Caramelized Apple-Ginger Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Lightly coat two 6-inch round cake pans with cooking spray. Line bottom with a parchment round trimmed to fit, then lightly spray the paper. Divide the chopped walnuts evenly between each lined pan Set aside.In a small, heavy saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and 4 tablespoons butter. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to caramelize, about 6 minutes. Lower the heat and continue to cook an additional 6 or 7 minutes, or until mixture is thick and foamy and becomes a rich, light brown color.
2. 2
   Remove from heat and immediately pour half the caramel over each of the nut-lined cake pans. Spoon half the apples into each cake pan, then use the back of the spoon to spread the apples evenly across the bottom. Use caution as the caramel will be very, very hot.
3. 3
   Place the oven rack in the center position, then heat the oven to 350 degrees F.In a medium bowl, place the brown sugar and the remaining 5 tablespoon butter. Using a hand mixer, beat at medium speed until creamy, about 3 minutes.
4. 4
   Add the egg and molasses, and continue to beat another 2 or 3 minutes.In a separate medium bowl sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt.With the mixer on low, alternately beat in the buttermilk and dry ingredients in 2 or 3 additions, until well combined. Do not overmix.Scrape half the batter into each cake pan, spreading it evenly across the apples. Tap the pans flatly on the counter several times to release any trapped air.
5. 5
   Bake in the heated oven for 50 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the centers comes out clean.
6. 6
   Remove from oven and immediately use a blunt knife to loosen the sides of the cakes. Quickly invert each cake onto separate plates; leave pans in place for about 5 minutes then carefully remove them and peel off the parchment.
7. 7
   Let the cakes cool completely, then stack one on top of the other.
8. 8
   Garnish with dried apple rings, cinnamon-sugar, and mint leaves (if using).
9. 9
   Serve at room temperature.May be stored up to 3 days, covered at room temperature.