. This aerated base is essential to give your cake a delightfully tender crumb.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients and Fold in Dry

Slowly add the cooled brown butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract to your egg mixture, mixing gently until combined. Then fold in the flour mixture just until incorporated—overmixing will make the cake tough, and we want it tender and light!

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour your batter evenly over the arranged apple topping and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before carefully flipping it onto a serving plate so the caramelized apples shine on top.

How to Serve Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance every slice by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side—the cold creaminess perfectly contrasts with the warm, gooey apples, creating a harmoniously indulgent bite.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness. For a brunch or afternoon snack, serve it alongside lightly spiced chai or hot apple cider to keep the fall-inspired flavors flowing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake in individual ramekins layered with extra caramel sauce and candied nuts for an elegant twist. Or add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top for a surprising, aromatic note that brings out the apple’s brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making every bite even more irresistible. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is fine but let slices come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving, ensuring your Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe tastes freshly baked.

Reheating

Gently warming a slice in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) will revive that soft texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Add a bit of whipped cream or ice cream after heating for a truly luscious experience.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While honeycrisp, granny smith, or fuji apples give the best balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with your favorite types—the texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Why is browning the butter important?

Brown butter adds a deeply nutty, caramel-like flavor to the cake, elevating a simple dessert into something extraordinary. It also adds moisture and depth that plain melted butter can’t achieve.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum or other binding agents. Keep an eye on the baking time since gluten-free batter may bake a bit differently.

Is it necessary to invert the cake after baking?

Definitely! Flipping the cake reveals the caramelized apple topping that’s baked into the pan. It’s the signature look and flavor that makes this Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe so special.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the cake’s center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked. Bake times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it around the 35-minute mark.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe is one of those magical desserts that’s as comforting as it is impressive. The combination of browned butter, caramelized apples, and tender cake is perfect for chilly evenings, special occasions, or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. I highly encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon find it’s a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful Brown Butter Apple Upside-Down Cake featuring tender caramelized apple slices atop a moist, cinnamon-spiced cake. This classic American dessert combines nutty browned butter with sweet brown sugar and aromatic cinnamon, making it perfect for fall and cozy gatherings.

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Ingredients

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For the Topping

• 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cake Batter

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (to brown)
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan or oven-safe skillet, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat until it starts to brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
2. Make the Caramelized Apple Topping: Stir the brown sugar and cinnamon into the browned butter until combined. Arrange the thinly sliced apples evenly over the butter-sugar mixture in a circular pattern, creating the upside-down layer that will caramelize during baking.
3. Braise Remaining Butter: In a small saucepan, brown the remaining 1/4 cup of butter until it develops a nutty fragrance and golden color. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly to prevent cooking the eggs later.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
5. Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs together until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This incorporates air for a tender crumb in the cake.
6. Combine Wet Ingredients: Slowly add the cooled brown butter to the egg mixture, followed by the whole milk and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
7. Form the Batter: Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
8. Assemble the Cake and Bake: Pour the batter evenly over the apple slices and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate so the caramelized apples are on top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Serve best with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Use firm apple varieties such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji for the best texture and flavor.
• Ensure the butter is browned but not burnt for optimal nutty flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American