Upside-down apple & walnut cake

This Upside-down Apple & Walnut Cake features tart apples, rich brown sugar, and crunchy walnuts. It's baked upside-down, ensuring a deliciously moist cake perfect for any occasion.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2/3 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1.50 cups light sour cream
2 apples
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
1/2 cup self-raising flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1/3 cup walnuts
Upside-down apple & walnut cake

This Upside-down Apple & Walnut Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of apples with the richness of brown sugar and buttery walnuts. It's perfect for a cozy get-together or a special occasion. The sweet and nutty flavors come together to create a moist and flavorful treat that's sure to impress your friends and family.

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Equipment:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Base:
- In a saucepan, melt 2/3 cup butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the butter-sugar mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan.
3. Arrange the Apples:
- Layer the apple chunks neatly over the butter-sugar mixture in the cake pan, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
4. Mix the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups sour cream, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 eggs until smooth.
- Gradually stir in 1/2 cup self-raising flour and 1 tsp cinnamon until well combined.
5. Add the Walnuts:
- Fold in 1/3 cup chopped walnuts into the batter.
6. Combine and Bake:
- Pour the batter over the apple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Flip:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake.
- Place a serving plate over the cake pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate, so the apple layer is on top.
8. Serve:
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
- Optionally, you can serve this delicious upside-down apple & walnut cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Creating this Upside-down Apple & Walnut Cake is a rewarding and enjoyable baking experience. The combination of apples, cinnamon, and walnuts creates a delectable flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. With a bit of preparation and these helpful tips, you’ll have a delicious, beautifully layered cake to share and enjoy. Happy baking!

Upside-down apple & walnut cake FAQ:

What is the baking time for the Upside-down Apple & Walnut Cake?

The cake should be baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover Upside-down Apple & Walnut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain freshness, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap.

Can I substitute regular flour for self-raising flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour for self-raising flour. For every cup of all-purpose flour used, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic self-raising flour.

What type of apples work best in this recipe?

For this cake, it's best to use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold their shape and provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.

What can I use instead of walnuts in the recipe?

If you need a nut-free option, you can omit the walnuts entirely or replace them with seeds (like sunflower seeds) or additional apple chunks for texture.

Tips:

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

- Make sure to use room temperature butter for easier mixing and a smoother batter.

- Use parchment paper to line the cake pan for easier removal of the cake once it's baked.

- Mix the dry ingredients separately before incorporating them into the wet mixture to avoid overmixing the batter.

- Toast the walnuts prior to adding them into the cake for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 590kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 2.77g
Sugar 44g
Fat 36g

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