Decadent Oatmeal Cake: A Wholesome Treat for Any Occasion
Oatmeal cake is a delightful fusion of comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. This recipe transforms humble oats into a decadent dessert that will leave everyone craving for more. Moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious coconut and brown sugar glaze, this oatmeal cake is perfect for any gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts, pecans, or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oatmeal:
- In a large bowl, pour boiling water over the rolled oats. Let it sit for about 20 minutes to soften and cool.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until just incorporated. Fold in the soaked oats.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a saucepan, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut and chopped nuts.
- Apply Topping:
- Spread the topping evenly over the warm cake as soon as it comes out of the oven. Place the cake under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes or until the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Make it Nut-Free:
- Skip the chopped nuts if you have allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version. The cake will still be deliciously indulgent.
- Add Some Fruit:
- Incorporate diced apples, raisins, or dried cranberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
- Experiment with Spices:
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it at room temperature for up to two days. Simply warm it up in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q: Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats? A: Instant oats have a finer texture and may affect the consistency of the cake. It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for optimal results.
Q: Can I freeze this oatmeal cake? A: Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I make a keto version of this oatmeal cake? A: To make a keto-friendly version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour, and use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or stevia in place of granulated and brown sugar.
Q: How can I reduce the carbs in this recipe? A: For a lower-carb version, you can decrease the amount of sugar used in both the cake and topping, or replace it with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
Indulge in the comforting goodness of this oatmeal cake, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy dessert. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Customize it to your liking with different add-ins and substitutions, and enjoy every moist, delicious bite!
