Imagine starting your day with a slice of sunshine – this Golden Sunrise Carrot-Apple Oat Cake is more than just a dessert. It’s a nutritious, flavor-packed morning treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats, the natural sweetness of carrots and apples, and a warm blend of comforting spices. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers who don’t want to compromise on taste.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 200g (2 cups) rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 240ml (1 cup) milk
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 medium carrots, finely grated (about 1½ cups)
- 2 medium apples, peeled and grated (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup raisins or chopped dates (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan
- Line bottom with parchment paper
- Prepare Oats
- Combine rolled oats and baking powder in a large bowl
- Pulse half the oats in a blender to flour-like consistency
- Return ground oats to whole oats
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- Whisk eggs, milk, melted coconut oil, applesauce
- Add honey and vanilla extract
- Combine with oat mixture
- Add Fresh Ingredients
- Squeeze excess moisture from grated carrots and apples
- Fold carrots and apples into batter
- Add spices, salt, walnuts, and optional raisins/dates
- Bake
- Pour batter into prepared pan
- Smooth top with spatula
- Bake 45-50 minutes
- Check with toothpick for doneness
- Cool and Serve
- Cool in pan for 15 minutes
- Transfer to wire rack
- Cool completely
- Store in airtight container
Nutritional Information
Per Slice (serves 8):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Total Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes Yield: 8 servings
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh, organic produce for best flavor
- Grate carrots and apples just before adding to prevent browning
- Don’t overmix to maintain cake’s light texture
- For extra moisture, use very ripe apples
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats
- Dairy-free: Replace milk with almond or oat milk
- Vegan: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk
- Nut-free: Omit walnuts or replace with seeds
- Add dark chocolate chips for indulgence
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for 5 days
Q: Is this cake suitable for children? A: Absolutely! Nutritious and kid-friendly
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
Q: How can I make it less sweet? A: Omit honey and reduce raisins
Q: Is this cake good for breakfast? A: Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate in airtight container
- Best consumed within 5 days
- Can be made night before
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed
Enjoy your wholesome Golden Sunrise Carrot-Apple Oat Cake!