-
1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
-
2
Generously butter a 9-inch glass pie dish and arrange the apples in the dish, cut side down.
-
3
Combine 1 cup of the granulated sugar and 1/3 cup water in a small saucepan and cook over high heat until it turns a warm amber color, about 360 degrees F on a candy thermometer.
-
4
Swirl the pan but don't stir.
-
5
Pour evenly over the apple slices.
-
6
Meanwhile, cream the 6 tablespoons of butter and the remaining 3/4 cup of granulated sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, until light and fluffy.
-
7
Lower the speed and beat in the eggs 1 at a time.
-
8
Add the sour cream, zest, and vanilla and mix until combined.
-
9
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt and, with the mixer on low speed, add it to the butter mixture.
-
10
Mix only until combined.
-
11
Pour the cake batter evenly over the apple slices and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until a cake tester comes out clean.
-
12
Cool for 15 minutes, then invert the cake onto a flat plate.
-
13
If an apple slice sticks, ease it out and replace it in the design on top of the cake.
-
14
Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with confectioners' sugar.
