Homemade Oatmeal Apple Cake: A Simple Family Favorite

When the weather starts to cool down, I always find myself baking more often. One year, I had a basket of apples from a local orchard sitting on my counter. Instead of making the usual pie, I decided to try something different and mixed the apples with oats. The result was a soft, moist cake that smelled like cinnamon and tasted like comfort in every bite. It quickly became a family favorite, especially on chilly afternoons with a hot cup of tea.

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first came across an oatmeal cake recipe in an old community cookbook, but it felt a little plain. So I added apples, extra cinnamon, and just a touch of nutmeg. It reminded me of the desserts my grandmother used to make—simple, filling, and always using what was already in the pantry.

Why Oatmeal Apple Cake

This cake is cozy, easy to make, and not overly sweet. It’s also a nice way to use up apples that might be sitting around. Unlike heavy frosted cakes, it feels lighter and can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast with coffee.

What is Oatmeal Apple Cake Made of?

It’s made with rolled oats, fresh apples, eggs, milk, butter, and warm spices like cinnamon. The oats give the cake texture, while the apples keep it moist and flavorful.

What to Have with Oatmeal Apple Cake

• A cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence
• Greek yogurt for a lighter option

Is Oatmeal Apple Cake Healthy?

It’s healthier than many cakes because it uses oats and fresh fruit. While it does contain butter and sugar, the balance of whole oats and apples makes it a more wholesome treat than most frosted cakes.

Kitchen Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater (for apples, if you want finer texture)

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Cake

1. Soak the oats – In a small bowl, combine oats and milk. Let them sit for about 15 minutes so they soften.
2. Mix the dry ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the soaked oats and stir well.
4. Add the apples – Fold in the chopped apples.
5. Mix everything – Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined. Don’t overmix.
6. Bake – Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve – Let the cake cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith if you want more contrast in flavor.
• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or raisins for extra texture.
• If you prefer a lighter cake, replace half the butter with applesauce.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, use certified gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q: Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Rolled oats give better texture, but quick oats will work in a pinch.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors settle.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely. Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Another Recipes Like This Recipe

• Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins
• Baked Apple Oatmeal Squares
• Spiced Pear Cake with Oats
• Zucchini Bread (Moist, Flavorful & Absolutely Irresistible!)
• Raspberry Bread Recipe (Super Soft & Berry-Packed!)
• Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: A Warm, Sweet Breakfast Favorite

Conclusion

Oatmeal Apple Cake is the kind of recipe that feels like home. It’s simple, comforting, and doesn’t need any fancy frosting or decoration. Whether you bake it for a family gathering or just as a treat for yourself, it’s a cake that always disappears quickly from the plate.

Servings:

9–12 squares

Cooking time:

35–40 minutes

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Sugars: 14g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 2g