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When it comes to desserts that evoke warmth and nostalgia, few can compete with the Caramel Apple Delight Surprise. This delightful cake masterfully blends the rich, buttery flavor of homemade caramel with the crisp sweetness of fresh apples, resulting in a moist, indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy family gathering, celebrating a milestone, or simply treating yourself to a special dessert, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy.

Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake

Discover the comforting flavors of the Caramel Apple Delight Surprise, a cake that perfectly combines sweet caramel and fresh apples for a delightful dessert experience. This recipe highlights the importance of using high-quality ingredients, from homemade caramel to carefully chosen apples. Whether you're hosting a celebration or simply indulging yourself, this moist, visually appealing cake is sure to impress and evoke warm memories. Learn how to create this delicious treat and elevate your baking skills today!
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Ingredients
  

For the caramel sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

1/2 cup heavy cream

Pinch of salt

For the cake:

2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Additional apple slices for decoration (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar and stir until it melts into a brown liquid, about 5-7 minutes. Continue to stir to avoid burning. Once melted, add the cubed butter and stir until melted and combined. Carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring, then add a pinch of salt. Simmer for just 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

    Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and pour a thin layer of caramel sauce at the bottom. Arrange the sliced apples in a spiral shape over the caramel. Drizzle some additional caramel sauce over the apples, if desired.

      Make the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing until well incorporated.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing only until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

          Assemble the Cake: Carefully pour the batter over the apple and caramel layer in the prepared cake pan, smoothing it out evenly.

            Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Flip: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then carefully invert it onto a large serving plate to reveal the caramel apple topping.

                Serve: Drizzle additional warm caramel sauce over the upside-down cake if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

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