The Story Behind This Vibrant Treat

Imagine a cake that captures the essence of a sunny morning – bright, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. This oatcake is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple, nutritious ingredients that come together to create something truly magical.

Ingredients (US and Metric Measurements)

• 150g (1 1/2 cups) rolled oats
• 2 medium oranges (zest and juice)
• 3 large eggs
• 70g (5 tablespoons) butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 100g (3/4 cup) all-purpose flour
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla powder
• 50g (1/3 cup) prunes, chopped
• 50g (1/2 cup) walnuts, chopped
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Desiccated coconut for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Zest and juice the oranges
   • Melt butter
   • Chop prunes and walnuts
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar
   • Add salt, cinnamon, cardamom, baking powder
   • Mix thoroughly
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk eggs
   • Add melted butter
   • Incorporate orange zest and juice
   • Add vanilla powder
4. Create the Batter:
   • Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients
   • Fold gently
   • Add chopped prunes and walnuts
   • Mix until just combined
5. Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
   • Pour batter into a lined loaf pan
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes
   • Check with a toothpick for doneness
6. Finish:
   • Cool completely
   • Dust with powdered sugar
   • Sprinkle desiccated coconut

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 slices

Pro Baking Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overmix the batter
• Use room temperature eggs
• Toast walnuts for enhanced flavor
• Zest oranges before juicing

Delicious Variations

• Replace prunes with dried cranberries
• Use almonds instead of walnuts
• Add dark chocolate chips
• Try different spice combinations
• Make it gluten-free with alternative flour

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this vegan? A: Use flax eggs and plant-based butter

Q: How to store the oatcake? A: Room temperature, covered, for 3-4 days

Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, up to 1 month

Q: What if I don’t have vanilla powder? A: Use vanilla extract

Q: Can I reduce the sugar? A: Yes, but it may affect texture

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container
• Best consumed within 3-4 days
• Can be frozen for longer storage
• Tastes even better the next day

A cake that brings sunshine to your table – wholesome, flavorful, and absolutely delightful!