Upside-down apple cake combines tender baked apples, the warm aroma of cinnamon, and a soft sponge cake, all topped with creamy whipped cream. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, and its straightforward preparation guarantees a delightful treat with every bite.
Ingredients
For the apples:
- 1 kg tart apples
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Lemon juice
For the sponge cake:
- 4 eggs
- 150 g flour
- 150 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For decoration:
- 250 ml whipping cream
- Ground walnuts or almonds (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the apples
Peel the apples, cut them in half, and remove the cores. Drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the apples. Grease a 28 cm (11-inch) round pan with butter and arrange the apple halves cut-side down. Sprinkle the remaining sugar and cinnamon mixture over the top.
Bake the apples in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes, or until softened.
Step 2: Making the sponge cake
While the apples are baking, prepare the batter. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk the yolks with sugar and vanilla until pale and creamy. Add the oil, then gradually fold in the flour mixed with baking powder. Finally, gently fold in the egg whites to maintain a light and airy batter.
Step 3: Assembling the cake
Once the apples are soft, remove the pan from the oven and pour the batter evenly over the apples. Return the cake to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the sponge is golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 4: Flipping the cake
Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan. Carefully flip the cake onto a serving plate so that the apples are on top. Let it cool completely before decorating.
Step 5: Decorating the cake
Whip the cream until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the top of the cooled cake. Optionally, sprinkle with ground walnuts or almonds for added flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Right Apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith or Boskoop for the best flavor.
- Smooth Flip: When turning the cake, use a large serving platter to avoid any spills.
- Rustic or Refined: For a more rustic look, dollop the whipped cream on top without smoothing it out.
This upside-down apple cake perfectly balances the sweetness of apples with the lightness of sponge cake. Each slice is a blend of cinnamon-scented fruit, moist cake, and luscious whipped cream, making it a crowd-pleasing dessert for family and friends. Enjoy!
