This Apple Oat Cake is a wholesome, delicious treat made with gluten-free oat flakes, fresh apples, and optional dried cranberries. It’s high in fiber, protein, and various nutrients, making it a nutritious choice for breakfast or a snack. The natural sweetness of apples combined with the warmth of cinnamon makes this cake a comforting and satisfying dish.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 230 g (2 ½ cups) gluten-free oat flakes
- 7 g (½ tbsp) baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Wet Ingredients:
- 2 medium apples, peeled and grated
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 40 g (¼ cup) dried cranberries (optional)
- Egg Whites:
- 3 egg whites
- Pinch of salt
- Other:
- Coconut oil (or your choice of oil) for greasing the baking dish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Peel and grate the apples using a box grater and set them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oat flakes, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with vanilla extract until smooth. Add grated apples and dried cranberries (if using) to the egg yolk mixture. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold half of the beaten egg whites into the oat and apple mixture to lighten it. Repeat with the remaining egg whites, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- Grease a 26 x 10 cm (10 x 4 inch) baking dish with coconut oil.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite toppings.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit for a wholesome breakfast.
Cooking Tips
- Gently fold in egg whites to maintain the cake’s airy texture.
- Substitute cranberries with raisins, chopped dates, or nuts for variety.
- For extra moisture, add an additional grated apple or 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp based on your flavor preference.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats: Rich in fiber, protein, and nutrients like magnesium, promoting digestion and heart health.
- Apples: Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, supporting a healthy immune system and digestion.
- Eggs: High in protein and essential vitamins for muscle repair and overall health.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free if using coconut oil.
- Vegetarian: Yes.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 10 g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and wholesome with simple, accessible ingredients.
- Easy to make, perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Versatile enough for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy dessert.
- Packed with natural flavors and textures from apples and oats.
Conclusion
The Apple Oat Cake is a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the hearty goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of apples. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any time of day, whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast or a comforting dessert. Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to choice for any occasion. Try it today and savor the delightful flavors in every bite!
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers
- Can I use regular oats instead of gluten-free oats? Yes, if you’re not following a gluten-free diet, regular oats work just as well.
- What can I substitute for dried cranberries? Use raisins, chopped dates, or nuts as alternatives.
- Can I make this cake vegan? Replace egg yolks with flaxseed or chia seed mixtures and egg whites with aquafaba.
- What type of apples work best? Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet apples like Honeycrisp are great options.
- How can I make the cake moister? Add an extra grated apple or unsweetened applesauce.
- Can I add nuts to the recipe? Yes, chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and nutrients.
- Can I use this recipe to make muffins? Yes, divide the batter into muffin cups and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- How do I store the cake? Store in an airtight container at room temperature, refrigerate, or freeze as needed.
- Is this recipe suitable for kids? Absolutely! It’s a nutritious and kid-friendly option.
- Can I add more spices? Yes, nutmeg, ginger, or allspice are excellent additions for flavor variety.