Oatmeal Carrot and Apple Cake with Poppy Seeds

This Oatmeal Carrot and Apple Cake with Poppy Seeds is a delicious, healthy treat that combines wholesome oats, juicy apples, and sweet carrots for a naturally sweet, moist cake. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, providing a nutritious and satisfying bite. The addition of kefir makes this cake extra moist, while the poppy seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

• 120g (1 1/4 cups) oat flakes
• 200g (3/4 cup) kefir
• 2 large eggs
• 30g (1 1/2 tablespoons) honey
• 2 medium carrots, grated (about 1 cup)
• 2 medium apples, grated (about 1 cup)
• 50g (1/4 cup) poppy seeds
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: nuts, raisins, or dried fruits

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Soak the oat flakes: In a bowl, combine the oats and kefir. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften.
3. Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the honey and vanilla extract.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Add the grated carrots and apples to the egg mixture, followed by the soaked oats and poppy seeds. Stir until well combined.
5. Add dry ingredients: Mix in the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Optionally, fold in nuts or dried fruit.
6. Pour into the prepared pan: Spread the batter evenly in the pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

5 Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Top with a light cream cheese frosting for a dessert-worthy treat.
• Enjoy with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and some fresh berries.
• Add a spoonful of almond or peanut butter for extra protein and flavor.

5 Cooking Tips

• For extra texture, add chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the batter.
• If you don’t have kefir, plain yogurt or buttermilk can be used as a substitute.
• Grate the carrots and apples finely for a smoother cake, or use a coarser grate for more texture.
• Let the oats soak fully in kefir to soften them and ensure a more tender cake.
• For a gluten-free version, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Benefits

• Oats: High in fiber and good for heart health.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
• Apples: Full of antioxidants and fiber, great for digestion.
• Honey: A natural sweetener with antioxidant properties.
• Poppy Seeds: A source of calcium and magnesium, supporting bone health.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian: This recipe is completely vegetarian.
• Low Sugar: Only natural sweeteners like honey are used.
• Gluten-Free: Can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
• Nut-Free: No nuts unless added optionally.
• Low-Fat: Contains no added oils or butter.

Nutritional Facts (per slice)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10g

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature or warm in the microwave.

5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, carrots, and apples.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy preparation make it perfect for any skill level.
• Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of kefir and grated fruits makes this cake extra moist and naturally sweet.
• Kid-Friendly: It’s a fun and nutritious way to sneak in fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Carrot and Apple Cake with Poppy Seeds is a delicious and nutritious treat that’s easy to make and versatile enough to enjoy any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, a midday snack, or a simple dessert, this cake has you covered with its wholesome ingredients and delightful flavor. With minimal added sugar and plenty of fiber, this is a cake you can feel good about eating.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the natural sweetness and soft texture. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and how nourishing it is to eat!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey? Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey.
2. Can I replace kefir with another ingredient? Yes, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for kefir.
3. Can I make this cake vegan? Yes, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) and a plant-based yogurt or kefir alternative.
4. Can I add more spices to the cake? Absolutely! Feel free to add nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a spicier flavor.
5. Can I freeze the cake for later? Yes, wrap the cake slices individually and freeze them for up to 3 months.