What better way to celebrate citrus season than turning a whole orange into a delicious homemade cake? This orange oat cake is wonderfully moist, fragrant and easy to make, with a delicate crumb and a fresh citrus flavor in every bite. Made with simple ingredients and no complicated baking techniques, it’s a lovely alternative to traditional orange cakes and perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack or a homemade treat to share.

The secret is using a whole thin-skinned orange, including both the flesh and peel. Blended into the batter, it gives the cake a naturally vibrant flavor and irresistible aroma. Applesauce adds moisture and gentle sweetness, while maple syrup brings a delicious touch of natural sweetness. Whipped egg whites help create a lighter texture, making this oat flour cake surprisingly tender and airy.

Oats are also a nutritious ingredient worth including in your regular diet. They provide complex carbohydrates, fiber and a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which can help support healthy cholesterol levels as part of a balanced diet. Their fiber content also contributes to digestive health and can help make meals more satisfying. Using oat flour instead of conventional wheat flour is an easy way to enjoy these benefits in homemade baking. Oats are naturally gluten-free, although people who need to avoid gluten should choose certified gluten-free oats to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

Oranges bring their own nutritional benefits, particularly vitamin C, which supports normal immune function and helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods. They also contain beneficial plant compounds, including flavonoids. By blending the whole orange into this cake, you make use of both the juicy flesh and the fragrant peel, creating a delicious citrus flavor throughout.

Finished with thin orange slices and an optional light coating of orange jam, this homemade orange oat cake looks beautiful and tastes just as inviting. It’s a simple, wholesome recipe to keep on hand whenever fresh oranges are in season!

Ingredients

• 1 large thin-skinned orange (180 g), plus about ½ an orange (90 g) for topping

• 2 eggs, separated

• ⅓ cup maple syrup

• ¼ cup avocado oil (60 ml), or your preferred oil

• ½ cup applesauce (120 g)

• 2 cups oat flour (180 g)

• 10 g vanilla sugar (optional)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• Approximately 2 tbsp orange jam, for brushing (optional)

Directions

Preparation Time, Baking Information and Servings

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Baking time: 45–50 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 65–70 minutes

• Servings: 8

• Oven temperature: 180°C (350°F)

• Baking pan: Loaf pan, preferably silicone or lined with parchment paper

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving, based on 8 servings:

• Energy: 230 calories

• Protein: 5.72 g

• Fat: 9.63 g

• Carbohydrates: 31.29 g

• Fiber: 3.3 g

Values may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used, the amount of orange jam added and the final serving size.

Storage and Recommendations

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

• Choose the right orange: Use a fresh, thin-skinned orange for the best flavor. Wash it thoroughly before blending.

• Avoid sticking: A silicone loaf pan can be used directly. Line a regular loaf pan with parchment paper.

• Optional orange glaze: Brush the cooled or slightly warm cake with orange jam for extra shine and a touch of citrus sweetness.

• Serving suggestion: Enjoy a slice with tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack.