Easy Oatmeal Apple Cake

This apple oatmeal cake is not only easy to make, but it's also full of wholesome ingredients. Whether you're looking for a healthier, sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this cake will definitely fit the bill.

Love apple desserts? Try my Healthy Apple Chips, my Apple and Strawberry Crumble, or my Apple Muffins with Streusel Topping.

What does this oatmeal apple cake taste like?

There is no all purpose flour in this cake, so it doesn't have the same crumb or texture as a normal cake. It tastes like oatmeal, but in a cake form! And it has a wonderful, crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.

Why you'll love this recipe

• Wholesome. This easy apple oatmeal cake is made with oats and fresh apples (no flour).
• Delicious. Thanks to the fresh apples, every bite is super soft, moist, and flavorful. And it tastes just like oatmeal!
• Crunchy topping. The cinnamon sugar topping really kicks the cake up a notch!
• Great any time of day. It makes a wonderful oat breakfast cake, but you could definitely enjoy it as a snack throughout the day, too.

What you need to make this cake

Ingredients for oatmeal apple cake

• Apples - I use fresh, sweet apples, but you could use tart ones if you prefer.
• Old fashioned oats - I make my own oat flour for this cake and add extra old fashioned oats for texture. You could also buy store-bought oat flour.
• Sugar - I use a combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar. I love the caramel flavor of brown sugar and I think it really complements the apples and oats beautifully.
• Vanilla - I use pure vanilla extract.
• Buttermilk - It really adds richness to the cake. You can also use sour milk if you don't have buttermilk on hand. Just add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to a cup and then fill it with milk. Give it a stir and let it sit for a few minutes.                       
• Eggs - You'll need 2 medium eggs.
• Cinnamon - It really brings out the natural sweetness of the apples and give a cozy, apple pie flavor.
• Baking soda and baking powder - Both help the cake rise for a soft, moist texture.                                            
• Oil - I use light vegetable oil, instead of butter.                                                       
• Salt - A little bit enhances all the flavors.

Ingredients for the cinnamon sugar topping

• Sugar - I use regular granulated sugar for this topping.
• Butter - I always use unsalted butter, but you could use salted butter, too.
• Cinnamon - It truly elevates each and every bite!

See the recipe card at the end of the post for quantities.

How to make this oatmeal cake with fresh apples

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all the dry ingredients.

2. In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients.

3. Whisk the wet and dry ingredients together.

4. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small, even pieces.

5. Add the chopped apples and fold everything with a silicone spatula until well-combined.

6.Pour the batter into the springform pan.

7. Put the cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir everything until combined.

8. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping all over the top of the cake. Then bake!

Recipe notes

Storage tips & freezing instructions

You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered in an air-tight container, or in the fridge for up to about 5 days.

This cake freezes well, too! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. You can keep it in the freezer for up to about 3 months. Let it thaw at in the refrigerator overnight or warm it slightly in the microwave.

Variations 

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it:

• Make it crunchier. Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Add dried fruit. Raisins and dried cranberries would be delicious with this cake.
• Make it spicy. If you want a spicier cake, add some ground ginger, a pinch of cardamom or allspice.

Frequently asked questions