Upside-Down Caramelized Apple Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. 2
   Lightly butter the sides of a 9-inch cake pan (not a springform pan).
3. 3
   Combine the butter, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small saucepan and boil 30 seconds.
4. 4
   Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. 5
   Sprinkle the apples all over and press them down slightly to level them.
6. 6
   To make the cake, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until creamy.
7. 7
   Add the eggs and vanilla, and beat until very smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
8. 8
   Sprinkle in the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt, and beat 10 seconds.
9. 9
   Pour in the milk and beat just until the batter is evenly moistened, about 1 minute.
10. 10
    Spoon the batter over the apples and smooth the top.
11. 11
    Bake 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center of the cake comes out dry.
12. 12
    Run a knife along the outer edge of the cake to loosen it from the pan.
13. 13
    Place a plate over the cake, then flip it over to invert the cake onto the plate.
14. 14
    Let the cake cool completely before serving.