Oatmeal apple cake is a delightful treat loaded with flavors, textures, and wholesome ingredients. Imagine the comforting warmth of baked apples mingled with the nutty notes of walnuts and the sweetness of dried apricots. This cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of tea. Easy to make, it’s a heartwarming option that brings together the goodness of oats and the sweetness of fruit, making it a deliciously satisfying choice for any time of day.
What You’ll Need for Oatmeal Apple Cake
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons caster sugar (or sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar (or vanilla essence)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 100 ml sunflower vegetable oil
- 2 cups oatmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 medium apples
- 3 tablespoons corn starch
- 1 cup walnut kernels
- 1 cup dried apricots
- 1-2 tablespoons dried cranberries
How to Make Oatmeal Apple Cake
- Begin by breaking the eggs into a deep bowl. Add the caster sugar, a pinch of salt, and vanilla sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Gradually incorporate the vegetable oil while continuing to mix.
- Using a spatula, gently fold in the oatmeal. Once fully combined, cover the bowl and let it sit for about 20 minutes—this allows the oats to soften nicely.
- Meanwhile, peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss the apple slices in corn starch to coat evenly, which helps prevent them from becoming too mushy during baking.
- Finely chop the walnuts and toast them in a pan over medium heat until they are lightly golden, which will deepen their flavor. Also, chop the dried apricots into small pieces for easier mixing.
- Spread half of the oatmeal mixture into a lined baking tray. Then, sprinkle half of the toasted walnuts, followed by half of the sliced apples, apricots, and cranberries.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining oatmeal mixtures and toppings.
- Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for about 55-60 minutes, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. You can do a toothpick test by inserting it in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Once baked, take it out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly, then slice and serve.
How to Serve Oatmeal Apple Cake
Serving oatmeal apple cake is all about highlighting its delicious flavors. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature—both are delightful! For an extra special touch, serve it with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of honey. A cup of your favorite tea or coffee makes a perfect pairing.
Slice the cake into squares or wedges for easy serving, and don’t hesitate to garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few extra chopped nuts for presentation.
Expert Tips for Oatmeal Apple Cake
- Customize Your Fruit: You can mix up the fruits used in the recipe based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Pears, blueberries, or even raspberries can be a tasty alternative to apples.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warming spice note that complements the sweetness of the apples perfectly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment—just be sure to wrap them well!
Oatmeal Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be softer compared to rolled oats. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture that many people enjoy.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this oatmeal apple cake gluten-free, ensure that you use certified gluten-free oats and check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you have allergies or simply don’t like walnuts, you can substitute with pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Give this oatmeal apple cake a try—you’ll love the comforting flavors and hearty texture. It’s not just a treat; it’s a slice of happiness! Enjoy baking!