Name: Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Topping:; 6 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ cup dark brown sugar; 1 medium apple; 1 cup fresh cranberries; For Cake:; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup dark brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ¼ tsp ground ginger; ⅓ cup buttermilk

Experience the delightful combination of tart cranberries and sweet apple in this irresistible upside-down cake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of flavors that will please every palate.

Photos of Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may need to purchase fresh cranberries, which are not always a household staple. Additionally, buttermilk is required for the cake batter, so ensure you have it on hand before starting.

Ingredients For Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake

unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture to both the topping and the cake.

dark brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

apple: Offers a natural sweetness and texture.

cranberries: Adds a tart contrast to the sweetness.

eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.

pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

all-purpose flour: Provides the base structure for the cake.

baking powder: Helps the cake rise.

salt: Balances and enhances the flavors.

ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.

ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.

ground cloves: Provides a strong, aromatic spice.

ground ginger: Adds a hint of sweetness and spice.

buttermilk: Adds tanginess and contributes to the cake's moist texture.

One reader, Krissy Bergman says:

This cranberry apple upside-down cake is a delightful treat! The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples creates a perfect balance. The spices add a warm, cozy flavor, and the cake is wonderfully moist. It's a must-try for any dessert lover!

Krissy Bergman

Techniques Required

How to slice apples: Ensure the apples are sliced evenly to promote uniform cooking. How to melt butter: Melt the butter on low heat to prevent it from burning. How to whisk egg whites: Whisk the egg whites until they are thick and foamy to incorporate air and add lightness to the batter. How to fold ingredients: Gently fold the egg whites into the batter to maintain the airiness and prevent deflation.

How To Make Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake

Impress everyone with this simple yet piquant upside-down cake loaded with delicious tart cranberries and fresh apples, for a richly fruity dessert!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Topping:

6tbspunsalted butter
½cupdark brown sugar,packed
1medium apple,peeled, cored, thinly sliced
1cupfresh cranberries,or frozen, heaping

For Cake:

½cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
1cupdark brown sugar,packed
2large eggs,room temperature, separated
1tsppure vanilla extract
1½cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
1tspbaking powder
½tspsalt
1tspground cinnamon
¼tspground nutmeg
¼tspground cloves
¼tspground ginger
⅓cupbuttermilk

Instructions

Lightly spray a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside. Make sure the apples are sliced and ready to go.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter on low heat. When it begins to bubble, whisk in the brown sugar. Continue to stir until smooth.
Leave on heat for about 2 minutes until it begins to bubble. Stir, then remove from heat and allow to briefly cool for a couple of minutes.
Layer the sliced apples and cranberries into the dish and pour the butter and sugar overtop. Set aside.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, toss the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger together until combined. Set aside.
Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high for about 1 minute until creamy. Add the brown sugar and beat on medium-high speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until creamed together. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla on medium speed for about 2 full minutes until everything is combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, and mixing each addition just until incorporated. Do not overmix. Whisk or beat the 2 egg whites for about 3 minutes until thick and foamy.
Fold into the cake batter. The batter will be smooth, velvety, and thick. Spoon or pour batter over the apples-cranberries.
Bake for 40 to 44 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the very middle comes out clean.
Allow to cool for exactly 10 minutes before inverting onto a large serving dish or cake stand.
Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Leftovers keep well covered tightly at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 2 days.
Apples: Use a preferred variety of apple. This recipe tastes good with Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
Buttermilk: Whole milk can be substituted for buttermilk if desired. Lower fat or non-dairy milk in a pinch can also be used, but the cake won’t taste as rich and moist.

Nutrition

Calories: 328.13kcal
Fat: 17.40g
Saturated Fat: 10.62g
Trans Fat: 0.66g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.89g
Carbohydrates: 40.44g
Fiber: 1.62g
Sugar: 23.99g
Protein: 3.77g
Cholesterol: 80.25mg
Sodium: 191.58mg
Calcium: 79.76mg
Potassium: 111.83mg
Iron: 1.35mg
Vitamin A: 153.98µg
Vitamin C: 2.39mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When preparing the apples for the topping, make sure to slice them evenly and thinly. This ensures they cook uniformly and create a beautiful, caramelized layer. Additionally, to prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom, lightly coat them in a bit of flour before layering them in the dish. This will help them stay suspended in the cake batter, giving you a more even distribution of fruit throughout the dessert.

How To Save Time on This Recipe

Prepare ingredients ahead: Slice the apple and measure out the cranberries and other ingredients before starting.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the dry ingredients using a food processor to save time.

Room temperature butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while preparing the topping to save waiting time.

Simplify cleanup: Line the pie dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with salted butter: Reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with light brown sugar: The flavor will be slightly milder, but it will still provide the necessary sweetness and moisture.
apple - Substitute with pear: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative.
fresh cranberries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Rehydrate the dried cranberries in warm water or juice to mimic the texture of fresh cranberries.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, with a slight coconut flavor.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cake denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 teaspoon baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral taste.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices, adding a more complex flavor.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace is the outer covering of nutmeg and provides a similar but slightly more intense flavor.
ground cloves - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, spicy flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Use 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for every 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and lemon juice: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle.

Best Way to Present This Dessert

Use a pristine white plate: The clean, white background will make the vibrant colors of the cranberries and apples pop, creating a visually stunning contrast.
Create a caramel drizzle: Use the leftover butter and brown sugar mixture to create a delicate caramel drizzle around the plate. This adds both flavor and an artistic touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary on top of the cake. The green will add a fresh color contrast and a subtle aromatic element.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small, elegant dollop of whipped cream beside the cake. This adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
Sprinkle powdered sugar: Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Serve with a side of fruit compote: Prepare a small side of cranberry and apple compote. This not only enhances the flavors but also adds a sophisticated element to the dish.
Use microgreens for a modern touch: Scatter a few microgreens around the plate. This adds a contemporary flair and a slight crunch.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a couple of edible flowers on the plate. They add a pop of color and a touch of luxury.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the cake with a glass of sparkling apple cider or a cranberry-infused cocktail. This elevates the dining experience and complements the flavors of the cake.
Use a cake ring for perfect shape: Use a cake ring to ensure the cake is perfectly round and uniform. This adds a professional touch to the presentation.

Best Tools for This Recipe

9-inch pie dish: This is used to bake the cake and hold the apple and cranberry topping.
Non-stick cooking spray: This is used to lightly coat the pie dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
Small saucepan: This is used to melt the butter and mix it with the brown sugar for the topping.
Whisk: This is used to mix the butter and brown sugar until smooth and to whisk the egg whites until thick and foamy.
Medium bowl: This is used to combine the dry ingredients for the cake batter.
Handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment: This is used to cream the butter and sugar together and to mix the cake batter.
Spatula: This is used to scrape down the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl as needed.
Toothpick: This is used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the middle of the cake.
Large serving dish or cake stand: This is used to invert the cake onto after it has cooled for 10 minutes.

How To Store / Freeze This Dessert

Storing Guidelines:
- Allow the cranberry apple upside-down cake to cool completely at room temperature. This ensures that the cake sets properly and prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container.
- Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
- Store the covered cake in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The fruit topping may make the cake slightly moist over time, but it will still taste delicious.
Freezing Guidelines:
- To freeze, first allow the cake to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture of the cake.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring that all parts are covered to prevent freezer burn. For added protection, wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe airtight container.
- Label the wrapped cake with the date to keep track of its freshness. The cranberry apple upside-down cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the cake's texture and flavor.
- Once thawed, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it at room temperature. The fruit topping will still be delightful and the cake will retain its moist, tender crumb.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees f. Lightly spray a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside. Make sure the apples are sliced and ready to go.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter on low heat. When it begins to bubble, whisk in the brown sugar. Continue to stir until smooth.
Leave on heat for about 2 minutes until it begins to bubble. Stir, then remove from heat and allow to briefly cool for a couple of minutes.
Layer the sliced apples and cranberries into the dish and pour the butter and sugar overtop. Set aside.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees f.
In a medium bowl, toss the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger together until combined. Set aside.
Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high for about 1 minute until creamy. Add the brown sugar and beat on medium-high speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until creamed together. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla on medium speed for about 2 full minutes until everything is combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, and mixing each addition just until incorporated. Do not overmix. Whisk or beat the 2 egg whites for about 3 minutes until thick and foamy.
Fold into the cake batter. The batter will be smooth, velvety, and thick. Spoon or pour batter over the apples-cranberries.
Bake for 40 to 44 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the very middle comes out clean.
Allow to cool for exactly 10 minutes before inverting onto a large serving dish or cake stand.
Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Best Methods for Reheating Leftover cranberry apple upside-down cake recipe

