If you’re looking for a wholesome baked treat without refined sugar or flour, this Oatmeal, Apple and Carrot Cake is a delicious option. It gets its natural sweetness from ripe banana and apple, while grated carrots add moisture and texture. The oats help create a soft, satisfying cake that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 large apple, grated
- 1 cup finely grated carrots
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or almonds, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a loaf pan or small baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Oats
For a finer, cake-like texture, place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor and pulse until they resemble a coarse flour.
You can also leave them whole for a more rustic, hearty texture.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
Add the eggs, yogurt, vanilla, and grated apple. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the Carrots and Dry Ingredients
Stir in the grated carrots.
Add the ground oats, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg if using.
Mix gently until everything is combined. Fold in the chopped nuts if desired.
Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes so the oats can absorb some of the moisture.
5. Bake
Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for approximately 30–40 minutes, depending on the size and depth of your pan.
The top should be lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Allow it to cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest natural flavor.
- Choose a naturally sweet apple such as Gala or Fuji.
- Squeeze out a little excess liquid from the grated apple if it is extremely juicy.
- Add raisins, walnuts, pecans, or unsweetened coconut for extra texture.
- If you want the recipe completely free from added sweeteners, don’t add honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners.
A Note About “No Sugar”
This recipe contains no added sugar, but it isn’t sugar-free. Bananas, apples, carrots, and yogurt naturally contain carbohydrates and sugars. It’s a useful distinction if you’re preparing the recipe for someone who needs to strictly limit sugar or carbohydrates.
Final Thoughts
This Oatmeal, Apple and Carrot Cake is a simple way to make a naturally sweet baked treat without traditional flour or added sugar. The combination of ripe banana, juicy apple, and carrots keeps the cake moist, while oats provide a hearty texture and satisfying flavor.