Apple upside-down cake

Upside-down apple cake: a sweet delight that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn’t love a fluffy cake with flavors of apple and cinnamon that melts in your mouth? The upside-down apple cake is a simple and delicious dessert, perfect for any occasion, from an afternoon spent with family to a gathering with friends. This recipe is not only easy to make but can also become a fun cooking project with the kids. Let’s discover together how to prepare this wonderful cake!

Ingredients needed

For the batter:
- 2 large eggs (preferably at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 9 tablespoons of sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 9 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or canola oil for a neutral taste)
- 9 tablespoons of milk (whole milk for a richer flavor)
- 12 tablespoons of flour (white or whole wheat, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder

For the filling:
- 1 kg of apples (about 6 medium apples; tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal)
- Sugar to taste (preferably 2-3 tablespoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional, but recommended for its aroma)

Steps for preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. It is essential to use fresh apples, as their flavor will significantly influence the final taste of the cake. Peel the apples and slice them thinly or grate them, depending on your preference.

2. Preparing the batter:
In a large bowl, mix the two eggs with the sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. Then add the oil and milk, continuing to mix until well incorporated.

3. Adding dry ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until you achieve a smooth and lump-free batter.

4. Preparing the apples:
Place the apple slices in a pan over medium heat, adding sugar and cinnamon. Sauté the apples until they release their juice and become soft, but do not overcook them as we want to retain some of their texture. Once sautéed, let them cool.

5. Assembling the cake:
Line a 25 cm x 30 cm baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with butter. Pour half of the batter into the dish and bake at 180 degrees Celsius (moderate heat) for 10-12 minutes, until it sets slightly.

6. Adding the apples:
Remove the dish from the oven and evenly distribute the sautéed apple mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, ensuring they are evenly covered.

7. Final baking:
Bake the cake for about 40 minutes or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done).

8. Cooling and serving:
Allow the cake to cool completely in the dish, then sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Cut the cake into squares and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot tea.

Helpful tips

- Choose apples carefully: Apples are the main ingredient, so make sure to pick a type you enjoy. Tart apples will add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Nut variation: If you want an extra crunch, add some chopped nuts or nut pieces to the batter before baking.
- Storing the cake: The cake keeps well at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen, but make sure it is well covered.

Nutritional benefits

Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Flour and eggs provide protein, while oil adds healthy fats. This cake is a lighter and healthier option compared to other calorie-rich desserts.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but the cooking time for the filling may vary.

- How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and adjust the amount of sugar in the apples according to taste.

- Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour. Make sure to add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum.

This upside-down apple cake recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a great way to spend time in the kitchen with loved ones. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, you can’t help but enjoy every bite. Enjoy!