Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe

The Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe is a beautiful, caramelized apple cake that is soft, sweet and perfect for dessert.

It is a classic French-style upside-down cake with tender, buttery apples on top. Many people love this Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe because it is impressive but easy to make at home.

You only need simple ingredients, and the process is straightforward. If you want a dessert that is elegant, fruity and full of flavor, this recipe is perfect. Today, I will show you How to make Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin step by step.

My Experience With This Recipe

The first time I made this cake, my kitchen smelled amazing. The caramelized apples and buttery cake were irresistible.

I like this recipe because it looks fancy but is simple to prepare. The steps are easy to follow, and the cake turns out beautifully every time.

Now, I make it for special occasions and family gatherings. Everyone loves the sweet, soft apples and the moist cake underneath. It always impresses guests.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe
• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 50 mins
• Total Time: 70 mins
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: French-inspired
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven mitts

Ingredients You Need for Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe

• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup brown sugar (optional, for extra caramel)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pan by lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Caramelize the Apples

In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup butter and ¾ cup sugar over medium heat. Stir until golden and caramelized. Add apple slices and cook 3–4 minutes.

3. Arrange Apples in Pan

Carefully transfer caramelized apples to the cake pan. Arrange them neatly in a single layer. Pour any remaining caramel over the top.

4. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs, milk and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.

5. Pour Batter Over Apples

Pour cake batter evenly over the arranged apples. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Make sure apples stay covered but not buried.

6. Bake the Cake

Place the cake pan in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes. The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

7. Cool and Invert the Cake

Allow cake to cool for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges, then carefully invert onto a serving plate. Tap gently to release apples and caramel.

8. Serve the Cake

Serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the soft cake and caramelized apple topping.

Tips to Make the Best Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin

• Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
• Don’t overcook the caramel to avoid bitterness.
• Grease the pan well to prevent sticking.
• Arrange apples neatly for an attractive top.
• Serve warm with cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking apples, which makes them mushy.
• Not preheating the oven, causing uneven baking.
• Using too soft apples, which lose shape when inverted.
• Not letting cake cool slightly before flipping.
• Skipping vanilla extract, which enhances flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe is perfect as a dessert for dinner parties or holidays.

Serve with fresh whipped cream or Peach Ice Cream. It also pairs well with coffee or tea. This elegant cake can be the centerpiece of any special meal.

Variations You Can Try

• Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over apples for warm spice.
• Add toasted almonds on top for crunch.
• Use pears instead of apples for a different flavor.
• Drizzle caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
• Make mini versions in muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving.
• Do not freeze the cake; caramel texture changes when frozen.
• Keep covered to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	15 g
Sugar	30 g
Sodium	180 mg

Health Benefits

This dessert provides some vitamins and fiber from the apples. Using real butter and eggs adds protein and nutrients. Although sweet, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Read More: Ina Garten Blueberry Crumb Cake Recipe

FAQs about Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake it a day ahead and store in the refrigerator. Serve slightly warmed for best taste.

2. Can I use other apples?

Yes, but choose firm varieties. Soft apples may become too mushy during baking.

3. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Texture may vary slightly.

4. How do I prevent sticking when flipping?

Grease the pan well and let cake cool 10 minutes before carefully inverting onto a plate.

5. Can I make mini cakes?

Yes, use muffin tins or small ramekins. Reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin Recipe is elegant, sweet and full of flavor. Now you know How to make Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin at home.

The Ingredients for Barefoot Contessa Apple Cake Tatin are simple, but the result is stunning. This dessert is perfect for holidays, parties or special family dinners.

Try this cake today. Its soft, buttery cake and caramelized apples will impress everyone at your table.