An Orange Oatmeal Nut Cake with Dark Chocolate and Almonds is a delightful and healthy dessert that combines the bright flavors of oranges with hearty oats and crunchy nuts. Perfect for any occasion, this cake offers a unique blend of sweetness and indulgence without compromising on nutrition. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this cake will quickly become a favorite for both everyday snacks and special celebrations.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the delicious Orange Oatmeal Nut Cake:
- 2 oranges: Freshly juiced and zested for a burst of citrus flavor that invigorates the cake.
- 1 cup (about 90g) oatmeal: Offers a wholesome, hearty base for the cake, adding fiber and texture.
- 1/2 cup (about 60g) nuts: Chopped (almonds, walnuts, or your choice) add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.
- 6 tablespoons stevia (or sweetener of choice): Sweetens the cake naturally without added calories.
- 1 tablespoon coconut flakes: Adds a hint of tropical flavor and extra moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides the necessary leavening for the cake to rise.
- Zest from 1 orange: Finely grated for an intense flavor boost that complements the juice.
- 5 tablespoons coconut oil (about 75ml): This healthy fat adds moisture and a subtle coconut flavor; melted for easy mixing.
- Oil: For greasing the pan to prevent sticking.
- 50g dark chocolate: Melted for a rich, decadent drizzle on top of the cake.
- Almond flakes: For topping, adding visual appeal and additional crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by juicing 2 oranges and zesting one of them to obtain finely grated orange peel. This will infuse the cake with a vibrant citrus flavor. Next, chop the nuts of your choice into small pieces and set them aside for later use in the mixture.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup oatmeal, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, 1 tablespoon coconut flakes, and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients, which will help achieve a consistent texture throughout the cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together orange juice, orange zest, 6 tablespoons stevia, and 5 tablespoons melted coconut oil. Whisk these ingredients until well combined, ensuring the sweetener dissolves completely in the liquid mixture for an even sweetness throughout the cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the bowl of wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; the goal is to achieve a moistened batter without lumps while keeping it airy and light.
Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a baking pan with oil to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking at the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking. The cake will be golden brown on top and should spring back slightly when touched.
Step 7: Add Dark Chocolate and Almond Flakes
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan. Melt 50g of dark chocolate in a microwave or double boiler and drizzle it over the top of the warm cake. Immediately sprinkle almond flakes on top while the chocolate is still soft, allowing them to stick.
Step 8: Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. The chocolate will harden slightly, creating a delicious topping that pairs wonderfully with the moist cake beneath.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt to enhance the indulgence.
- Perfect with Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and fulfilling snack.
- Fruity Addition: Serve with slices of fresh fruit for a refreshing complement to the rich cake.
Cooking Tips
- Nuts: You can choose your favorite nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans to personalize the flavor and texture of the cake.
- Orange Zest: Take care to zest only the bright orange part of the peel to avoid the bitter white pith that lies underneath.
- High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for an intense flavor; this will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
Nutritional Benefits
This Orange Oatmeal Nut Cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Oats: High in fiber, helping to keep you satiated for longer periods.
- Oranges: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, providing a healthy boost to the immune system.
- Nuts: A great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients that promote heart health.
- Coconut Oil: Adds healthy fats and enhances the overall flavor of the cake, contributing to moisture.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free, but confirm that the dark chocolate used is also dairy-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer preservation, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener instead of stevia?
Yes, you can substitute stevia with sugar, honey, or any other sweetener according to your preference, adjusting the quantity based on sweetness levels.
What type of nuts works best in this recipe?
You can use any nuts you prefer—almonds, walnuts, or pecans all work great. Feel free to mix and match for added flavors and textures.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
Can I add other flavors to the cake?
Absolutely! You can incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or even fold in chocolate chips for an extra treat.
How long does the cake remain fresh?
The cake maintains its best quality when stored properly. Refrigeration will keep it fresh for about 4 days, while freezing can extend that up to 2 months.
Conclusion
This Orange Oatmeal Nut Cake with Dark Chocolate and Almonds is a wonderful treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides nutritional benefits. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions—from casual afternoon snacks to elegant dessert offerings at dinner parties. Enjoy baking this wholesome cake and sharing it with friends and family, as it’s sure to be a hit!