Bake a vegan upside down apple cake recipe, easy and healthy, perfect for any occasion.
The vegan upside down apple cake recipe from Mangoes and Palm Trees is a delightful, plant-based dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and cruelty-free. With caramelized apples and warm spices, this healthy vegan apple cake is ideal for gatherings or cozy nights. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, it’s a guilt-free treat that aligns with ethical and environmental values. Featured in our dessert collection, it’s simple to make with pantry staples. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Choose a Vegan Upside Down Apple Cake
The vegan apple upside down cake is a perfect blend of taste and ethics, offering health benefits and a lower environmental footprint, as noted by The Kitchn. Its fiber-rich apples and plant-based ingredients make it nutrient-dense, per Healthline. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we add tropical flair, like mango-caramel, to elevate it. Ideal for our plant-based meal plans, it’s allergy-friendly and delicious. Serve with tea for a cozy treat!
Craving more vegan desserts? Try our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls or explore Kefir Sheet Cake!
Tools Needed for Vegan Apple Cake
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch Round Cake Pan | Bakes the cake evenly |
| Mixing Bowls | Combines ingredients |
| Whisk or Spatula | Blends batter smoothly |
| Apple Peeler/Corer | Prepares apples |
| Cooling Rack | Prevents sogginess |
Vegan Upside Down Apple Cake Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serves: 8
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 3 medium | Granny Smith apples | Peeled, cored, thinly sliced |
| 1/2 cup | Brown sugar | - |
| 1/4 cup | Vegan butter | Melted |
| 1 1/2 cups | All-purpose flour | Sifted |
| 1 cup | Granulated sugar | - |
| 1/3 cup | Almond milk | - |
| 1/4 cup | Applesauce | - |
| 1 tbsp | Apple cider vinegar | - |
| 1 tsp | Baking powder | - |
| 1/2 tsp | Baking soda | - |
| 1 tsp | Ground cinnamon | - |
| 1/4 tsp | Ground nutmeg | - |
| 1 tsp | Vanilla extract | - |
| 1/4 tsp | Salt | - |
Instructions
- Prep Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line with parchment paper.
- Make Caramel: Melt 1/4 cup vegan butter and mix with 1/2 cup brown sugar. Spread evenly in the pan’s bottom.
- Arrange Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice 3 apples. Arrange slices in a circular pattern over the caramel, overlapping slightly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk 1 1/2 cups sifted flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp salt.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/3 cup almond milk, 1/4 cup applesauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake: Pour batter over apples, spread evenly, and bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Flip: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a plate. Serve warm with tea.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Tips for Perfect Texture
- Choose Firm Apples: Use Granny Smith for tartness and structure.
- Measure Accurately: Use a scale for flour and sugar to avoid density.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure 350°F.
- Cool Properly: Cool for 10 minutes before flipping to prevent sticking.
Creative Variations
Tropical Mango-Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Add 1/2 cup diced mango and pineapple slices with apples, inspired by our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls.
Gluten-Free Vegan Apple Cake
Use 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend, as in our gluten-free plans.
Nutty Apple Cake
Fold in 1/4 cup chopped walnuts for crunch, like our Kefir Sheet Cake.
Spiced Chai Apple Cake
Add 1/2 tsp cardamom and 1/4 tsp ginger for a chai-inspired twist.
Serving Suggestions
| Pairing | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Ice Cream | Creamy contrast; try coconut or almond-based. | - |
| Herbal Tea | Warm complement; explore our tea recipes. | Tea |
| Fresh Fruit | Adds freshness; pair with berries or citrus. | - |
| Side Salad | Balances sweetness; try our Crispy Chicken Salad. | Crispy Chicken Salad |
Health Benefits of Vegan Apple Cake
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Fiber | Supports digestion |
| Vitamin C | Boosts immunity |
| Antioxidants | Fights free radicals |
| Low Cholesterol | Promotes heart health |
Learn more at Healthline.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Label with the date.
Thawing
Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, wrapped in foil, for a fresh-baked taste.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sticky Caramel
Grease the pan well and use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Dense Cake
Avoid overmixing and ensure accurate flour measurement.
Soggy Texture
Slice apples thinly and cool on a rack to avoid excess moisture.
Reader Q&A
Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture.
Can I use coconut sugar? Yes, substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Can I make it nut-free? Use oat milk instead of almond milk for a nut-free option.
User Feedback and Variations
Readers love this cake! @VeganBaker on X shared: “This vegan upside down apple cake is a hit! Added mango for a tropical twist!” Try their variation or share your own below. See more vegan ideas in our desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Main Ingredients?
Apples, flour, vegan butter, brown sugar, almond milk, cinnamon, and baking powder.
Can I Use Any Type of Apples?
Yes, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best for tartness and structure.
What Tools Do I Need?
A 9-inch cake pan, mixing bowls, whisk, and apple peeler.
How Do I Make It Moist?
Use applesauce and avoid overbaking; check at 35 minutes.
How Should I Store It?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Are There Health Benefits?
Yes, it’s high in fiber, low in cholesterol, and rich in antioxidants.
Conclusion
The vegan upside down apple cake recipe is a delicious, healthy, and ethical dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With its caramelized apples and warm spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Baked this recipe? Share your favorite topping in the comments or tag us on X with #MangoesPalmTrees! Explore more desserts or take our Cake Personality Quiz. Happy baking!
