This super moist upside down gluten free apple cake is perfect for anyone craving a taste of fall. It is homemade and topped with a caramel drizzle that is the perfect base for creamy vanilla ice cream.

Gluten free apple cake on a white cake stand

Why I love this apple cake recipe

Gluten-free goodness: Thanks to a quality blend of gluten-free flour, you won't even know this recipe is gluten free. With the same great texture as a regular apple cake, this is a great option for those with celiac disease or another gluten allergy. Bob's red mill or King Author's gluten-free flour blend is my favorite kind.
It's customizable: While this recipe is already a show stopper, you can make it your own with your favorite toppings.
Perfect for any occasion: Like these easy apple cider cupcakes or gluten free pineapple upside down cake , this cake is suitable for any occasion. From laid back family gathering to a special events, this cake has got you covered.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe couldn't be easier to put together. Just like these oat flour pancakes with maple syrup.

My favorite thing to do when making an apple cake is using a variety of different kinds of fresh apples. This allows for all kinds of apple flavor. Honey crisp, granny smith, golden delicious apples, pink lady, etc. combine nicely to give you sweetness, tartness, and a crisp taste.

How to make a gluten free apple cake

Dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine dry ingredients.

Wet ingredients: In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat together wet ingredients until mixed well. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet and incorporate.

Prepare: Spray a 9 inch cake pan with non-stick cooking spray. Then, spread out melted butter and brown sugar in the bottom of the pan.

Arrange: Place the sliced apples in concentric circles on top of the brown sugar. Pour the cake batter over the apples.

Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

The sauce: While the cake is baking, boil butter, brown sugar, and cream. Whisk consistently and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Pro tip: I recommend using really good quality butter like Kerrygold for the best results.

Recipe variations

Apple pear cake: Replace half of the fresh apple slices with pear slices for a fun flavor twist.
Touch of spices: If you want to embrace the warm fall flavors, add a touch of nutmeg and cloves to the batter along with the cinnamon and allspice.
Chopped nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for an extra crunch and hint of nuttiness.

More easy gluten free recipes

These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies made with almond flour are the perfect healthy dessert or after school snack.
If you have leftover diced apples, serve them with this baked brie and jam.
This gluten-free sweet potato casserole is another great recipe for fall.
These gluten-free apple pie jars just like a traditional apple pie, but in a cute little jar!
If I need a lazy but delicious dessert recipe, this instant pot apple crisp is always my go-to.

This post was originally published December 6, 2018 but has since been updated on July 21, 2022 with new photos and some helpful information. Here is the original photo...