Mary Berry Apple Upside Down Cake
Mary Berry Recipes

Mary Berry Apple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Mary Berry’s Apple Upside-Down Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that pairs caramelized apples with a soft, buttery sponge. Perfect for autumn or anytime you have fresh apples, this cake is beautifully layered with apple slices, creating a stunning presentation when inverted. Serve it warm with cream, custard, or ice cream for an extra treat.

What is Mary Berry Apple Upside-Down Cake?

Mary Berry’s Apple Upside-Down Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert featuring caramelized apple slices arranged at the bottom of the cake pan, topped with a light, fluffy sponge. Once baked and inverted, the caramelized apples create a beautiful, glossy topping that makes this cake as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Mary Berry Apple Upside Down Cake

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

  • Beautiful Presentation: The caramelized apples create a stunning topping.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family gatherings, tea time, or holidays.
  • Balanced Sweetness: Apples add natural sweetness and tartness to the buttery cake.
  • Versatile Dessert: This can be served warm or at room temperature with various toppings.
  • Easy to Make: Uses basic ingredients for a delicious, homey cake.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Apple Upside-Down Cake

For the Topping

  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted): Creates a rich base for the apples.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel flavor to the topping.
  • 2 Large Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for flavor contrast.

For the Cake Batter

  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
  • 3/4 cup Caster Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
  • 2 Large Eggs: Provides structure and lift.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and flavor to the cake.
  • 1 cup Self-Raising Flour: Makes the cake light and fluffy.
  • 1/4 cup Whole Milk: Keeps the cake soft and moist.

Equipment Needed

  • 9-Inch Round Cake Pan: For baking the cake.
  • Mixing Bowls: For preparing the batter and topping.
  • Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming butter and sugar.
  • Spatula: For spreading the batter evenly.
  • Peeler and Knife: For preparing the apples.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Apple Upside-Down Cake

Step 1. Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the melted butter into the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan, swirling to coat evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter to create an even layer. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern over the brown sugar layer.

Step 2. Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.

Step 3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

Sift the self-raising flour into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Pour in the milk and mix just until the batter is smooth and well-blended, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4. Pour the Batter Over the Topping

Carefully pour the batter over the arranged apples and spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the apples completely.

Step 5. Bake the Cake

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown, and the edges should pull away slightly from the pan.

Step 6. Cool and Invert

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Mary Berry Apple Upside Down Cake

What Goes Well With Apple Upside-Down Cake

  • Vanilla Ice Cream – Complements the warm, caramelized apples.
  • Whipped Cream – Adds a light, airy contrast to the dense cake.
  • Custard – A classic, warm pairing that enhances the flavors.
  • Caramel Sauce – Drizzle over the cake for extra richness.
  • Sprinkle of Cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Apple Upside-Down Cake

For perfect results, follow these tips:

  • Choose Firm Apples – Firm varieties like Granny Smith hold up well during baking.
  • Pat Apples Dry – Dry the apples with a paper towel to reduce moisture and ensure caramelization.
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter for a light texture.
  • Invert While Warm – Invert the cake while it’s still warm to avoid sticking.
  • Arrange Apples Neatly – A neat pattern enhances the visual appeal of the finished cake.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Apple Upside-Down Cake

Try these variations to switch up the flavors:

  • Add Cinnamon – Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon into the brown sugar for extra warmth.
  • Use Pears Instead of Apples – Pears make a lovely alternative and pair well with caramel flavors.
  • Add Nuts – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar for a nutty crunch.
  • Spiced Version – Add a pinch of nutmeg and ginger to the batter for a spiced cake.
  • Top with Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel sauce over the inverted cake for added richness.

Best Practices to Store Apple Upside-Down Cake

  • Refrigerate leftovers – Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Cover Tightly – Keep the cake covered to retain moisture.
  • Freeze for Longer Storage – Freeze for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Best Practices to Reheat Apple Upside-Down Cake

  • Oven Reheat – Reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10 minutes for the best texture.
  • Microwave Reheat – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
  • Serve Warm – Apple upside-down cake is best enjoyed warm for optimal flavor.

How Can I Make Apple Upside-Down Cake Healthier?

  • Reduce Sugar – Use less brown sugar in the topping and caster sugar in the batter.
  • Add Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute part of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
  • Use Greek Yogurt – Replace some of the butter with Greek yogurt for fewer calories.
  • Serve with Fresh Fruit – Pair with fresh berries or apples instead of ice cream for a lighter dessert.
  • Skip the Cherries – For fewer calories, omit any additional sugary toppings.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 28g

FAQs

Can I Use Different Types of Apples for Apple Upside-Down Cake?

Yes, different apples can be used, but firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best. They hold their shape well during baking and add a nice balance of tartness to the sweet caramelized topping.

How Do I Prevent Apple Upside-Down Cake from Sticking?

To prevent sticking, generously grease the cake pan with butter and add a layer of parchment paper at the bottom before adding the butter and sugar mixture. This helps the cake release easily when inverted.

Can I Make Apple Upside-Down Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, apple upside-down cake can be made a day in advance. After baking and cooling, store it covered in the fridge. Reheat individual slices or bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Apple Upside-Down Cake?

Store leftover apple upside-down cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Covering the cake helps retain moisture and keeps the caramelized topping from drying out.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Apple Upside-Down Cake is a comforting and beautiful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The caramelized apples bring warmth and sweetness, while the tender cake adds balance and texture. Enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat!

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Mary Berry Apple Upside Down Cake

Mary Berry Apple Upside Down Cake

  • Author: Ekani Ella
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 35
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Description

Mary Berry’s Apple Upside-Down Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert featuring caramelized apple slices arranged at the bottom of the cake pan, topped with a light, fluffy sponge. Once baked and inverted, the caramelized apples create a beautiful, glossy topping that makes this cake as visually appealing as it is delicious.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Topping

  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted): Creates a rich base for the apples.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel flavor to the topping.
  • 2 Large Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for flavor contrast.

For the Cake Batter

  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
  • 3/4 cup Caster Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
  • 2 Large Eggs: Provides structure and lift.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and flavor to the cake.
  • 1 cup Self-Raising Flour: Makes the cake light and fluffy.
  • 1/4 cup Whole Milk: Keeps the cake soft and moist.

Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the melted butter into the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan, swirling to coat evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter to create an even layer. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern over the brown sugar layer.

Step 2. Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.

Step 3. Combine the Dry Ingredients

Sift the self-raising flour into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Pour in the milk and mix just until the batter is smooth and well-blended, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4. Pour the Batter Over the Topping

Carefully pour the batter over the arranged apples and spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the apples completely.

Step 5. Bake the Cake

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown, and the edges should pull away slightly from the pan.

Step 6. Cool and Invert

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Let it cool slightly before serving.


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