Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Recipe

Cozy Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Recipe for Sweet Comfort

Lazy day oatmeal cake brings comfort straight to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Soft, warm, and incredibly simple, this recipe transforms ordinary mornings into delightful experiences.

Sweet aromas will drift through your home, promising a delectable treat.

Hearty oats combine with simple ingredients to create something magical.

Minimal preparation means you can relax while the cake bakes.

Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction await you with this delightful dessert.

Slice into a piece and savor every delicious moment.

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Essentials

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Essentials
  • Packed with warm cinnamon and sweet caramelized topping, this cake delivers ultimate comfort food vibes that'll make everyone feel cozy and satisfied.
  • Great for family gatherings, potlucks, or unexpected dessert cravings, this cake appeals to all ages with its simple yet irresistible flavor profile.
  • Uses basic pantry staples you likely already have, eliminating the need for special trips to the grocery store and making spontaneous baking a breeze.

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Ingredient List

Base Ingredients:
  • Rolled Oats: The foundational ingredient that provides a hearty texture and unique flavor to the cake.
  • Boiling Water: Softens the oats and helps create a moist cake base.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and help with caramelization.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structural base of the cake.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Balances and enhances the other flavors in the cake.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the cake's flavor.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Butter, Brown Sugar, Milk: Create a rich, caramel-like topping that adds extra sweetness and moisture.
  • Shredded Coconut, Nuts: Optional ingredients that provide additional texture and nutty flavor to the topping.

How to Prepare Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake

How to Prepare Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Prep the Dish

Turn the oven to 350F.

Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and coat it with butter or cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, mix rolled oats with boiling water and let them soak for 10 minutes until soft and plump.

Step 2: Create the Cake Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and blend:
  • Softened butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Beat until the mixture looks fluffy and light.

Add eggs one at a time, stirring after each.

Pour in vanilla extract and mix.

Fold in the soaked oats.

In another bowl, combine:
  • Flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Cinnamon

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 4: Craft the Delicious Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.

Stir in brown sugar and milk.

Cook until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thick, about 3 minutes.

Remove from heat and mix in:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped nuts (optional)

Step 5: Caramelize the Topping

Switch the oven to broil.

Take the baked cake out and spread the topping evenly across the surface.

Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.

Watch carefully to prevent burning – you want a golden, bubbly top.

Step 6: Cool and Dive In

Let the cake rest for a few minutes.

Slice and serve while warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your cozy oatmeal cake!

Handy Notes for Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake

  • Soak rolled oats in boiling water for exactly 10 minutes to ensure they're tender and absorb moisture without becoming mushy.
  • Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy, preventing a dense texture.
  • Watch the topping closely under the broiler – 2-3 minutes is all you need for a golden, caramelized finish without burning.
  • Swap nuts or coconut with alternatives like dried fruits, chocolate chips, or seeds to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
  • Keep the cake covered at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain its moist, delicious texture.

Storage Tips for Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  • Transfer frozen cake to the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature or warm gently in the oven at 300F for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Pairings for Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake

  • Enhance Oatmeal Cake Experience: Perfect Pairings
  • Brew Complementary Coffee: Select a medium roast Colombian coffee with nutty undertones that perfectly matches the cake's warm cinnamon and caramelized coconut flavors. The coffee's smooth profile will balance the cake's sweetness without overwhelming its delicate texture.
  • Select Creamy Accompaniment: Serve a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside the warm cake. The cold, rich cream will create a delightful temperature contrast and add a luxurious smoothness that highlights the cake's rustic oatmeal base.
  • Recommend Dessert Wine: Choose a light moscato or late harvest riesling with gentle sweetness. These wines offer subtle fruit notes that complement the cake's caramelized topping and provide a sophisticated finishing touch to the dessert experience.
  • Create Textural Contrast: Add a small handful of toasted almonds or pecan pieces on the side. These crunchy nuts will provide an extra layer of texture and enhance the nutty elements already present in the cake's topping.

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Twist Ideas

  • Gluten-Free Oat Delight: Replace wheat flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or almond flour to make the cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Oatmeal Treat: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and swap milk with almond or oat milk for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and replace some sugar with unsweetened applesauce to cut calories and maintain moisture.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Omit nuts from the topping and replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for those with nut allergies, maintaining the cake's crunchy texture.

FAQs

  • Why do I need to soak the oats before mixing them into the batter?

Soaking the oats helps them soften and absorb liquid, which creates a more tender and moist cake texture. This step ensures the oats are fully hydrated and blend smoothly into the batter.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have exactly what the recipe calls for?

Yes, you can make some substitutions. For example, you can use quick oats instead of rolled oats, or replace brown sugar with white sugar. However, keep in mind that minor changes might slightly alter the cake’s texture and flavor.

  • How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

Use the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking, which can make the cake dry.

  • Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Absolutely! This lazy day oatmeal cake is relatively simple to make. The recipe has clear steps, and the techniques are straightforward. Even novice bakers can successfully create this delicious dessert with some careful attention to the instructions.

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Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Recipe

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending nostalgic warmth with simple ingredients. Sweet layers of hearty oats and classic spices promise a delightful breakfast treat you’ll savor with each tender, homemade bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) boiling water
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (220 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the foundational elements by warming the oven to 350F (175C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking vessel. Combine rolled oats with boiling water, allowing them to hydrate and soften for 10 minutes.
  2. Create a creamy base by whipping softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until voluminous and pale. Incorporate eggs individually, then introduce vanilla extract. Fold in the soaked oats until thoroughly integrated.
  3. Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a separate container. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just harmonized without overmixing.
  4. Transfer the batter into the prepared dish, ensuring an even distribution. Bake for 30-35 minutes, confirming doneness by inserting a toothpick that emerges clean.
  5. Craft the luxurious topping by melting butter over medium heat. Introduce brown sugar and milk, stirring until the mixture transforms into a smooth, slightly thickened consistency. Remove from heat and incorporate shredded coconut and chopped nuts.
  6. Switch oven to broil after removing the cake. Lavishly spread the topping across the warm surface. Position under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching intently to achieve a caramelized, bubbly finish without charring.
  7. Allow the cake to cool momentarily before serving, presenting it either warm or at ambient temperature for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Toast oats briefly before soaking to enhance their nutty flavor and add depth to the cake’s overall taste profile.
  • Swap dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version that maintains moisture and richness.
  • Control broiling time carefully to prevent burning, keeping oven rack at least 4-5 inches from heat source for even caramelization.
  • Customize topping with pecans, walnuts, or almonds to introduce different texture and complementary flavor dimensions.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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