Looking for a dessert that blends sweet, salty, and tangy flavors? This Miso Caramel Upside-Down Apple Cake is the perfect combination of rich caramel, tart apples, and a soft, moist cake. The umami kick from miso takes this classic dessert to a whole new level!
Whether you’re making it for a cozy afternoon treat or a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its beautiful caramelized apple topping and delightful balance of flavors.
Body Overview
This upside-down apple cake is a modern twist on a traditional favorite. The miso caramel adds a subtle savory note that enhances the sweetness of the apples and richness of the cake.
By layering thinly sliced Pink Lady apples over a homemade miso caramel base, then topping it with a fluffy and moist cake batter, you’ll create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning.
The best part? It’s easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!
Let’s get started.
Ingredients
For the Apple Layer
- 3 Pink Lady apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced with a mandolin
For the Miso Caramel
- ¾ cup (150g) caster sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp miso
- 100g butter
For the Cake Batter
- 1 ½ cups (230g) plain flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp bi-carb soda
- Generous pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (105g) extra virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup (190g) Greek yogurt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (100g) caster sugar
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tin
- Line the base and sides of a 21-22cm round cake tin with greaseproof paper. This ensures an easy release after baking.
Step 2: Make the Miso Caramel
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the mixture turns a deep caramel color. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Remove from heat and stir in the miso and butter until smooth.
- Immediately pour the hot miso caramel into the base of the prepared cake tin.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, bi-carb soda, and salt.
Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and caster sugar until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
- Arrange the apple slices in the cake tin on top of the caramel, starting from the center and working outward in a neat circular pattern.
- Pour the cake batter over the apples, spreading it evenly.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool & Serve
- Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate to reveal the beautiful caramelized apple topping.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Sweet & Savory Perfection – The miso caramel adds a deep, salty-sweet flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
✔ Beautiful Presentation – The upside-down apple topping looks impressive and elegant.
✔ Moist & Tender Cake – Thanks to the Greek yogurt and olive oil, this cake is soft, fluffy, and full of flavor.
✔ Easy to Make – No fancy equipment required—just a mixing bowl, a whisk, and an oven!
Final Thoughts
If you love classic upside-down cakes, this Miso Caramel Apple Cake is a must-try. The combination of soft, buttery apples, rich caramel, and a moist, fluffy cake makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Happy baking!
