Oatmeal Cake: A Nostalgic and Comforting Dessert

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the heartiness of oats with the sweetness of a classic cake, this Oatmeal Cake is the perfect choice. With a moist and flavorful base topped with a rich coconut-pecan streusel, this cake is a nostalgic treat that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this cake is both easy to make and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1½ cups hot milk
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• ½ cup finely chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.

2. Soak the Oats

In a medium bowl, combine the hot milk and old-fashioned oats. Stir to mix and let the oats soak while you prepare the other ingredients. This step softens the oats, making them blend seamlessly into the cake batter.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This mixture provides the structure and flavor foundation for the cake.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes.

5. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

6. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add half of the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture. Then, add the soaked oats (including any remaining liquid) and mix until just combined. Finally, add the remaining flour mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

7. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Prepare the Streusel Topping

While the cake is baking, prepare the streusel topping. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and milk, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the coconut flakes and chopped pecans. This topping adds a rich, crunchy layer that complements the moist cake perfectly.

9. Top the Cake

Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately spread the streusel topping evenly over the cake. The warmth of the cake will help the topping to set beautifully. Let the cake stand for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Your Oatmeal Cake is now ready to enjoy! Serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Serving Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
• Calories: 380 kcal per slice
• Servings: 12-16 servings

Tips for the Best Oatmeal Cake

• Don’t Skip the Soak: Soaking the oats in hot milk softens them, ensuring they blend smoothly into the cake batter, resulting in a moist and tender crumb.
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to add a handful of raisins or even some chocolate chips to the streusel topping for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make Ahead: This cake stores well and can be made a day in advance. Just cover and store at room temperature, and it will still be delicious the next day.

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Cake is a delightful blend of hearty oats, warm spices, and a decadent coconut-pecan topping. It’s a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon. With its rich flavor and easy preparation, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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