If you’re looking for a wholesome, nutritious dessert or snack, this Oat and Kefir Cake with Carrots and Apples is a perfect choice. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and probiotics, it’s not only delicious but also good for your digestion and overall health. This cake is naturally sweetened with honey and made with wholesome ingredients like oats, kefir, and fresh fruit and vegetables, making it a great option for a healthy breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 120g oat flakes (1 ¼ cups)
- 200g kefir (¾ cup)
- 2 eggs
- 30g honey (2 tablespoons)
- 2 carrots, grated (about 150g)
- 2 apples, grated (about 200g)
- 20g poppy seeds (2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for greasing)
Optional: cinnamon, vanilla extract, or nuts for extra flavor.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oats
Start by grinding the 120g oat flakes into flour using a blender or food processor. This step ensures the oats blend smoothly into the batter, giving the cake a soft, cohesive texture.
Step 2: Combine the Kefir and Oats
In a mixing bowl, add 200g kefir to the ground oats. Stir well to combine and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb the moisture from the kefir. This step is key to ensuring the oats soften and integrate fully into the cake batter.
Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Once the oats have absorbed the kefir, add 2 eggs and 30g honey to the mixture. Stir until the ingredients are well combined. The honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, and the eggs help bind everything together.
Step 4: Grate the Vegetables and Fruits
Next, grate the 2 carrots and 2 apples. Make sure to grate them finely to help them blend smoothly into the cake batter. The carrots and apples not only add flavor but also provide moisture and nutrition to the cake. Add the grated carrots and apples to the oat mixture.
Step 5: Add Poppy Seeds
Stir in the 20g poppy seeds. These seeds add a subtle crunch and a boost of calcium and healthy fats, making your cake even more nutritious.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of oil to prevent the cake from sticking. You can also use parchment paper for easier removal after baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can enjoy it warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this cake as a healthy breakfast with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess and a boost of protein.
- For a light snack, enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the top before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Add-ins: To enhance the flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract. Chopped nuts or raisins can also add texture and extra nutrition.
- Grating: Make sure the carrots and apples are grated finely so they blend seamlessly with the oats and don’t create chunks in the cake.
- Oil Substitute: For a lighter version, you can use applesauce instead of oil for greasing the baking dish.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oats and Kefir: These ingredients are rich in fiber and probiotics, which support digestion and heart health.
- Carrots and Apples: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, they help boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.
- Poppy Seeds: A great source of calcium, healthy fats, and minerals like zinc and iron.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that provides antioxidants and can help reduce the need for refined sugar.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This cake is suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a plant-based kefir or yogurt instead.
- No Added Sugar: This recipe uses honey as a natural sweetener, eliminating the need for refined sugar.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fats: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices and reheat them as needed. This way, you can enjoy your cake anytime!
Conclusion
This Oat and Kefir Cake with Carrots and Apples is a delightful, healthy treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With its combination of oats, kefir, fresh fruits, and vegetables, it offers a nutritious and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, with a drizzle of honey or as-is, this cake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!