Have you ever wanted a cake that feels healthy but still tastes like dessert? That’s what I thought when I made oatmeal carrot cake. It’s soft, sweet, and just the right kind of cozy.
I like recipes that mix comfort with a little goodness. The oats give it heartiness, and the carrots make it moist and rich. It’s simple, but it feels so special.
And here’s what I love most. Oatmeal carrot cake works for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Stick around, because I’ll share why this cake is now one of my favorites to bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome & Nutritious: Made with whole oats, fresh carrots, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup and applesauce.
- Moist & Flavorful: The combination of orange juice, cinnamon, and vanilla gives this cake an incredibly rich taste.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Option: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, snacking, or as a dessert topped with healthy cream cheese frosting.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Stays fresh for days and freezes well.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 9×9-inch baking pan (or loaf pan)
- Parchment paper
- Grater (for shredding carrots)
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this nutritious cake:
Dry Ingredients:
- 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, divided
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup pulp-free orange juice
- ¾ cup applesauce
- ¾ cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 1 ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¾ cup raisins
- Healthy cream cheese frosting (optional)
- Chopped walnuts for topping (optional)
Variations for Oatmeal Carrot Cake
- Make it Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a dairy-free frosting.
- Add More Texture: Stir in shredded coconut or chopped pecans.
- Boost the Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for an extra nutritious kick.
- Lower Sugar Option: Reduce the maple syrup and replace with additional applesauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, pulse 2 cups of rolled oats into a fine flour. In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, remaining 2 cups whole oats, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together orange juice, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine & Add Carrots
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the shredded carrots and raisins.
4. Bake the Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Frost
Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading on healthy cream cheese frosting. Top with chopped walnuts if desired.
How to Serve Oatmeal Carrot Cake
This cake is so versatile! Enjoy it:
- For Breakfast: Serve with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
- As a Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dairy-free coconut ice cream.
- With Coffee or Tea: A perfect afternoon treat with your favorite warm beverage.
- For Meal Prep: Slice into squares for an easy grab-and-go snack.
Storing & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Sugar | 12g |
Conclusion
This Oatmeal Carrot Cake is the perfect combination of health and indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something sweet yet nutritious, this cake will become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!
Oatmeal Carrot Cake
Course: Uncategorized15
minutes30
minutes220
kcalIngredients
4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, divided
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup orange juice
¾ cup applesauce
¾ cup maple syrup
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cup shredded carrots
¾ cup raisins
Healthy cream cheese frosting (optional)
Chopped walnuts for topping (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Blend 2 cups of oats into oat flour.
- In a bowl, whisk oat flour, remaining oats, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk orange juice, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in shredded carrots and raisins.
- Pour batter into the baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Let cool before spreading with healthy cream cheese frosting.
- Slice and serve. Enjoy!
Oatmeal Carrot Cake FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide the best texture.
Can I make this cake nut-free?
Absolutely! Just omit the walnuts or any other nuts.
Can I make muffins instead?
Yes! Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
What’s the best frosting for this cake?
A healthy cream cheese frosting made with Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese works great.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes! Honey is a great substitute for maple syrup.