Sugar-Free Banana Apple Oatmeal Cake with Raisins, Walnuts, and Orange Zest

Looking for a healthy, naturally sweet dessert with no refined sugar or flour? This Banana Apple Oatmeal Cake is your perfect guilt-free indulgence. Packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, yogurt, bananas, and apples—and elevated with raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, vanilla, and orange zest—this wholesome bake is moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as breakfast, a midday snack, or a dessert, it’s a nourishing treat that’s both delicious and energizing.

Total Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 6–8 slices
Cuisine: Healthy / Sugar-Free Baking

Ingredients (in Cups and Grams)

  • 100 g (1 cup) oatmeal

  • 2 large eggs

  • 50 g (¼ cup) plain yogurt

  • 150 ml (⅔ cup) milk

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

  • 1 apple, diced

  • 1 tablespoon butter (or replace with water for a lighter option)

  • 40 g (¼ cup) raisins

  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 50 g (⅓ cup) walnuts, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (from one orange)

  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon honey, for glazing

  • Almond flakes, for topping

Instructions

1. Prep the Wet Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.

  • Add eggs, yogurt, and milk. Whisk until combined.

2. Add Dry Ingredients

  • Stir in the oatmeal, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

  • Mix in the raisins and chopped apple.

  • Let the mixture rest while preparing the nuts and zest.

3. Enhance the Flavor

  • In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat (or heat water as a substitute).

  • Lightly sauté the diced apple for 3–4 minutes to soften. Add to the batter.

  • Mix in chopped walnuts and orange zest. Optional: add grated ginger for a warm, spicy kick.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish

  • Soak parchment paper in water, wring it out, and line a baking tin. This trick keeps the cake moist and prevents sticking.

5. Bake the Cake

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F).

  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

  • Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden and set.

6. Final Touches

  • While warm, brush the top with a light layer of honey for natural gloss and sweetness.

  • Sprinkle with almond petals or slivered almonds for texture and presentation.

7. Serve

  • Let cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or chilled, with a cup of tea or coffee.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.

  • Pair with fresh fruit slices or a smoothie for a wholesome breakfast.

  • Cut into bars and store as grab-and-go snacks.

Cooking Tips

  • Use very ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness.

  • Swap out raisins for chopped dates, cranberries, or dried apricots.

  • Add chia or flax seeds for extra fiber and protein.

  • For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Oats: High in fiber, support digestion and heart health.

  • Bananas & Apples: Provide potassium, natural sweetness, and vitamins.

  • Yogurt & Eggs: Add protein, calcium, and texture.

  • Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats and brain-boosting omega-3s.

  • Raisins: Natural energy from dried fruit with iron and antioxidants.

Dietary Information

  • Sugar-Free: No added refined sugar—sweetened naturally by fruit and honey glaze.

  • Flourless: Uses oats instead of flour.

  • Vegetarian: Yes

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and yogurt alternatives.

  • Nut-Free Option: Omit walnuts and almond flakes.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

  • Reheat: Warm in a microwave or toaster oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No Guilt: Naturally sweet and nutritious.

  • Versatile: Perfect as breakfast, snack, or dessert.

  • One-Bowl Mix: Simple prep with minimal cleanup.

  • Flavorful & Moist: Thanks to banana, apple, yogurt, and honey.

  • Kid-Friendly & Adult-Approved: A great way to sneak in fruit and fiber.

Conclusion
This Banana Apple Oatmeal Cake is proof that healthy baking can be absolutely delicious. With no sugar or flour, this easy, wholesome recipe brings out the best in natural ingredients—fruity, nutty, creamy, and just a little indulgent with that final touch of honey and almonds. Whether you’re on a clean-eating journey or just love nourishing treats, this one’s a keeper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
    Yes, quick oats work well and make the texture more tender.

  • Can I make this vegan?
    Yes, replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and yogurt.

  • Is this recipe suitable for kids?
    Absolutely! It’s naturally sweet and full of healthy ingredients.

  • Can I skip the honey glaze?
    Yes, it’s optional but adds a nice finish.

  • Can I add protein powder?
    Yes, replace a small portion of oats (20 g) with protein powder if desired.

  • How do I know when it’s done baking?
    Insert a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

  • What can I use instead of walnuts?
    Almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds work great—or omit entirely.

  • Is this a good meal prep option?
    Yes! It stores well and is perfect for planning ahead.

  • Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
    Bananas must be ripe and thawed; apples should be fresh for best texture.

  • Can I make it into muffins instead?
    Yes! Bake in muffin tins for 20–22 minutes.