Apple-Walnut Upside-Down Cake

Preparation

1. Step 1

   For the topping, melt 1 teaspoon of the butter in a medium-size cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the apples and saute until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Combine the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and the brown sugar in a small saucepan and stir over low heat until melted and well blended. Butter a 10-inch pan with 3-inch sides and spread the brown- sugar mixture in the bottom. Arrange the apple slices in the pan in concentric circles. Set aside.

2. Step 2

   For the cake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time and beat until light. Mix in the vanilla. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt and walnuts. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture alternately with the milk, mixing just to combine. Spread the batter evenly over the apples. Bake until the cake springs back when touched in the center, about 1 hour. Let stand for 10 minutes and invert onto a cake plate. Let cool. Serve slightly warm.