This Carrot and Apple Oatmeal Cake is a wholesome and delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with simple, nutritious ingredients like oatmeal, kefir, and fresh fruits, this cake is both hearty and flavorful. The addition of walnuts adds a delightful crunch, making this cake a satisfying and healthy option for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (130 g) oatmeal
- 1 cup (250 ml) kefir
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons (50 g) honey or syrup
- 2 carrots (about 300 g), grated on a fine grater
- 2 apples (about 320 g), grated
- Walnuts (optional, for topping or mixing in)
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including baking time)
Directions:
- Prepare the Oatmeal and Kefir:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with 1 cup of kefir. Stir well to ensure the oatmeal is fully soaked. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the oatmeal to absorb the kefir and soften.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of honey or syrup and mix until well combined.
- Add the Fruits and Vegetables:
- Grate the carrots and apples using a fine grater. Add the grated carrots and apples to the egg mixture, and stir until evenly distributed.
- Combine All Ingredients:
- Add the soaked oatmeal and kefir mixture to the bowl with the egg, carrot, and apple mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- If you like, you can mix in some chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serving:
- Let the cake cool slightly in the baking dish before cutting it into squares or slices.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with additional honey, syrup, or a sprinkle of walnuts.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra honey for added sweetness.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack or breakfast.
- This cake is great on its own, but you can also serve it with fresh fruit on the side.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the oatmeal is well soaked in kefir to achieve a soft, moist texture in the cake.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Use a variety of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Fuji for sweetness.
- To make the cake extra moist, consider adding a tablespoon of melted butter or oil to the batter.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oatmeal is a great source of fiber and helps to keep you full longer.
- Carrots and apples provide vitamins, minerals, and natural sweetness without the need for much added sugar.
- Walnuts add healthy fats and a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- It can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oatmeal.
- Dairy-free if you substitute kefir with a non-dairy yogurt or milk.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Calcium: 70mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
Storage:
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- The combination of carrots, apples, and oatmeal makes this cake both healthy and satisfying.
- Perfect for meal prep, this cake can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.
- The recipe is versatile and can be adapted to include your favorite spices or nuts.
Conclusion: This Carrot and Apple Oatmeal Cake is a nutritious and delicious treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. The combination of fresh fruits, hearty oatmeal, and sweet honey creates a naturally sweet and satisfying cake that’s both easy to make and enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try today and savor the wholesome flavors!
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
- Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Quick oats will result in a softer cake.
- Can I replace the kefir with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can use yogurt, buttermilk, or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
- Can I add spices to the batter?
- Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice would complement the flavors well.
- How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
- Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
- Yes, maple syrup, agave nectar, or even brown sugar can be used.
- What type of apples work best for this recipe?
- Any apple variety works, but a mix of tart and sweet apples is ideal for balanced flavor.
- Can I make this cake vegan?
- Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a non-dairy kefir or milk.
- Can I add other ingredients like raisins or nuts?
- Yes, raisins, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries can be added to the batter.
- How do I know when the cake is done baking?
- Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Can I freeze this cake?
- Yes, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.