Orange Oatmeal Cake

Enjoy a delicious and nutritious Orange Oatmeal Cake that’s perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. This cake combines the benefits of oatmeal, oranges, and yogurt, enhanced with spices and sweetened naturally with stevia. It’s a delightful treat that’s as wholesome as it is flavorful.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 180 per serving

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup oatmeal (90g)
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (240g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup stevia (or equivalent to 1 cup sugar)
  • 1 cup orange juice (240ml)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal, cinnamon, ginger, and baking soda.
  3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
    • In another bowl, whisk the eggs and then mix in the Greek yogurt, stevia, orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  5. Add Vinegar:
    • Mix the vinegar into the batter just before pouring it into the cake pan. This will help the baking soda react and give the cake a light, fluffy texture.
  6. Bake the Cake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients:

  • Oatmeal:
    • Rich in Fiber: Helps maintain healthy digestion and can aid in lowering cholesterol levels.
    • Slow Release of Energy: Keeps you fuller for longer and provides sustained energy.
  • Oranges:
    • High in Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and improves skin health.
    • Natural Sweetness: Adds a refreshing flavor and natural sweetness to the cake.
  • Greek Yogurt:
    • Protein and Calcium: Supports bone health and digestion.
    • Creamy Texture: Adds moisture and a tender crumb to the cake.
  • Eggs:
    • High-Quality Protein: Provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
    • Binding and Structure: Helps the cake rise and gives it structure.
  • Stevia:
    • Natural Sweetener: With zero calories, it’s a great alternative to sugar and does not affect blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetics.
  • Spices (Cinnamon and Ginger):
    • Cinnamon: Regulates blood sugar levels and adds a warm, sweet flavor.
    • Ginger: Aids in digestion and adds a subtle, spicy kick.
  • Baking Soda (Deglazed with Vinegar):
    • Leavening Agent: Helps the cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.

Recipe Tips and Variations:

  • Orange Zest: Make sure to zest the orange finely to avoid large pieces of zest in the cake.
  • Yogurt Variations: You can use any type of yogurt, but Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and protein.
  • Stevia Amount: Adjust the amount of stevia to taste, as sweetness levels can vary.

Serving Suggestions:

  • With Fresh Fruit: Serve the cake with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing touch.
  • Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice with your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful snack.

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Conclusion:

This Orange Oatmeal Cake is a wholesome, tasty, and easy-to-make treat that brings together nutritious ingredients for a satisfying dessert or snack. Its natural sweetness and moist texture make it a favorite for any time of day.

10 Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
    Yes, but Greek yogurt adds extra creaminess and protein.
  2. Is there a substitute for stevia?
    You can use honey, maple syrup, or sugar if preferred.
  3. Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the cake?
    Yes, adding nuts or dried fruit can enhance the flavor and texture.
  4. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
    Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, or use certified gluten-free oats.
  5. Can I use a different citrus fruit?
    Yes, you can substitute with lemon or lime for a different flavor profile.
  6. How do I know when the cake is done?
    A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
  7. Can I use frozen orange juice?
    Yes, thaw frozen orange juice before using it in the recipe.
  8. How should I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  9. Can I use less stevia?
    Adjust to taste; you may need to increase other sweeteners if reducing stevia.
  10. Can I make this cake vegan?
    You can try egg substitutes like flax eggs or chia eggs, and use a non-dairy yogurt.