Introduction to Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake

As the weather cools and leaves begin to speckle the ground with vibrant hues, our cravings for warm, comforting dishes awaken. Enter the Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake—an effortless delight that promises to fill your kitchen with the aroma of spices and everything nice. This recipe is perfect for those lazy days when you want something sweet without too much fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this cake offers simplicity and flavor in equal measure.

The beauty of this oatmeal cake lies in its humble ingredients and the magical transformation they undergo. Rolled oats soaked in boiling water become the backbone of this moist and tender cake, melding beautifully with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. The process is as comforting as the outcome, involving straightforward steps that even the most reluctant bakers will find manageable. This recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most heartwarming treats.

What makes this cake truly special is its broiled coconut-nut topping, which provides a delightful crunch and a golden finish to the soft cake beneath. This combination of textures and the caramelized sweetness of the topping make each bite a delectable treat. Ideal for an afternoon snack, a casual dessert, or a sweet breakfast, the Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake is versatile and sure to be a hit. Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this comforting cake in your own kitchen.

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 1 cup uncooked rolled oats (instant or regular; rolled oats recommended)
• 1 1/4 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup butter or margarine
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons cream or milk
• 3/4 cup flaked coconut
• 1/3 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions

1. Prep the Oats: In a shallow bowl, soak the oats in boiling water for 20 minutes.
2. Cream the Base: While the oats soak, cream together the butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Mix Together: Once the oats are soaked and cool, fold them into the creamed butter mixture. Gently fold the sifted flour mixture into this as well.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Topping: Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cream or milk, coconut, and nuts (if using) in a small bowl.
7. Broil the Topping: After baking, spread the topping evenly over the hot cake. Place under the broiler until the topping is bubbly and golden, watching closely to prevent burning.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your slice of comfort on any lazy day!

Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your taste and available ingredients. Whether you choose to tweak the spices or add a personal touch with your choice of nuts, the Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake is a forgiving recipe that’s bound to comfort and delight.