A Nutritious Twist on Traditional Cake

This wholesome oatmeal apple cake combines the goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of fruits for a dessert you can feel good about enjoying. With no refined sugar and plenty of fiber, it makes a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack that satisfies your sweet tooth while providing lasting energy.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 200g (2 cups) rolled oat flakes
• 250ml (1 cup) milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 3 eggs
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 apple, grated (plus 1 additional apple for topping)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping

• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons oat flakes
• 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 7-8 inch (18-20cm) round cake pan.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the oat flakes, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until well combined.
4. Grate the apple: Peel and grate one apple, including the juice.
5. Combine mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, along with the grated apple. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should be thick but pourable.

Preparing the Topping

1. Slice the apple: Core the remaining apple and slice it thinly.
2. Arrange the slices: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on top of the batter.
3. Create the glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter or coconut oil. Add honey or maple syrup and cinnamon, stirring until combined. Remove from heat.
4. Apply the topping: Drizzle the glaze over the apple slices. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of oat flakes across the top.

Baking the Cake

1. Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Serve: Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Per slice (recipe makes 8 slices):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 5g

Timing:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 slices

Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Oat texture: For a finer texture, pulse the oats briefly in a food processor before using.
• Milk options: Any milk works well – dairy, almond, oat, or soy – choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
• Ripeness matters: Use very ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness.
• Apple varieties: Firmer apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Granny Smith hold their shape well during baking.
• Testing doneness: The cake should spring back when lightly touched in the center.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fruit options: Replace the banana with applesauce (about 1 cup) or mashed pears.
• Spice variations: Add nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a more complex flavor.
• Nut addition: Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and healthy fats.
• Gluten-free: Ensure you use certified gluten-free oats if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Extra sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cake, add 2-3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake keeps well for 2-3 days at room temperature in an airtight container, or up to 5 days refrigerated.

Is this cake freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Slice the cooled cake and freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats will work, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats provide more texture and a heartier bite.

How can I tell when the cake is properly baked?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cake should also feel firm and spring back when gently pressed.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard for dessert.
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
• For extra decadence, drizzle with a little extra honey or maple syrup when serving.