500th Through My Lens (incl. Apple Cake Recipe)

The days in Mostar are beginning to soften. Summer’s golden heat is slowly loosening its grip, and the early hints of autumn are finding their way into daily life. There’s a different rhythm in the air now, one that feels calmer, gentler, and just a little cozier. Evenings are cooler and I find myself naturally settling into a homeward pace.

This change of season always brings with it a sense of renewal for me. It’s the perfect time to reflect, make small adjustments, and prepare for what’s ahead. Lately, I’ve been focusing on my health and following a diet plan that feels both structured and rewarding. Rather than being restrictive, it’s been creative, I’ve been exploring how to make low-calorie meals that are still full of flavor, color, and comfort. From hearty vegetable stews to lean proteins with bright sides, my kitchen has become a little laboratory of sorts. And then there are the sweet experiments, proof that “diet food” can still mean joy on a plate.

My Low-Cal Apple Cake Recipe

Yesterday, I put the finishing touches on what I now call my final version of the apple cake I’ve been refining. It’s low in calories, wholesome, and has just the right balance of lightness and heartiness. Perfect for an afternoon coffee on the balcony as the breeze rustles through the first fallen leaves.

Ingredients

• 4 medium apples (~450 g / ~1 lb), grated

• 200 ml oat milk (~¾ cup + 1 tbsp)

• 50 g rye (roggen) flour (~½ cup, lightly packed)

• 50 g white flour (1/3 cup)

• 50 g egg (1 medium) (1/3 cup)

• 50 g erythritol or sweetener (1/4 cup)

• 10 g inulin powder (1 tbsp, level)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• Cinnamon to taste (about 1–2 tsp)

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.

2. In a large bowl, mix grated apples with oat milk, egg, erythritol, and inulin.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together both flours, baking powder, and cinnamon.

4. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined.

5. Pour batter into a lined baking pan (about 8-inch / 20 cm round or square).

6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

The result is a moist, subtly sweet cake that doesn’t weigh you down. It’s proof that even while on a diet, I can indulge in seasonal traditions without guilt. The whole cake has around 880 kcal, with one slice out of eight having only 110 kcal! Just let it set after baking for an hour (the rye flour is sticky but it will firm up!)

A Milestone: 500 Posts

This post also marks something very special—it’s the 500th edition of the “Through my Lens” link-up. What began as a simple way to share glimpses of life has grown into a community of images and stories, each one offering a unique window into everyday beauty. Reaching this milestone feels humbling and inspiring.

As autumn draws near, I’m grateful for this rhythm of sharing, for the food that keeps me nourished, and for the comfort of home in Mostar as the season slowly shifts.

Thank you all for joining me in another week of "Through My Lens". I am looking forward to your submissions this week. I hope you will have a great start into the new week!  

Now I want to see what you have been up to. Link down below and share with the rest of us!

What "Through my lens" is about

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