This soft and lightly spiced pear oatmeal cake is perfect for babies and toddlers. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, yogurt, and ripe pears, it’s naturally sweet and has no added sugar. It’s ideal for baby-led weaning, snacks, or breakfast!
This pear oatmeal cake isn’t just easy to make – it’s also full of nutrients that make it a great choice for the morning. The combination of oats, yogurt, fruit, and a hint of cinnamon gives it a soft texture and naturally sweet flavor without the need for added sugar. It’s filling yet gentle on little tummies, making it perfect to serve as part of breakfast for babies and toddlers. Pair it with some yogurt, nut butter (for older toddlers), or fresh fruit for a complete and balanced start to the day.
Each ingredient in this recipe brings something nourishing to the table:
- Egg – A great source of protein, healthy fats, and choline, which supports brain development.
- Flour – Provides structure and carbohydrates for energy. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and extra nutrients.
- Rolled oats / oat flour – Rich in fiber and iron, oats help keep babies full and support healthy digestion.
- Pears – Naturally sweet, soft, and rich in vitamin C and fiber. They add moisture and natural sweetness to the cake!
- Apples (optional substitute) – You can use finely chopped or grated apples instead of pears. Apples bake beautifully and give a cozy, sweet flavor.
- Yogurt – Adds healthy fats, calcium, and probiotics that support gut health and make the cake moist and tender.
- Milk – Keeps the texture soft and adds calcium and vitamin D.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor while introducing babies to mild spices early on.
This combination makes the cake not only delicious but also nourishing – exactly what you want in a homemade baby breakfast!
Baking Tip
Be careful not to overbake this cake! Overbaking can dry it out, especially since oats absorb moisture. The cake should feel soft and springy to the touch. Start checking at 25 minutes and pull it out as soon as the center is set.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual pieces for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge or warm gently before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as is for baby-led weaning!
- Pair with a dollop of yogurt or a smear of nut butter for older toddlers.
- Cut into fun shapes with mini cookie cutters for a cute snack.
- Serve alongside fruit for a balanced breakfast plate!
Baby-Friendly Pear Oatmeal Cake
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup flour whole wheat or all-purpose
- ½ cup rolled oats or oat flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder optional — makes it fluffier
- ½ cup plain full-fat yogurt
- ¼ cup milk breast milk, formula, or whole milk
- 1 –2 ripe pears peeled and finely chopped (or apples)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small square pan or loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together flour, oats, cinnamon, and baking powder (if using).
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the egg, yogurt, and milk until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped pears (or apples). The batter should be thick but spreadable!
- Pour into pan: Spread the batter evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool completely in the pan, then slice into baby-friendly strips or squares.
