Upside Down Apple Cake

Upside-down apple cake is a true delicacy, a perfect combination of the flavor of fruits and a fluffy batter, easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion. This recipe is not only delicious but also full of stories, having deep roots in culinary tradition, where fruit desserts were often made as a way to celebrate the bountiful harvest. Today, I will guide you step by step in making this wonderful cake that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients:

For the caramel:
- 120 g butter (unsalted butter is ideal for a refined taste)
- 250 g sugar (brown sugar will add a deeper caramelization)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (to balance the sweetness)

For the batter:
- 7-8 eggs (use fresh, free-range eggs for superior taste)
- 150 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 8 tablespoons oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can also use olive oil for a more complex flavor)
- 250-300 g flour (white flour is standard, but whole wheat flour can add extra nutrients)
- 1 packet baking powder (make sure it is fresh for good rising)
- Vanilla essence (1 teaspoon, to add a wonderful aroma)
- 2 apples (tart apples like Granny Smith are most suitable)

Preparation steps:

Step 1: Preparing the caramel
1. In a saucepan, add the butter and sugar. Heat them over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
2. Once the mixture starts to boil, add the lemon juice. Continue to stir for 2 minutes until the caramel turns golden and has a smooth consistency.
3. Carefully pour the caramel into a buttered pan, ensuring it evenly covers the bottom. This will be the base layer of your cake.
4. Arrange the sliced apples on top of the caramel, carefully arranging them to create an attractive pattern.

Step 2: Preparing the batter
1. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy batter, so pay attention!
2. Once the egg whites have a stable consistency, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy foam.
3. In another bowl, beat the yolks with the oil. Then, gently fold the yolk mixture into the egg white foam with a spatula to avoid losing air.
4. Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture and gently mix until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Add the vanilla essence for extra flavor.
5. Pour the batter over the caramelized apples in the pan, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Step 3: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the cake turns golden and passes the toothpick test (if it comes out clean, the cake is ready).
2. After baking, let the cake cool for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a plate. You can use a larger plate to avoid any accidents.

Serving suggestions
The upside-down apple cake is served warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a creamy contrast. A cup of black tea or fresh lemonade pairs perfectly with this delicacy.

Variations and useful tips
- You can experiment with different types of fruits, such as pears or peaches, to change the flavor of the cake.
- If you want to add a hint of spice, a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can completely transform the flavor profile.
- Make sure to stir constantly when preparing the caramel to avoid burning it.

Nutritional benefits
This cake offers a combination of carbohydrates from sugar and flour, proteins from eggs, and fiber from apples. Apples bring extra vitamins and antioxidants, being known for their contribution to digestive and cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes, brown sugar will provide a richer taste and a darker color to the caramel.
2. How can I tell if the cake is baked? Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean from the center of the cake, it is ready.
3. Can I replace the eggs in the recipe? Yes, you can use banana puree or yogurt to replace the eggs, but the texture will be different.

Conclusion
Upside-down apple cake is a simple yet impressive recipe, ideal for any time of the day. Whether you prepare it for a celebration or just to indulge yourself, this cake will surely become a family favorite. Don't forget to share the recipe with your loved ones and enjoy each delicious slice together! Enjoy your meal!