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Flourless Banana Oatmeal Cake (Gluten-Free)

Flourless Banana Oatmeal Cake: A Healthy and Wholesome Treat

Introduction
Looking for a guilt-free treat that’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and delicious? This Flourless Banana Oatmeal Cake is the perfect answer! Packed with natural sweetness from ripe bananas, the goodness of oats, and the crunch of walnuts, this cake is a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.


Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe banana, mashed: Provides natural sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 egg: Acts as a binder and adds protein.
  • 50 ml milk: Use dairy or plant-based milk according to your preference.

Dry Ingredients:

  • 70 g oatmeal: Use gluten-free oats if necessary, ground into a flour-like consistency.
  • 5 g baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 g salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • 2 g cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.

Add-Ins:

  • 20 g walnuts, chopped: For a nutty crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oats

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Line a small baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with oil or butter.
  3. Place the oats in a blender or food processor and pulse until they reach a flour-like consistency. This step ensures a smoother texture for the cake.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana with a fork until smooth.
  2. Add the egg and milk to the mashed banana. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, combine the ground oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  2. Stir the mixture to evenly distribute the baking powder and cinnamon.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
  2. Stir gently until the mixture is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Add Walnuts

  1. Fold in the chopped walnuts, reserving a few pieces to sprinkle on top for garnish if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Sprinkle the reserved walnuts on top for a decorative touch.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.
  2. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
  3. Serve as is, or enhance the flavor with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.

Serving Suggestions

  • For Breakfast: Pair a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a nutritious start to the day.
  • As a Snack: Enjoy a piece on its own or with a handful of fresh berries.
  • For Dessert: Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of indulgence.
See also  Simple Ice Cream Recipe: Only 4 Ingredients, Very Creamy, Excellent Yields

Cooking Tips

  1. Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be.
  2. Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
  3. Customize Add-Ins: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even chocolate chips to suit your taste.
  4. Check for Doneness: Test the cake with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, not wet batter.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, potassium, and dietary fiber.
  • Oats: A good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and iron.
  • Walnuts: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Cinnamon: Adds flavor and potential antioxidant benefits.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based option.
  • Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened naturally by the banana, with no added sugar.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats are not ideal for this recipe unless processed into a fine flour-like consistency. Rolled oats are recommended for a smoother texture.

What can I substitute for walnuts?

You can use pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, or omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free option.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Use plant-based milk for a fully vegan version.

Why is my cake dense?

Overmixing the batter or using an underripe banana can lead to a dense texture. Be gentle with mixing and ensure your banana is ripe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Make a batch, slice it, and store the portions for a quick and healthy grab-and-go snack.


Conclusion
This Flourless Banana Oatmeal Cake is a simple, wholesome, and versatile recipe that fits a variety of dietary needs. With its naturally sweet flavor, tender crumb, and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods. Give it a try—you won’t miss the flour! 🍌✨