Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Base:
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats
- 1 1/4 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Caramelized Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Carefully prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it thoroughly or lining with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the quick-cooking oats with boiling water. Let the mixture sit for about 20 minutes, allowing the oats to soften and thicken completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which typically takes 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth, even batter. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Sift the dry ingredients to remove any potential lumps.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the soaked oats. Mix gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake tough.
- If you're using nuts, fold them into the batter now. They'll add a delightful crunch to the cake.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Gently tap the dish on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the topping. In a medium saucepan, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut and nuts (if using).
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and set the oven to broil.
- Spread the topping evenly over the hot cake, ensuring complete coverage.
- Return the cake to the oven and broil for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning – you want a golden, bubbly topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes