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### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line a **9-inch round cake pan** or an equivalent-sized baking dish with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with oil.
#### **2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **apple sauce**, **honey** (or maple syrup), **eggs**, **almond milk**, **olive oil**, and **vanilla extract**. Make sure all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
#### **3. Add the Dry Ingredients:**
To the wet ingredients, add the **rolled oats**, **cocoa powder**, **baking powder**, **baking soda**, **cinnamon**, **nutmeg** (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until the batter is well mixed. The mixture will be slightly thicker than a traditional cake batter, but that’s perfectly fine due to the oats.
#### **4. Fold in the Apples:**
If you are using a **fresh apple**, grate it finely and fold it into the batter. The apple pieces will add extra moisture and flavor to the cake. If you’re using **apple sauce**, the applesauce will already contribute the moisture needed for the cake.
#### **5. Pour and Smooth:**
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
#### **6. Bake:**
Place the cake in the oven and bake for **30-35 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be slightly firm, and the cake should pull away from the sides of the pan.
#### **7. Cool and Serve:**
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures the cake maintains its shape and texture.
#### **8. Optional Toppings:**
Once the cake has cooled, you can top it with a light dusting of **powdered sugar**, a drizzle of **honey**, or even a dollop of **Greek yogurt** for extra creaminess. For a chocolatey twist, add a few shavings of **dark chocolate** on top!
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## **Why You’ll Love This Cake**
### **1. Wholesome and Nutritious**
Unlike traditional cakes that are loaded with refined sugar and flour, this oatmeal apple cocoa cake uses whole ingredients like oats, apples, and honey or maple syrup, making it a much healthier choice. It’s rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which support digestive health, boost energy, and help keep you satisfied for longer.
### **2. Naturally Sweetened**
Thanks to the apples and the natural sweetness of honey or maple syrup, you won’t need any processed sugar in this cake. The cocoa and cinnamon bring out deep, warm flavors that satisfy your sweet tooth without causing blood sugar spikes.
### **3. Easy to Make**
This cake is simple to prepare, and it doesn’t require any special equipment or complicated steps. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious, nutritious cake ready to serve for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a light dessert.
### **4. Versatile and Customizable**
Feel free to get creative with this cake! Add some **chopped nuts** for crunch, throw in a handful of **raisins** or **dried cranberries**, or swap the apple for **pears** for a different flavor profile. You can even make it dairy-free and vegan by using plant-based milk and egg substitutes.
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## **Conclusion**
The **Oatmeal Apple Cocoa Cake** is the perfect dessert to satisfy your cravings while providing your body with wholesome nutrients. With the fiber-packed oats, naturally sweet apples, and antioxidant-rich cocoa, this cake is as nourishing as it is delicious. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier dessert or snack without compromising on flavor.
Make this cake the next time you’re in the mood for a treat that’s both indulgent and good for you. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, enjoying it solo, or packing it as a snack for the week, this cake will be sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!
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