Flapjacks are a beloved treat, known for their chewy texture, oaty goodness, and the delightful balance of sweetness they bring to any table. Whether you're looking to indulge in a treat for yourself or need a quick and easy snack to share, our ultimate flapjack recipe promises to deliver simplicity, satisfaction, and that homemade touch we all crave.
Ingredients
- 200g porridge oats
- 100g butter
- 75g golden syrup
- 75g light brown sugar
- A pinch of salt (optional, for an extra flavor)
Method
Follow these steps to create the most delicious and straightforward flapjacks:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-assisted) or gas mark 4.
- Prepare Baking Tin: Grease a 20cm square baking tin or line it with parchment paper for easy flapjack removal.
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Melt Ingredients:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter, golden syrup, and sugar together over a low heat.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
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Combine:
- Once the butter mixture is ready, remove from heat and pour the porridge oats into the saucepan.
- Mix well until all the oats are thoroughly coated. Add a pinch of salt if you desire.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking tin, pressing down with the back of a spoon or spatula to create an even layer. Bake for around 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
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Cool and Slice:
- Allow the flapjacks to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cool enough to handle but still slightly warm, cut into squares or bars.
🍯 Note: While it's tempting to slice flapjacks when they're hot, doing so might cause them to crumble. Let them cool slightly for the best results.
Variations
Here are a few simple twists you can add to customize your flapjacks:
- Chocolate Flapjacks: Mix in 50g of chocolate chips before baking.
- Fruity Flapjacks: Add 50g of dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, to the mixture.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate 50g of your favorite chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Seed Galore: Sprinkle some seeds like sunflower or chia on top before baking for a healthy twist.
Storage
To ensure your flapjacks retain their texture and flavor:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the fridge. This might make them slightly harder but just as delicious.
❄ Note: Flapjacks can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually for easy defrosting.
In creating the ultimate flapjack, we've crafted a recipe that not only provides a delightful treat but also allows for a bit of creativity and personalization. From the initial melt to the final cool, this journey is filled with simple steps leading to a delightful end product. Flapjacks are not just about the quick sweetness; they're a testament to the joy of baking, the warmth of home, and the memories that sweet treats can evoke.
Why are my flapjacks crumbly?
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Crumbly flapjacks might result from not enough binding ingredients like butter or syrup, or from over-baking. Ensure your measurements are accurate and check them earlier next time to prevent overcooking.
Can I use a different type of syrup?
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Yes, you can replace golden syrup with maple syrup or honey, although the flavor profile might change slightly.
What if I want to reduce the sugar content?
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Consider reducing the amount of brown sugar or using substitutes like maple syrup or a sugar-free alternative. However, this might alter the texture and sweetness of your flapjacks.
