Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that you can enjoy anytime? This oatmeal carrot cake is just the ticket! Not only is it straightforward to whip up, but it’s also a healthier option, packed with the goodness of oats and carrots. The best part? It’s so simple, you might find yourself making it three times a week!

Why Oatmeal Carrot Cake?

Oatmeal and carrots bring a lovely texture and natural sweetness to this cake, reducing the need for a lot of added sugar. Oats are a great source of fiber, while carrots provide beta-carotene, vitamins, and antioxidants. This cake is a wonderful way to enjoy a treat while getting some nutritional benefits.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative if preferred)

  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce

  • ¼ cup vegetable oil (or substitute with olive oil)

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 ½ cups grated carrots

  • Optional: ½ cup raisins or walnuts

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

  3. Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

  4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated carrots and, if using, raisins or walnuts.

  5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  6. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

This cake is delicious on its own or topped with a light cream cheese frosting. It makes a perfect coffee companion or a wholesome dessert after a meal.

Conclusion:

This oatmeal carrot cake is a testament to the fact that baking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With its wholesome ingredients and easy steps, it’s a perfect recipe for anyone who loves the warmth of homemade baking without the fuss.