Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Cake
If you’re looking for a simple, comforting dessert that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, this Oatmeal Cake Recipe is the perfect choice! Made with rolled oats, brown sugar, and a delicious coconut-almond topping, this cake has a soft, moist texture and a delightful caramelized crunch on top.
This old-fashioned oatmeal cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. The rich cinnamon and nutmeg flavors combined with the slightly chewy texture of oats make this cake a family favorite. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow oatmeal cake recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why This Oatmeal Cake Recipe Stands Out
✅ Moist and Soft Texture – The soaked oats make the cake extra tender and flavorful.
✅ Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy!
✅ Rich and Buttery Topping – The coconut-almond caramelized topping adds a crunchy and sweet layer.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients for Oatmeal Cake Recipe

Cake Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 ¼ cups boiling water
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Coconut-Almond Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- ¾ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup chopped almonds (or pecans/walnuts for variation)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Oatmeal Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oats

- In a mixing bowl, pour boiling water over the rolled oats.
- Stir and let the oats sit for 15 minutes to soften and absorb the liquid.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Stir in the softened oats and combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake

- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly while preparing the topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut-Almond Topping

- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and mix in brown sugar and heavy cream.
- Stir in the shredded coconut and chopped almonds.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Broil the Cake with the Topping

- Spread the coconut-almond topping evenly over the warm cake.
- Place the cake under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the topping becomes golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Oatmeal Cake

✔ Enjoy Warm or Cold – This cake tastes amazing at room temperature or slightly warm.
✔ Pair with Coffee or Tea – A hot beverage complements the cozy flavors perfectly.
✔ Serve with Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream enhances the flavor.
✔ Drizzle with Caramel – A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness.
Tips for the Best Oatmeal Cake
🔥 Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh oats, eggs, and butter give the best flavor and texture.
🔥 Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and moist.
🔥 Watch While Broiling – The coconut-almond topping can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it.
🔥 Let the Cake Rest Before Serving – This helps the flavors develop and makes slicing easier.
Oatmeal Cake Variations
🥕 Carrot Oatmeal Cake – Add ½ cup shredded carrots for a healthier twist.
🍎 Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cake – Mix in ½ cup grated apple for extra sweetness.
🍫 Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cake – Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
🌰 Nut-Free Option – Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or skip nuts entirely.
How to Store Oatmeal Cake
✔ Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
✔ Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Oatmeal Cake vs. Traditional Cakes
Feature | Oatmeal Cake | Traditional Cake |
---|---|---|
Texture | Moist and slightly chewy | Light and fluffy |
Sweetness | Naturally sweet with brown sugar | Usually sweeter with white sugar |
Topping | Caramelized coconut-almond | Frosting or glaze |
Health Factor | Oats add fiber and nutrients | Higher in refined flour and sugar |
This cake is a healthier, fiber-rich alternative to traditional cakes while still being indulgent and delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
🔹 Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free oats and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
🔹 Can I make this cake vegan?
Absolutely! Replace eggs with flax eggs, use vegan butter, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream.
🔹 What type of oats should I use?
Use rolled oats, not quick oats or steel-cut oats, as they absorb liquid better.
🔹 Can I skip the coconut-almond topping?
Yes! The cake is delicious on its own, but you can use a brown sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting instead.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Oatmeal Cake Recipe!
This Oatmeal Cake Recipe is a timeless dessert that combines the richness of brown sugar and butter with the wholesome goodness of oats. It’s easy to make, incredibly moist, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a weekend treat, or just because, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of this warm, comforting, and absolutely delicious oatmeal cake! 🍰🌾