Bright & Delicious Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake
If you’re in search of a wholesome dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also packs a nutritional punch, look no further than this Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake. This delightful treat combines the natural sweetness of apples and the earthy flavor of carrots with hearty oats, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or a snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge!
What You’ll Need for Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this nutritious cake:
- 2 cups rolled oats (200 g)
- 1 cup milk (200 ml)
- 3 eggs
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 medium apple, diced
- 80 g raisins (2.82 oz)
- 8–10 dried apricots, chopped
- 1 tsp baking powder
How to Make Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake
Ready to dive into baking? Follow these easy steps to create your delicious cake:
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Prep the Dried Fruits: Begin by placing the raisins and chopped apricots in hot water for about 5 minutes to soften them. Drain and set aside.
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Blend the Oats: In a blender, blend the rolled oats until they resemble a fine flour. This will create a great base for your cake.
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Mix Oats and Milk: Combine the blended oats with the milk in a bowl. Let this mixture rest for 10-15 minutes so the oats can absorb the liquid.
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Prepare Your Fruits and Veggies: While the oat mixture is resting, grate the carrot and dice the apple into small cubes.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat-milk mixture with the eggs, baking powder, soaked fruits, grated carrot, and diced apple. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
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Prep Your Baking Dish: Grease or line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Spread and Bake: Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees C (350 degrees F) for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
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Let It Rest: Once baked, let the cake rest in the dish for 10 minutes before slicing. This will help it set properly.
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Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake into squares or bars. You can enjoy it warm or let it cool down. Store any leftovers in the fridge or freezer for prolonged freshness.
How to Serve Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake
Serving this cake is all about creativity and personal preference! Here are a few suggestions to elevate your experience:
- Warm or Chilled: It’s delicious either warm right out of the oven or cold from the fridge.
- Toppings Galore: Serve with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Breakfast or Snack: Great on its own or served with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Expert Tips for Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake
- Add Spice: For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
- Nutty Twist: Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts for added texture and nourishment.
- Substitution Ideas: If you’re out of one of the fruits, you can swap in other dried fruits like cranberries or figs.
Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
A: While rolled oats work best for this recipe, you can use instant oats in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly different.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for up to three months.
Q: Can I replace eggs with a vegan option?
A: Yes! You can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) as an egg substitute.
There you have it! A simple and wholesome recipe for Healthy Apple Carrot Oatmeal Cake that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and delight in the wonderful flavors and wholesome goodness it brings!