This Slow Cooker Banana Bread Oatmeal Cake combines the comforting flavors of banana bread and oatmeal in a convenient slow-cooker recipe. It’s a warm, hearty, and slightly sweet breakfast or dessert option, perfect for starting your day or serving as a cozy treat.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (any type)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Grease the slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the oats, milk, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased slow cooker and spread evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the oatmeal is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once cooked, remove from the slow cooker and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 12g
Health Benefits of Banana Bread Oatmeal Cake
Banana Bread Oatmeal Cake provides a combination of nutritious ingredients that can be a great addition to your diet. The bananas contribute potassium, which is essential for heart health, while oats offer fiber that aids digestion. The presence of applesauce helps to keep the cake moist while also reducing the need for excessive sugar. With the inclusion of walnuts, you add heart-healthy fats that support brain function and overall health. This cake can be a healthy and filling choice to begin the day or enjoy as a snack.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
The slow cooker is a fantastic tool for making meals like this banana bread oatmeal cake because it allows the ingredients to blend together slowly, resulting in a rich, moist texture. Slow cooking also helps preserve the nutrients in the ingredients, especially when compared to other cooking methods that may cause nutrient loss. Additionally, the slow cooker makes the recipe incredibly easy by requiring minimal preparation and hands-off cooking, which can be convenient for busy mornings or meal prepping.
Versatility in Flavors
One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. While the base of banana bread oatmeal cake stays the same, you can adjust the flavor profile to suit your preferences. You can incorporate different spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a seasonal twist. If you’re a fan of chocolate, consider adding cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a dessert-like feel. You could also add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or even swap the walnuts for almonds or pecans for a new texture and flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep
The slow cooker banana bread oatmeal cake is a fantastic choice for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for several days. Because it is rich in fiber and nutrients, it can keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. Simply slice the cake into portions, refrigerate, and grab a slice whenever you need a quick breakfast or snack.
Making It Gluten-Free
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adjusted to be gluten-free. Simply replace the rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. It’s a simple substitution that still results in a delicious, hearty cake that everyone can enjoy.
Adding Protein to Your Cake
To further enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the batter. This is an easy way to boost the protein content, especially if you’re looking for a more balanced meal. Just be mindful of how much protein powder you add, as too much may alter the texture of the cake. A scoop of protein powder can give you the energy you need to power through your day.
Storing and Reheating the Cake
This cake stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’ve made a large batch, you can slice it into individual servings, wrap them tightly, and freeze for longer storage. When you’re ready to eat, simply microwave a slice for about 30-45 seconds or let it thaw at room temperature. The texture will remain moist and delicious, making it perfect for on-the-go breakfasts.
Serving Suggestions
While the cake is delicious on its own, you can also serve it with a variety of toppings for an extra boost of flavor. Try adding a dollop of yogurt on top for a creamy contrast. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries would pair wonderfully with the cake’s flavors. For a little indulgence, drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top or sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon or sugar.
Customizing the Sweetness Level
Not everyone likes their breakfast or cake overly sweet, and that’s another advantage of this recipe. You can easily adjust the level of sweetness by decreasing the amount of brown sugar or applesauce in the batter. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can add more sugar or include ingredients like honey or maple syrup. By adjusting the sugar levels, you can make the cake suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
The Importance of Bananas in the Recipe
Bananas are a key ingredient in this recipe, and they bring several benefits beyond just sweetness. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and overall heart function. They also provide vitamins like vitamin C and B6, which support immune function and energy metabolism. Bananas also act as a natural binder, helping to keep the cake moist and tender.
Oats as a Key Ingredient
Oats are another nutritional powerhouse in this recipe. They are a great source of soluble fiber, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar. The fiber content in oats also promotes digestive health and helps you feel full longer, making it a perfect addition to a breakfast or snack. Oats are also rich in antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and support overall wellness.
How to Make the Cake Even More Moist
If you’re looking to make the banana bread oatmeal cake even more moist, consider adding a bit more applesauce or a spoonful of yogurt. Both of these ingredients contribute to the texture, making the cake extra soft and tender. You could also add an extra mashed banana for even more moisture and banana flavor.
Using Applesauce in the Recipe
Applesauce serves two purposes in this recipe: it helps to add moisture without the need for additional oil or butter, and it contributes to the natural sweetness of the cake. It’s a great alternative to fattening ingredients and works well in baked goods. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can opt for unsweetened applesauce or even add a splash of lemon juice to balance out the sweetness.
Why Cinnamon Works So Well in the Cake
Cinnamon is one of the spices that pairs beautifully with the flavors of bananas and oats. It provides warmth and depth to the flavor profile, giving the cake a comforting aroma and taste. In addition to its flavor, cinnamon has been shown to have several health benefits, including helping to regulate blood sugar levels and providing anti-inflammatory properties.
The Role of Eggs in the Recipe
Eggs are essential in this recipe for binding the ingredients together and providing structure to the cake. They also add richness and moisture, helping the cake rise and hold together while cooking in the slow cooker. Eggs are also a great source of protein, which can help build and repair muscle and keep you feeling satisfied.
Slow Cooker vs. Oven Baking
While you can certainly bake banana bread oatmeal cake in the oven, using a slow cooker offers several advantages. The slow cooker produces a more moist and tender texture because the heat is distributed gently and evenly. It also eliminates the need to preheat an oven, making the process more convenient. Plus, slow cookers allow for hands-off cooking, so you can focus on other tasks while your cake cooks to perfection.
Why You Should Avoid Overmixing the Batter
When making banana bread oatmeal cake, it’s important not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake due to the development of gluten. Instead, stir the ingredients together just until they are combined. This will ensure a light and fluffy texture, making the cake more enjoyable to eat.
Adjusting for Different Size Slow Cookers
Slow cookers come in different sizes, so it’s important to adjust the cooking time and the quantity of ingredients based on your specific slow cooker. A larger slow cooker will cook the cake more quickly, while a smaller one might require a longer cook time. If you’re unsure about the cooking time, it’s always best to check the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready to be served.
Making the Cake Vegan
For those who follow a vegan diet, it’s easy to make this recipe vegan-friendly. You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg substitute. Plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk. You can also swap the applesauce for mashed avocado for an extra boost of healthy fats.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Banana Bread Oatmeal Cake is not only a delicious and comforting treat but also a versatile and healthy option that can be adapted to various dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this cake offers a balance of flavors and nutrients that make it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. With the ease of slow cooking, the flexibility of ingredients, and the ability to store and reheat, this recipe is both practical and satisfying.