Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes Recipe : Deliciously Wholesome:

Hello, Pure Plate family! Today, we’re diving into the realm of wholesome goodness with a recipe that’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a celebration of nutritious ingredients. Our Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes are a perfect blend of hearty oats, almond flour, and the delightful aroma of anise seeds, all crowned with the sweetness of apples. The finishing touch? A heavenly drizzle of homemade caramel sauce that elevates these mini cakes to pure perfection.

Ingredients:

– 2.5 cups oat flour

– ½ cup almond flour

– 2.5 tsp baking powder

– ½ tsp baking soda

– 1.5 tsp anise seeds

– ½ tsp Himalayan sea salt

– 1 cup dates

– 1 banana

– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (ACV)

– ¾ cup almond milk

– 1 tsp vanilla extract

– ¼ cup avocado oil

– 1 egg

– 2 apples (one diced, one peeled and sliced lengthwise)

– Caramel sauce (recipe)

Know Your Ingredients

Before you embark on the delightful journey of creating our Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes, let’s take a moment to explore the star players in this wholesome recipe. Each ingredient brings its unique flavour and nutritional benefits, contributing to a treat that not only tastes amazing but also fuels your body with goodness.

1. Oat Flour:

Oat flour, derived from whole oats, is a rich source of dietary fibre known to promote heart health. It provides a comforting, nutty flavour to our cakes while delivering essential nutrients.

2. Almond Flour:

Almond flour adds a delicate, nutty taste and a boost of nutrients. It’s rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, offering a wholesome alternative to traditional flours.

3. Anise Seeds:

These tiny seeds bring a subtle liquorice-like flavour and a delightful aroma to the cakes. Anise seeds are not just about taste; they are also known for their digestive properties and potential health benefits.

4. Dates:

Nature’s candy! Dates sweeten our cakes while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Their natural sugars offer a healthier alternative to refined sugars.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV):

ACV introduces a tangy kick to balance the sweetness of the recipe. It’s not just a flavour enhancer; ACV may have various health benefits, from aiding digestion to supporting weight loss.

6. Avocado Oil:

Avocado oil brings its buttery richness and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats to the mix. It’s a great alternative to traditional cooking oils and adds a silky texture to the cakes.

7. Himalayan Sea Salt:

This pink-hued salt not only enhances the overall flavour but also provides trace minerals. Its less processed nature compared to table salt makes it a healthier choice.

8. Banana:

Besides contributing natural sweetness, bananas bring potassium and natural creaminess to the batter. They’re a nutritious binder, eliminating the need for excessive sugar or fat.

9. Almond Milk:

Almond milk adds a luscious, nutty undertone while keeping our recipe dairy-free. It’s a fantastic alternative for those with lactose intolerance or a preference for plant-based options.

10. Vanilla Extract:

Vanilla extract infuses a sweet, aromatic essence into the cakes, elevating the overall flavour profile. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.

11. Eggs:

Eggs contribute to the structure and texture of our cakes. They’re a rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall well-being.

12. Apples:

Apples play a dual role in our recipe, adding both sweetness and texture. They’re packed with fibre, antioxidants, and various vitamins, making them a nutritious addition.

13. Homemade Caramel Sauce:

Elevate your mini cakes with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. Refer to our linked recipe for a quick and easy way to add a decadent touch using natural ingredients.

Now that you’ve acquainted yourself with these wholesome ingredients, you’re ready to embark on a baking adventure that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also nourishes your body. Happy baking!

Equipment

Creating our Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes is a delightful journey made simpler by a few key kitchen companions. Here are the three main pieces of equipment you’ll need to ensure a smooth baking experience:

1. Mixing Bowls:

Your Culinary Command Center:* A large mixing bowl is where the magic begins. Use it to sift and combine your dry ingredients, providing a canvas for the symphony of flavours to unfold. Opt for a spacious bowl to accommodate the blending of wet and dry ingredients seamlessly.

2. High-Speed Blender:

Blitzing Wholesome Goodness:* A high-speed blender is your secret weapon for creating a smooth and velvety batter. It effortlessly transforms dates, bananas, almond milk, and other wet ingredients into a cohesive mixture, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavours in every bite.

