Start your day with a slice of goodness! This Healthy Breakfast Oatmeal Apple Cake is everything you want in a morning treat: soft, hearty, naturally sweetened, and packed with fiber and nutrients. It’s made with whole grain oats, crisp apples, warm spices, and better-for-you ingredients that make it just as suitable for breakfast as it is for dessert.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a crowd at brunch, or simply craving a cozy, comforting bake with your morning coffee, this apple oatmeal cake will hit the spot. And the best part? It’s gluten-free friendly, low in sugar, and incredibly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Oatmeal Cake
- ✅ Healthy & Filling: Made with rolled oats, fresh apples, and low-glycemic sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
- ✅ Perfect for Breakfast: It’s not overly sweet and keeps you full, thanks to its fiber and complex carbs.
- ✅ Easy to Make: One bowl, no mixer needed, and minimal cleanup.
- ✅ Naturally Sweetened: No refined sugar—just wholesome sweetness from apples, banana, and pure maple syrup.
- ✅ Moist Yet Light: Thanks to the balance of applesauce and grated apples.
- ✅ Meal Prep Hero: Store it in the fridge or freezer for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack all week long.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned)
- ½ cup almond flour or oat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed
- ⅓ cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Add-ins:
- 1 ½ cups grated or finely chopped apples (peeled if preferred)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tbsp raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Optional Topping:
- Extra apple slices for garnish
- Sprinkle of cinnamon or coconut sugar
- Handful of oats or nuts for crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, mashed banana, applesauce, maple syrup, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the grated apples, nuts, and raisins if using.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Add a few thin apple slices and a sprinkle of oats or cinnamon on top for visual appeal.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Grate the Apples: Grating apples makes the cake more moist and distributes the apple flavor evenly.
- Use Ripe Bananas: They add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Let it Cool: This helps the cake firm up and enhances flavor.
- Make it Ahead: It stores well and tastes even better the next day!
Variations
- Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts and use oat flour instead of almond flour.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder and reduce oats slightly.
- Extra Fruit: Toss in some chopped pears or berries for a fruitier twist.
How to Store
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving.
- Freeze: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight or heat directly from frozen.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of almond butter.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee, matcha, or chai tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Add a little whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt to make it dessert-worthy.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Breakfast Oatmeal Apple Cake is the perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and comfort. It’s soft, satisfying, and subtly sweet, with warm cinnamon-spiced apples in every bite. Whether you’re looking to clean up your breakfast routine or just want a new healthy bake, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your home.
It’s more than just a cake—it’s a nourishing way to begin your day.