Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
Prepare fruits:
Rinse dried cranberries and raisins in hot water to remove excess sugar and soften them, then drain well.
Peel and dice the apples. In a large bowl, mash the banana.
Make the cake batter:
To the mashed banana, add the rolled oats, diced apples, soaked cranberries and raisins. Stir to combine well.
Crack the eggs into the bowl, add the baking powder and sprinkle with cinnamon if using. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Chop the walnuts into large pieces and fold them into the dough to distribute them evenly.
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Chill and serve:
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
If desired, serve each slice topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh berries for added freshness and flavor.
Serving suggestions
Breakfast Treat: Serve a slice of this apple oatmeal cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a hearty and nutritious breakfast.
Dessert Option: Top with a scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a healthier dessert option.
Snack time: Enjoy a serving with a cup of green tea or your favorite coffee as a mid-afternoon snack that won’t give you a sugar crash.
Special occasions: Present it at brunch or family events; it is an excellent addition to a buffet or shared meal.
Additional toppings: Top with nut butter for extra protein, sprinkle with chia seeds for added fiber, or garnish with sliced almonds for extra crunch.
Pack and Go: This cake is sturdy and moist, making it ideal for packing in lunch boxes for school or work, providing a satisfying treat.
Nutritional benefits
High in fiber: Both oats and apples are rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels.
Rich in vitamins: Apples contain a good amount of vitamin C, essential for a healthy immune system, while bananas offer potassium, which is vital for heart health and proper muscle function.
Healthy fats: Nuts like almonds and walnuts add omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain health and can help reduce inflammation.
Antioxidant properties: Cinnamon and blueberries are high in antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Protein Source: Eggs provide high-quality protein that is essential for muscle repair and growth.
No added sugars: The use of natural fruits and optional date syrup as sweeteners reduces the overall glycemic index, making it
