Prepare the Ingredients:
Juice the 2 oranges and zest 1 of them to get finely grated orange peel.
Chop the nuts finely and set them aside.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, 1 tablespoon coconut flakes, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the orange juice, orange zest, 6 tablespoons of stevia, and 5 tablespoons of melted coconut oil. Stir until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry:
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until evenly combined.
Prepare the Pan and Bake:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
Grease a baking pan with oil and pour the mixture into the pan.
Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Add Dark Chocolate and Almond Flakes:
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Melt 50g of dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the cake.
Sprinkle almond flakes over the chocolate.
Serve:
Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for extra indulgence.
Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack or dessert.
Cooking Tips:
Nuts: Feel free to use your favorite nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for different flavors and textures.
Orange Zest: Make sure to only zest the outer peel to avoid the bitter white pith.
Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for a rich flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
Oats: Rich in fiber, helping to keep you full longer.
Oranges: Provide a burst of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Nuts: A great source of healthy fats and protein.
Coconut Oil: Adds healthy fats and enhances the flavor of the cake.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: Yes.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free, but ensure the dark chocolate is dairy-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
Calories: ~220 kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Deliciously Healthy: Packed with oats, nuts, and oranges, this cake is both nutritious and flavorful.
Rich Chocolate Finish: The dark chocolate and almond topping make it extra special.
Perfect for Sharing: It’s a great dessert or snack to share with family and friends.
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh oranges, this cake is easy to prepare.
Conclusion
This Orange Oatmeal Nut Cake with Dark Chocolate is a delightful balance of healthy and indulgent. The combination of zesty orange, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts makes this cake a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast, it’s a delicious way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into a sweet treat. The added almond flakes give the cake a lovely texture that complements the citrusy and chocolatey flavors. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use other sweeteners instead of stevia?
Yes, you can use honey, maple syrup, or sugar in place of stevia.
What other nuts can I use?
You can substitute with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.
Can I use quick oats instead of whole oats?
Yes, quick oats will work, though the texture may be slightly different.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use a vegan dark chocolate and ensure your sweetener is vegan-friendly.
Can I use another oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, but coconut oil adds a great flavor.
What type of oranges work best?
Navel oranges or Valencia oranges work well for their juiciness and flavor.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, you can sprinkle shredded coconut or extra chopped nuts on top for added texture.
How can I store this cake?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I melt the chocolate in the microwave?
Yes, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
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