There's something wonderfully comforting about a traditional British flapjack. This classic British Flapjack Recipe, made from simple ingredients like oats, butter, and golden syrup, is perfect for a quick snack or a delightful addition to your afternoon tea. With its chewy texture and rich, buttery flavor, flapjacks are sure to become a favourite in your household.
British flapjacks, unlike their American namesake which refers to pancakes, are oat bars that trace their origins back to the Victorian era. These sweet, chewy bars were a staple for miners and schoolchildren alike, offering a portable and energy-boosting snack. The use of golden syrup, a byproduct of sugar refining, gives them their characteristic rich taste and moist texture.
Flapjacks are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them on their own with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve them with a dollop of clotted cream and a handful of fresh berries for an extra special treat. For a variation, consider adding a handful of dried fruits or nuts to the mixture before baking. These bars also pair beautifully with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top once cooled.
To keep your flapjacks fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay deliciously chewy for up to a week. If you'd like to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual bars in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
We hope this traditional British flapjack recipe brings a bit of cosy charm to your home. We'd love to hear how your flapjacks turned out! Share your baking experiences in the comments below and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more classic recipes and delightful treats.
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Chewy, buttery, and perfectly sweet, these traditional British flapjacks are a timeless treat. Made with rolled oats, golden syrup, and a hint of brown sugar, they are ideal for a quick snack or an afternoon tea accompaniment. Easy to make and utterly delicious, these flapjacks will quickly become a family favourite.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4.
Grease a 20x20 cm baking tin and line it with baking parchment.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter, sugar, and golden syrup over low heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the oats and salt until they are fully coated with the syrup mixture.
Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the center is still slightly soft.
Allow the flapjack to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then score into squares or rectangles. Let it cool completely before removing from the tin and cutting fully.
Servings 16
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
You can customize your flapjacks by adding extras like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts. Adjust the golden syrup quantity to control the flapjack's gooeyness. If you prefer a crisper texture, bake for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on the edges to prevent burning.
Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.