Oven Method
- Preheat your oven to 300 degrees f.
- Place the leftover cranberry apple upside-down cake on a baking sheet.
- Cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Microwave Method
- Place a slice of the cake on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover it with a microwave-safe cover or another plate to retain moisture.
- Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed.
- Be cautious not to overheat as it can make the cake rubbery.
Stovetop Method
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over low heat.
- Place a slice of the cake in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat and moisture.
- Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, checking frequently to avoid burning.
- Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before serving.
Toaster Oven Method
- Preheat your toaster oven to 300 degrees f.
- Place the cake on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray.
- Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Let it cool for a minute before serving.
Steam Method
- Place a steaming rack in a pot with a small amount of water.
- Bring the water to a gentle simmer.
- Place the cake on a heatproof plate and set it on the steaming rack.
- Cover the pot and steam for about 5 minutes or until the cake is warmed through.
- Carefully remove the plate from the pot and let it cool slightly before serving.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This cranberry apple upside-down cake recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of common pantry staples like all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, and spices keeps costs low. Specialty items like fresh cranberries and buttermilk might add to the expense but are generally affordable. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. The recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness, balancing between affordability and the delightful taste of a homemade dessert.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cranberry apple upside-down cake is a delightful treat, but it leans towards the indulgent side. The use of 12 tablespoons of butter and 1.5 cups of dark brown sugar makes it high in saturated fats and sugars, which can contribute to heart disease and weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, the refined flour lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains.

Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.
Substitute dark brown sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like stevia to lower the glycemic index.
Use whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and almond flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Increase the amount of fresh cranberries and apples to boost the fruit content, adding more vitamins and antioxidants.
Opt for low-fat buttermilk or a plant-based milk alternative to cut down on saturated fats.
Add a handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds for healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.
Serve smaller portions to keep calorie intake in check while still enjoying the flavors.

Editor's Thoughts on This Dessert

This cranberry apple upside-down cake recipe is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, perfect for autumn. The combination of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger—adds a warm, aromatic depth to the cake. The buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the caramelized apple and cranberry topping provides a beautiful, glossy finish. The process is straightforward, though it requires careful attention to mixing and layering. Overall, it's a well-balanced dessert that can impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Elevate the cozy vibes with a bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness will perfectly complement the tartness of the cranberries and the warmth of the spices in the cake. A drizzle of maple syrup on top will tie the flavors together beautifully.

Spiced Pecans: Add a crunchy twist to your dessert experience with a handful of spiced pecans. The nutty, caramelized goodness will enhance the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the cake, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for munching alongside each bite of the cake.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Cool down the warmth of the cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, smooth texture and rich vanilla flavor will balance the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the brown sugar topping. A match made in dessert heaven.

Caramelized Pears: Take your taste buds on a journey with a side of caramelized pears. The soft, juicy pears cooked in butter and brown sugar will mirror the flavors in the cake, while adding an extra layer of fruity delight. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top will make it irresistible.

Herb-Infused Mascarpone: Add a touch of elegance with a dollop of herb-infused mascarpone. The creamy, slightly tangy cheese infused with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme will provide a sophisticated contrast to the sweet and spiced cake. A luxurious addition to your dessert plate.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dessert

Caramelized Pear Upside-Down Cake: Indulge in the sweet and succulent flavors of pears caramelized to perfection, layered beneath a moist and spiced cake. Perfect for a cozy evening dessert.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A classic favorite, this cake features juicy pineapple rings and maraschino cherries atop a buttery, golden cake. The caramelized topping adds a delightful sweetness.

Spiced Plum Upside-Down Cake: Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of plums combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This cake is a delightful twist on the traditional upside-down cake.

Banana Foster Upside-Down Cake: Inspired by the classic Bananas Foster dessert, this cake features caramelized bananas and a hint of rum, creating a decadent treat that's sure to impress.

Mango Coconut Upside-Down Cake: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this cake featuring sweet mango slices and a hint of coconut. The combination of flavors is both refreshing and indulgent.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Create a delectable filling using cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped herbs. Add a touch of parmesan for a rich, nutty flavor. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps and bake until golden brown. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Begin with slices of crusty baguette, toasted to perfection. Top each slice with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy finish. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also bursts with fresh, summery flavors that will leave your guests craving more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, all seasoned with spices and herbs. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is a hearty and nutritious option for any dinner table. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why trust this Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake Recipe:

This cranberry apple upside-down cake recipe is a must-try for its perfect blend of tart cranberries and sweet apples. The buttery caramel topping adds a rich, decadent flavor that complements the spiced cake beautifully. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can achieve a stunning and delicious dessert. Trust this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors, making it a standout addition to any gathering.

Want to share your experience making this Cranberry Apple Upside-Down Cake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

What type of apple works best for this recipe?

I recommend using a firm apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet topping.

Can I substitute the buttermilk with something else?

If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/3 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just warm it up a bit before serving.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Just keep it covered and at room temperature. If you want to serve it warm, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.