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Vegan upside-down apple cake

Vegan Upside-Down Apple Cake

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Apple Topping:
  • 3 medium apples I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but Honeycrisp works too
  • 1/4 cup vegan butter try Miyoko’s Creamery for a rich, buttery flavor
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar for that deep caramel flavor
  • 1 tsp cinnamon because what’s fall without cinnamon?
For the Cake Batter:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce keeps the cake moist and adds natural sweetness
  • 1/2 cup plant-based milk oat milk is my go-to for its creaminess
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil adds a hint of richness
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract for that warm, cozy flavor
  • 1 tsp cinnamon double the spice, double the fun

Equipment

  • 9-inch round cake pan
  • Mixing bowls (one for dry ingredients, one for wet)
  • Whisk or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board (for slicing those apples)
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your cake pan with a bit of vegan butter or coconut oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Caramelized Topping
  1. In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter over low heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until it forms a smooth, glossy mixture. Pour this into the bottom of your cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Arrange the Apples
  1. Peel and slice your apples into thin wedges. Arrange them in a circular pattern over the caramel layer. This is where you can get creative—make it as pretty as you like!
Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, plant-based milk, granulated sugar, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cake tender.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
  1. Pour the batter over the apples in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Flip and Reveal
  1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The caramelized apples will now be on top, creating a stunning, Instagram-worthy dessert.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!