Oat and Kefir Cake with Carrots and Apples

This wholesome and moist cake combines the goodness of oats, kefir, carrots, apples, and honey. It’s a healthy alternative to traditional cakes and is perfect for breakfast or a snack. The natural sweetness of apples and honey, along with the texture of ground oats and poppy seeds, make this cake both nutritious and delicious.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients:

  • 120g oat flakes (1 ¼ cups)
  • 200g kefir (¾ cup)
  • 2 eggs
  • 30g honey (2 tablespoons)
  • 2 carrots, grated (about 150g)
  • 2 apples, grated (about 200g)
  • 20g poppy seeds (2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for greasing)
  • Optional: cinnamon, vanilla extract, or nuts for extra flavor

Directions:

  1. Prepare the oats:
    • Grind the oat flakes into flour using a blender or food processor.
  2. Combine the kefir and oats:
    • In a mixing bowl, add 200g kefir to the ground oats. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the moisture.
  3. Mix in the wet ingredients:
    • After the oats have absorbed the kefir, add the 2 eggs and 30g honey to the mixture. Stir until combined.
  4. Grate the vegetables and fruits:
    • Grate 2 carrots and 2 apples. Add the grated carrots and apples to the oat mixture.
  5. Add poppy seeds:
    • Stir in the 20g poppy seeds and mix everything thoroughly.
  6. Prepare the baking dish:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking dish with oil to prevent sticking.
  7. Bake the cake:
    • Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Cool and serve:
    • Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm or cold.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve this cake as a healthy breakfast with yogurt or a light snack with a cup of tea.
  • You can also drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the top for extra sweetness.

Cooking Tips:

  • Add-ins: Feel free to add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Chopped nuts or raisins can also add texture.
  • Grating: Grate the carrots and apples finely to ensure they blend well with the oats.
  • Oil substitute: If you want a lighter version, you can use applesauce instead of oil for greasing.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Oats and kefir: Rich in fiber and probiotics, promoting good digestion and heart health.
  • Carrots and apples: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, supporting immune health.
  • Poppy seeds: A source of calcium and healthy fats.
  • Honey: A natural sweetener that provides antioxidants and reduces the need for refined sugar.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: This cake is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based kefir or yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
  • No added sugar: The natural sweetness from honey, apples, and carrots means no refined sugar is needed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 230
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fats: 7g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 12g

Storage:

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices and reheat them as needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Nutrient-rich: It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, fiber-packed cake without refined sugar.
  • Simple and wholesome: Made with whole, natural ingredients that are easy to find.
  • Delicious texture: The combination of oats, grated vegetables, and fruit makes for a moist, flavorful cake.
  • Versatile: You can serve it as breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert.

Conclusion:

This oat and kefir cake is the perfect balance of healthy and tasty, combining the natural sweetness of apples and honey with the wholesome texture of oats, carrots, and poppy seeds. It’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a guilt-free treat. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a snack, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings in a healthy way.


Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use yogurt instead of kefir?
    Yes, you can substitute kefir with yogurt if needed. Both will provide a similar tangy flavor and texture.
  2. Can I use gluten-free oats?
    Absolutely! If you have gluten sensitivity, opt for certified gluten-free oats.
  3. Can I replace the eggs?
    Yes, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) or applesauce as a vegan alternative.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
    Yes, simply replace the kefir with plant-based yogurt, honey with maple syrup, and eggs with a vegan alternative like flax eggs.
  5. How do I know when the cake is done?
    Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
  6. Can I add spices or flavorings?
    Definitely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract are great additions for extra flavor.
  7. Can I use a different type of fruit?
    Yes, pears or peaches can be used instead of apples, depending on what you have on hand.
  8. What if I don’t have poppy seeds?
    You can skip the poppy seeds or replace them with chia seeds or sesame seeds for a similar texture.
  9. How can I make the cake sweeter?
    You can add a little more honey or drizzle maple syrup over the top if you prefer a sweeter cake.
  10. Can I use quick oats instead of oat flakes?
    Yes, quick oats will work in place of oat flakes, though the texture may be slightly different.