If you’re looking for a healthy, easy-to-make cake that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack, this oatmeal and apple cake is the answer! With no added sugar or flour, this recipe relies on the natural sweetness of apples and bananas, making it a delicious yet nutritious option. In just a few minutes of preparation, you can have a wholesome cake that’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s ideal for anyone following a healthy diet, and you can enjoy it guilt-free!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oatmeal: Use rolled oats or quick oats. Oats provide fiber and help keep you full longer.
• 2 apples: Grated or finely chopped, they add natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• 100 ml water: To soften the oats and create a smooth batter.
• 1 banana: Mashed, it acts as a natural sweetener and binder for the cake.
• 2 eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• 80 g cranberries: Dried cranberries add a tart, chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweet apples and banana.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, complementing the apples and banana.
• Butter: For greasing the pan to prevent sticking.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (360°F) to allow it to heat while you prepare the cake.
• Grate the Apples: Grate or finely chop the apples and set them aside. This will add moisture and sweetness to the cake.
• Mash the Banana: In a separate bowl, mash the banana with a fork until smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• Combine Oats and Water: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats with 100 ml of water. Let the oats sit for a few minutes to absorb the water and soften.
• Add the Fruit: Stir in the grated apples and mashed banana.
• Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix thoroughly to incorporate them into the batter.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

• Add Cranberries: Stir in the 80 g of dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweet fruit.
• Mix in the Baking Powder and Cinnamon: Add 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

• Grease the Pan: Lightly grease a baking dish or cake pan with butter to prevent sticking.
• Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the greased pan and spread it out evenly.
• Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Cool: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing it.
• Serve: Enjoy your healthy oatmeal and apple cake warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a dollop of yogurt or nut butter.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 10g (natural sugars from fruit)

Cooking Tips:

• Add Nuts: For extra crunch and protein, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the batter.
• Substitute Fruit: If you don’t have cranberries, you can substitute raisins, chopped dates, or dried apricots.
• Make It Vegan: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk instead of water.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It stays moist and flavorful, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
  A: Yes! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you have a gluten sensitivity.
• Q: What if I don’t have cranberries?
  A: No problem! You can replace the cranberries with raisins, dried cherries, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Q: Can I add spices?
  A: Definitely! You can add nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of ground ginger to enhance the flavor profile.

Conclusion:

This Healthy Oatmeal and Apple Cake is the perfect guilt-free indulgence. With no added sugar or flour, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, apples, and cranberries, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re following a healthy diet or just looking for a light, tasty treat, this cake fits the bill. In just 5 minutes of preparation, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying slice of cake that nourishes both body and soul. Give it a try and share it with your family—they’ll never guess it’s so healthy!