Name: Spiced Upside-Down Apple Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5–6 firm apples (e.g., Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/8 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for dusting); 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is both eye-catching and incredibly flavorful. The upside-down technique creates a glossy, caramelized apple topping without the need for extra decoration. The warm spice blend enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, while the flaky crust adds the perfect buttery crunch. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s easier to make than it looks and perfect for fall gatherings or holiday tables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Ground cloves
Ground ginger
Lemon juice
All-purpose flour (for dusting)
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Egg (for egg wash)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar until smooth. Pour this caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased pie pan.
Arrange sliced apples over the caramel in a circular pattern. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and a splash of lemon juice.
Roll out the pie crust and gently place it over the apples, tucking the edges in. Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.
Let the pie rest for 5–10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate while still warm to reveal the caramelized apple top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer before the apples.
Boozy Version: Splash a little bourbon or spiced rum into the caramel sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make it suitable for dietary needs.
Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a plant-based pie crust.
Crust Alternatives: Try puff pastry for a lighter, flakier texture.
Extra Spice: Add cardamom or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds. For best texture, avoid reheating in the microwave if possible. This pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Firm, tart-sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn hold their shape and provide great flavor balance.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for a more rustic feel.

Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, a good quality store-bought crust works well and saves time.

How do I prevent the pie from sticking when flipping?

Make sure to grease the pie dish well and allow the pie to rest briefly after baking before inverting.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, bake it a day in advance and reheat before serving for best flavor and presentation.

What if the caramel sticks to the pan?

If any apples or caramel stay behind when flipping, simply lift them out with a spatula and place them back on top of the pie.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, try combining apples with pears or cranberries for seasonal variety.

Is egg wash necessary?

No, but it gives the crust a nice golden sheen. You can also use milk or cream as an alternative.

Can I make this pie without spices?

Yes, but the spices add warmth and depth. You can adjust or omit them to suit your taste.

Should I serve it warm or cold?

This pie is best served warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Conclusion

Spiced Upside-Down Apple Pie is a beautiful and flavorful dessert that adds a fun twist to the traditional apple pie. With its rich caramel base, warm spices, and golden crust, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress guests and become a new seasonal favorite. Simple to prepare and delightful to eat, this pie is the perfect way to showcase fresh apples in a memorable way.