Carrot and Apple Oatmeal Cake

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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:

1. 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.
2. Can I replace the kefir with another ingredient?
   • Yes, you can use yogurt, buttermilk, or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
3. Can I add spices to the batter?
   • Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice would complement the flavors well.
4. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
   • Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
5. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
   • Yes, maple syrup, agave nectar, or even brown sugar can be used.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Can I add other ingredients like raisins or nuts?
   • Yes, raisins, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries can be added to the batter.
9. 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.
10. 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.