This baked apple oatmeal cake with nuts is a warm, comforting, and nutritious breakfast that combines the rustic charm of rolled oats with the natural sweetness of apples and the satisfying crunch of nuts. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, apples, oats, and butter, this recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty and healthy way to start the day. Whether you’re looking to meal prep your breakfast for the week or need a fuss-free dessert option that’s good for your body and soul, this recipe delivers both flavor and nourishment.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: European, Healthy Baking
Ingredients
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1 cup (90g) rolled oats
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3 large eggs
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2 apples, peeled and grated or finely chopped
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20g unsalted butter (for richness and moisture)
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50g mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts), chopped
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1 tablespoon sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sugar substitute)
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1 tablespoon avocado oil (or any mild oil for baking)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 180°C (360°F). Prepare a small baking dish (about 8×8 inches) by lightly greasing it with oil or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the apples
Peel and grate or finely chop the apples. This ensures they mix well into the batter and provide natural sweetness and moisture throughout the bake.
3. Mix wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until combined. Add the sweetener, avocado oil, and melted butter. Mix well.
4. Add the dry ingredients
Stir in the rolled oats, chopped nuts, and apples. Mix until everything is fully incorporated. Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the liquid and soften.
5. Bake the cake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and serve
Let the oatmeal cake rest for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~180
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 6g (mostly natural from apples)
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Baked oatmeal is a beloved dish that has its roots in traditional European peasant cooking, where simple ingredients were baked together to create nourishing meals. In modern kitchens, baked oatmeal has become a favorite for breakfast meal prep due to its ease, adaptability, and wholesome ingredients. The addition of apples and nuts makes this version particularly popular among those who enjoy seasonal, comforting flavors.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Naturally sweet: Made with apples and your choice of sweetener.
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Minimal prep: Just mix and bake—no fancy techniques required.
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Versatile: Serve it as breakfast, dessert, or a healthy snack.
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Meal-prep friendly: Bake once and enjoy for several days.
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Kid-approved: The soft, cake-like texture and sweet apple flavor make it appealing to all ages.
Health Benefits
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Oats help reduce cholesterol and support heart health thanks to beta-glucan fiber.
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Apples provide vitamin C, fiber, and natural sweetness.
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Nuts add healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.
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Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
This combination results in a breakfast that sustains energy levels, supports digestion, and satisfies sweet cravings healthfully.
Serving Suggestions
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Drizzle with Greek yogurt and honey for extra creaminess.
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Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy morning routine.
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Top with fresh fruit or a spoonful of nut butter for added indulgence.
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Slice into bars and pack for an on-the-go snack or lunchbox treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping the rest time for oats: Allowing them to absorb liquid ensures a better texture.
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Using steel-cut oats: They won’t soften properly and will remain chewy. Stick to rolled oats.
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Overbaking: Check at 25 minutes and don’t let the top get too dark.
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Not greasing the pan: This can lead to sticking and messy slices. Use oil or parchment.
Pairing Recommendations
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Beverages: Chai latte, herbal tea, or cold-brew coffee.
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Fruits: Sliced bananas, blueberries, or baked pears.
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Condiments: Peanut butter, almond butter, or fruit compote.
Cooking Tips
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Let the mixture rest before baking so oats soften and the mixture thickens.
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For a more dessert-like flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
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Use super ripe apples for the best sweetness and moisture.
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Double the batch for meal prep and freeze individual portions.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Baked Banana Oatmeal
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Apple Cinnamon Oat Bars
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Oatmeal Raisin Breakfast Muffins
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Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal
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Pear and Almond Oat Squares
Variations to Try
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Cinnamon Raisin: Add 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 cup raisins.
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Banana Nut: Use mashed banana in place of one apple and add walnuts.
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Coconut Apple: Add shredded coconut and a few drops of almond extract.
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Savory version: Skip the sweetener, add cheese, herbs, and shredded zucchini.
Ingredient Spotlight: Apples
Apples are the star ingredient in this bake. They bring moisture, natural sweetness, and a tender texture. Apples are rich in fiber—especially pectin—which helps regulate digestion and supports healthy blood sugar levels. They also contain antioxidants like quercetin, which supports immune function. Choose firm, sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for this recipe.
Conclusion
This baked apple oatmeal cake with nuts is a delightful balance of nutrition and flavor. It’s easy to prepare, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable to what you have in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking it for your family or prepping breakfast for a busy week, this oatmeal cake is a comforting dish that brings warmth and health to your table. Simple, satisfying, and good for you—this is one bake you’ll want to make again and again.
FAQ
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats work just as well and will make the texture slightly softer.
2. How do I make it dairy-free?
Use a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
3. Can I freeze this oatmeal cake?
Yes. Slice into portions, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave to reheat.
4. Is it sweet enough without added sugar?
If your apples and bananas are ripe, they add plenty of sweetness. You can omit or reduce the sweetener as needed.
5. Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes, mix the ingredients the night before and bake in the morning. Or bake fully and reheat individual portions as needed.
6. What type of apples should I use?
Sweet-firm varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp work well. Granny Smith will be more tart.
7. How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
8. Can I turn it into muffins?
Yes! Pour into muffin tins and bake at the same temperature for 20–25 minutes.
9. What nut options are best?
Walnuts and almonds are great for crunch, but pecans or hazelnuts also work wonderfully.
10. Can I add protein powder?
Yes! Add 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder. If it thickens the batter, add a splash more milk.