If you’re looking for a guilt-free, wholesome dessert or snack, this Healthy Oatmeal and Fruit Cake is the perfect choice. Packed with nutritious oats, naturally sweet fruits, and no refined sugar, it makes for a delicious and nutritious treat that you can enjoy any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a delightful breakfast option, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping things light and nourishing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (natural sweeteners)
- 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries, etc.)
- 1/2 cup fresh fruits (such as apples, bananas, or berries, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan or cake tin with oil or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional). Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup oil until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently. Slowly add 1/4 cup of milk to the batter, ensuring the mixture is moist but not too runny.
5. Add Fruits
- Fold in the mixed dried fruits and fresh fruits of your choice. Gently stir until the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour into the Cake Tin
- Pour the cake batter into your prepared loaf pan or cake tin, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve!
A Nutritious and Delicious Treat
This Healthy Oatmeal and Fruit Cake is not only tasty but also loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the oats and fruits. It’s a great option for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert that you can feel good about. The natural sweetness from the honey or maple syrup, combined with the juicy fruit, ensures every bite is both satisfying and nourishing. Enjoy this wholesome cake with a cup of tea or coffee, or pack it as a convenient on-the-go snack!
