Apple Oats Cake

Reasons To Love This Apple Oats Cake 

The apple oats cake is great for babies, toddlers, and families because it is a wholesome and nutritious option that is easy to prepare and customize. It is made with simple, natural ingredients like oats, apples, and eggs, which provide essential nutrients such as fibre, protein, and vitamins. 

The soft texture makes it easy for babies and toddlers to chew, and it can be served in small, manageable pieces. For families, it's a versatile breakfast or snack, offering a healthy, quick solution that everyone can enjoy, with plenty of natural sweetness.

Apple Oats Cake Recipe

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup oats
• 1/3 cup finely diced apple
• 1/4 cup applesauce
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup milk

Instructions 

1. In a microwave-safe bowl or dish, combine the oats, diced apple, applesauce, egg, baking powder, cinnamon, and milk. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is evenly mixed.

2. Place the bowl or dish in the microwave and cook it on high for 2 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, as microwaves can vary in power. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture has firmed up slightly and the edges pull away from the sides of the bowl. Be careful not to overcook it, as it should retain a soft and moist texture suitable for babies and toddlers.

3. Allow the cake to cool for a minute or two before serving. You can cut it into small, manageable pieces or let your little one enjoy it directly from the bowl with a spoon. It can be enjoyed plain or topped with a small dollop of yoghurt for added creaminess.

4. This apple oats cake is particularly suited to mornings, making it an ideal breakfast. However, it is equally enjoyable as a mid-morning or afternoon snack, providing wholesome nourishment and energy for the day. 

Tips For Success

Here are some tips for ensuring your apple oats cake turns out perfectly every time:

Use finely diced apples: Chop the apples into very small pieces to ensure they soften nicely during cooking and blend well with the cake’s texture.

Adjust cooking time: Microwaves vary, so check the cake after 2 minutes. If it still looks too wet, cook in 15-second intervals until it’s just firm but still soft. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

Grease the dish lightly: If you plan to remove the cake from the dish, lightly grease it with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.

Let it cool: Allow the cake to cool for a minute or two before serving. This helps it set fully and ensures it’s not too hot for your little one.

Make it dairy-free: Substitute milk with a plant-based option like almond or oat milk if needed.

Customise the sweetness: If serving toddlers or older children, you can add a tiny drizzle of honey or maple syrup after cooking, but avoid this for babies under 12 months.

Add a topping: For extra flavour, serve with a dollop of plain yoghurt or a sprinkle of crushed nuts (if age-appropriate).

Recipe Substitutions and Additions 

If you prefer, you can substitute the applesauce with mashed banana or pear puree for a different flavour profile. Instead of cow's milk, you can use plant-based milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk to make the recipe dairy-free. If your child enjoys a slightly nuttier flavour, you could add a teaspoon of almond or peanut butter to the mixture, ensuring the nut butter is smooth and safe for their age.

For added texture and nutrition, try stirring in a small handful of finely grated carrot or courgette. If you’d like to include more variety, a few raisins or finely chopped dried apricots can be added for natural sweetness (suitable for older toddlers). To boost the nutritional value, you might also mix in a teaspoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds.

For a slightly different spice profile, you can replace the cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg or ginger, or use a combination of all three. If you want the cake to be a little richer, a splash of vanilla extract can be added to the batter.

Serving Suggestions 

For babies and toddlers, you can serve the apple oats cake with a small dollop of plain yoghurt. Drizzle it with a bit of pear puree, banana, or extra apple puree for added flavour. Cutting the cake into bite-sized or finger-friendly portions will make it easier for little ones to handle. A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also add a lovely aroma and taste.

For adults, consider drizzling the cake with a touch of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness, though avoid this for children under one. Spreading a thin layer of almond or peanut butter can provide extra protein, while topping it with slices of banana, strawberries, or blueberries adds a vibrant touch. A small spoonful of crème fraîche or mascarpone works beautifully for a richer option.

This cake also pairs well with a warm cup of tea or milk, making it a cosy breakfast or snack. You could serve it alongside a handful of nuts or seeds for added texture and balance, suitable for older children or adults. For a creative twist, use it as a base for a trifle-style dessert, layering it with yoghurt and fruits in a small glass.

How to Store

To store the apple oat cake, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can store it at room temperature for up to one day, but if you'd like to keep it fresh for longer, it's best to refrigerate it. In the fridge, it should stay good for up to 3 days.

If you'd like to store it for an even longer period, you can freeze the cake. Simply cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in cling film or place them in a freezer-safe bag . It can be frozen for up to one month. When you're ready to serve it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or warm it in the microwave for a quick snack.

Equipment 

• Baking dish
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Nutrition 

Suitable for 9 months +

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 160–200 (depends on milk and applesauce)

• Protein: 5–6g (from egg, oats, and milk)

• Healthy Fats: 3–5g (from egg and milk)

• Carbohydrates: 25–30g (from oats, apples, and applesauce)

• Fiber: 3–4g (from oats and apple)

• Vitamin C: from fresh apples and applesauce

• Calcium: from milk

• Iron: from oats and egg yolk

• Omega-3s: trace amounts from egg (if using omega-3 enriched)

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.