Spice Apple Upside-Down Cake

1 (14 ounce) jar spiced apple rings
6 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened, divided
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
Whipped cream (optional)

Drain apple rings, reserving 1 tablespoon syrup; set apple rings aside. Melt 2 tablespoons butter; add brown sugar and reserved syrup. Spread evenly in a greased 8-inch round baking pan; sprinkle with almonds. Top with apple rings; set aside.

In a mixing bowl, beat egg, milk, vanilla extract and remaining butter. Combine flour, sugar and baking powder; add to egg mixture and mix well. Spoon over apple rings. Bake at 350 degrees F for 35 to 40 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of pan; invert cake onto a serving plate. Cool. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Yields 6 to 8 servings.