Oatmeal Apple Cake with Nuts and Dried Apricots

This Oatmeal Apple Cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. With a moist base made from oats and a hint of sweetness, it’s packed with apples, nuts, and dried apricots, making it both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Bake Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • Wet Ingredients:
    • 4 eggs
    • 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) oil
    • 4 tablespoons sweetener (or to taste)
    • A pinch of salt
    • Vanillin (or vanilla extract)
  • Dry Ingredients:
    • 2 cups oatmeal
    • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Add-ins:
    • 2 apples, peeled and diced
    • 1 cup nuts, chopped (e.g., walnuts or almonds)
    • 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
    • 30 g (about 1/4 cup) cranberries (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Prepare the Batter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the sweetener, salt, and vanillin until well combined.
    • Gradually add the oil and mix thoroughly.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In another bowl, combine the oatmeal, cornstarch, and baking powder. Mix well.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    • Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
    • Let the batter sit for 20 minutes to allow the oats to absorb moisture.
  5. Prepare the Pan:
    • Grease a 22 cm (9-inch) round baking pan.
  6. Layer the Ingredients:
    • Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
    • Sprinkle half of the chopped nuts and half of the diced apples over the batter.
    • Add the cranberries if using.
    • Pour the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the nuts and apples.
  7. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
    • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream.
  • Serve as a wholesome snack with tea or coffee.

Cooking Tips

  • For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
  • Feel free to substitute the nuts with your favorite seeds or dried fruits.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Oats provide fiber and essential nutrients, promoting digestive health.
  • Apples add vitamins and antioxidants, while dried fruits contribute natural sweetness and energy.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Nut-Free: Can be made nut-free by omitting nuts or using seeds instead.
  • Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 10 servings)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Sugar: 4g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • This cake can also be frozen; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s an easy and budget-friendly recipe that requires minimal prep time.
  • The combination of oats, fruits, and nuts makes it a nutritious choice for any meal.
  • A versatile recipe that can be customized with different fruits and nuts.
  • Perfect for meal prep or as a healthy treat for family gatherings!

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Apple Cake is a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in a delicious form. It’s moist, flavorful, and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Whether you serve it for dessert, breakfast, or a snack, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
    Yes, pears or berries would also work well.
  2. What can I substitute for the sweetener?
    You can use honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener of your choice.
  3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
    Yes, replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
  4. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
    Use certified gluten-free oats and check that your baking powder is gluten-free.
  5. What type of nuts work best?
    Walnuts, almonds, or pecans are all great choices.
  6. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  7. Can I make this in advance?
    Yes, it can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
  8. What if I don’t have cornstarch?
    You can substitute it with an equal amount of flour or arrowroot powder.
  9. How do I know when the cake is done?
    A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  10. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
    Absolutely! Chocolate chips would add a nice touch to the flavor.

Enjoy your Oatmeal Apple Cake! 🍏🥮