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As the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the kitchen, few desserts evoke as much nostalgia as the old-fashioned oatmeal cake. This delightful treat, with its moist crumb and warm spices, transports many of us back to our childhoods, where comfort food was synonymous with love and care. The oatmeal cake has long been celebrated for its rustic charm and hearty ingredients, making it not just a dessert but a comforting reminder of simpler times.

Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Cake

Experience the nostalgia of baking with this old-fashioned oatmeal cake recipe that promises to fill your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and versatile add-ins like nuts and coconut, this cake is more than just a dessert—it's a comforting reminder of simpler times. Join us as we explore the ingredients and history behind this beloved treat that has stood the test of time, perfect for any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup rolled oats

1 1/2 cups boiling water

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 cup vegetable oil

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

1 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare Oats: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats and boiling water. Let them sit for about 20-30 minutes to soften and absorb the water.

    Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked oats (with any remaining water) to the wet mixture and stir until well incorporated.

          Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.

            Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the oat mixture, mixing until just combined. If desired, stir in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.

              Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.

                Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

                  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. Slice into squares and serve as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting if you desire!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr | 12 servings