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As the leaves begin to turn and the air cools, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through the kitchen. Upside-down cakes, in particular, have a special place in the hearts of many home bakers, especially during the fall season. This delightful dessert combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples, creating a harmonious balance that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The Caramel Apple Bliss Upside Down Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it is a visual masterpiece that can elevate any gathering or cozy family dinner.

Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Embrace the flavors of fall with the Caramel Apple Bliss Upside Down Cake, a delightful dessert that combines sweet caramel and tart apples for a cozy, heartwarming experience. This visually stunning cake is simple to make, perfect for gatherings, or a sweet treat on a chilly evening. The rich caramelized apple topping and fluffy cake are complemented by warm spices, creating a memorable dessert that captures the essence of autumn. Bake it to impress family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

Instructions
 

Prepare the pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9-inch round cake pan with softened butter and set it aside for later use.

    Make the caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Once fully melted, add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir consistently until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Once ready, pour this luscious caramel mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan, ensuring it is spread evenly across the surface.

      Arrange the apples: Take the sliced apples and carefully layer them on top of the caramel, creating a decorative pattern of your choice. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also maximizes flavor. Set this pan aside to let the apples sit in the caramel.

        Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and remaining salt until evenly combined. Set aside to prepare for the wet ingredients.

          Cream the sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 cup of softened butter. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.

            Add eggs and vanilla: With the mixer still running, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. After both eggs have been added, stir in the vanilla extract until well mixed.

              Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the room-temperature buttermilk. Begin with the dry ingredients and finish with the dry, mixing gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; the batter should be smooth without any flour pockets.

                Pour the batter: Carefully spoon the cake batter over the arranged apples in the cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it covers the apples completely.

                  Bake the cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Enjoy the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen!

                    Cool and flip: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After cooling, run a butter knife around the edges to loosen the cake. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, allowing the caramel apple topping to rest beautifully on top.

                      Serve: Slice the cake and serve warm, drizzling any leftover caramel from the pan over each piece. For an extra treat, consider pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 8 servings