Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine with Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Add Oats: Stir in the soaked oats, along with any remaining water from soaking, until the mixture is smooth.
Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Topping: While the cake is baking, prepare the topping by combining the shredded coconut, chopped nuts (if using), brown sugar, melted butter, and milk in a small bowl.
Add the Topping: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the topping mixture evenly over the hot cake. Return the cake to the oven for an additional 10 minutes to allow the topping to melt and become golden.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This oatmeal cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Storing the Cake: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. The cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake again, reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds, or place it in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore its moisture.
Variants:
Coconut-Free Version: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit it from the topping. Consider adding extra chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for texture instead.
Vegan Oatmeal Cake: For a plant-based version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg), and use dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk.
Spiced Oatmeal Cake: For a spicier version, add 1/2 tsp of ground ginger or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warming, aromatic flavor.
Apple Oatmeal Cake: Add 1 cup of chopped apples to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. The apples will provide moisture and a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the cake.
FAQ:
Q1: Can I make this oatmeal cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for a few days. It actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together.
Q2: Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A2: While you can use instant oats in a pinch, old-fashioned rolled oats give the cake a better texture and provide a more substantial bite. Instant oats may result in a softer cake.
Q3: Can I make the cake gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free if needed.
Q4: Is it okay to use a different nut in the topping?
A4: Yes, feel free to swap the walnuts or pecans with your favorite nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or even pistachios.
Q5: Can I skip the topping?
A5: While the topping adds a delicious crunch and extra flavor, you can certainly skip it if you prefer a simpler version of the cake. The cake itself is flavorful and moist without the topping.
Conclusion:
Oatmeal cake is a perfect dessert for any season, and its simple, wholesome ingredients make it a delightful choice for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting afternoon treat or as part of a festive gathering, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Try this recipe today and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of warm, flavorful nostalgia!
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