Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake: A Comforting Treat for Any Occasion

Are you in the mood for a delicious homemade dessert but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further than our Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake! This simple yet scrumptious cake is perfect for those days when you want a comforting treat without the hassle of complicated recipes. With a moist oatmeal base and a sweet coconut topping, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Join us as we explore how to make this irresistible dessert and discover why it’s the perfect indulgence for lazy days or any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup uncooked rolled oats (instant or regular)
• 1 1/4 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup butter or margarine
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons cream or milk
• 3/4 cup flaked coconut
• 1/3 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and boiling water. Let it sit for about 20 minutes to allow the oats to soften.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the soaked oats, and mix until smooth.

3. Bake the Cake:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Prepare the Topping:

1. While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and cream until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the flaked coconut and chopped nuts, if using.

5. Add the Topping:

1. Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the topping evenly over the hot cake.
2. Return the cake to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
2. Enjoy this delightful Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake as a dessert or sweet treat any time of day!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Adding Fruit: For a fruity twist, you can add diced apples, raisins, or chopped cherries to the cake batter before baking.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts from the topping.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version of this cake, substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour, and use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar. Adjust the topping ingredients accordingly to fit your keto macros.
• Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter and topping, or use a sugar-free sweetener to lower the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? A: Yes, quick oats can be used as a substitute for rolled oats in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cake may be slightly different.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer storage.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover cake slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

With its warm, comforting flavors and simple preparation, our Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat on a lazy afternoon or looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert to serve at gatherings, this cake is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and discover why it’s a beloved favorite for lazy days and beyond!