3. Silicone Cookie Sheet or Cake Tin:

Shape the Sweetness:* Choose a silicone cookie sheet or cake tin to give your mini cakes a charming form. Silicone is ideal for its non-stick properties, making the release of your baked goods a breeze. The shape is up to you – whether it’s mini bread shapes or traditional round cakes, let your creativity shine.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, sift together oat flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and Himalayan sea salt. Stir to ensure the dry ingredients are well combined, then set aside.

2. Create Wet Batter:

In a high-speed blender, combine dates, bananas, apple cider vinegar, almond milk, vanilla extract, avocado oil, and the egg. Blend until a smooth batter forms.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Add in the diced apple and anise seeds, continuing to fold until evenly distributed.

4. Transfer and Decorate:

Transfer the batter to a silicone cookie sheet in your preferred shape or a cake tin. Consider using a mini bread-shaped silicone sheet for adorable mini cakes. Top the batter with the slices of apple for a visually appealing touch.

5. Bake to Perfection:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (160°C). Bake the mini apple anise cakes for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

6. Cool and Drizzle:

Once baked, allow the mini cakes to cool for a bit before generously drizzling over the homemade caramel sauce. The combination of the warm cakes and the gooey caramel is a match made in dessert heaven.

Caramel Sauce Recipe:

([ caramel sauce recipe])

Storage Instructions for Your Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes

Preserving the freshness and flavour of your Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes is crucial for a delightful eating experience. Follow these storage instructions to ensure your little bites of heaven stay as scrumptious as the moment they came out of the oven:

1. Room Temperature:

Once cooled and drizzled with the irresistible caramel sauce, your mini cakes can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure they are covered or placed in an airtight container to prevent any loss of moisture.

2. Refrigeration for Extended Freshness:

For longer storage, especially if you don’t plan to finish the mini cakes within a couple of days, refrigeration is the key. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to avoid absorbing any odours from the fridge. Your mini cakes can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Freezing for Future Indulgence:

If you want to extend the shelf life even further, consider freezing your Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes. Wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bring them to room temperature before serving.

4. Caramel Sauce Storage:

If you’ve made extra caramel sauce, store it separately in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it in the refrigerator, and it should last for up to two weeks. Warm it gently before drizzling it over your mini cakes  for that perfect finishing touch.

Now, here you have it – a plate full of love, health, and scrumptiousness. These Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes are not only a delightful treat for yourself but also a perfect way to share joy with your loved ones. Enjoy the wholesome goodness, and remember, every bite is a celebration of nourishing your body and soul.

Expert Tips

Baking is not just a science; it’s an art that requires finesse and attention to detail. To ensure your Mini Oat Anise Apple Cakes turn out as delightful as they should, here are five expert tips to guide you through the process:

1. Quality Ingredients Matter:

The foundation of any great dish lies in the quality of its ingredients. Opt for high-quality oat flour, almond flour, and fresh apples. Fresh, organic ingredients not only impart superior flavour but also contribute to the overall nutritional value of your mini cakes.

2. Mindful Mixing for Texture:

When combining wet and dry ingredients, exercise patience and gentleness. Overmixing can lead to a dense and less tender texture in your cakes. Fold the ingredients until just combined to maintain the light and airy quality that makes these mini cakes a delight.

3. Precision in Baking Time:

Baking time can be the make-or-break factor for your mini cakes. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. The toothpick test is your best friend – insert it into the centre, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cakes are ready to come out of the oven. Overbaking can result in dryness, so be vigilant.

4. Creative Silicone Molds:

Experiment with different silicone moulds to add a touch of creativity to your presentation. Mini bread shapes, muffin moulds, or traditional round moulds – the choice is yours. Silicone not only ensures easy release but also promotes even baking. Grease the moulds lightly or use cooking spray to prevent any sticking.

5. Elevate with Homemade Caramel Sauce:

While the mini cakes are delightful on their own, take them to the next level with the homemade caramel sauce. The caramel adds a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the anise and apple flavours. Drizzle the sauce generously when the cakes are still warm for a decadent finishing touch.

Thank You

Thank you so much for reading this blog! I hope you try this recipe and that you enjoy it as much as my family and I did! When you do make these Mini Oat Apple anise cakes, be sure to tag me on Instagram @pure_plates_recipe!

See you soon!