Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
Step 2: Caramelize the Apples
Heat the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Add the sugar and stir until it begins to dissolve.
Add the apple slices and sprinkle with cinnamon, if using.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Sugar
- Milk
- Oil
- Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Whisk until you have a smooth batter with no lumps. Avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Pour the batter evenly over the warm apples in the skillet.
Use a spatula to spread it gently so it covers the apples completely.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
If desired, carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the caramelized apples are on top.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Dust generously with powdered sugar.
Serve warm or at room temperature with:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
Tips
- Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples all work well.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- A pinch of nutmeg or apple pie spice adds even more flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving for the best taste.