British Flapjacks

British flapjacks are traditional chewy oat bars made with rolled oats, butter, golden syrup, and brown sugar. These sweet and satisfying treats are perfect for snacking or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with just a few pantry staples
• Incredibly easy—no mixer or fancy tools needed
• Customizable with chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds
• Great for snacks, lunchboxes, or afternoon tea
• Keeps well and freezes beautifully

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (175 g) golden syrup
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 3½ cups (300 g) rolled oats
• Pinch of salt

Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, dried fruit (like raisins or cranberries), chopped nuts, sunflower or pumpkin seeds

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch (20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter, golden syrup, sugar, and salt over low heat. Stir until fully combined but do not boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the oats until evenly coated.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until lightly golden at the edges.
6. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then score into squares or bars. Allow to cool completely before removing and slicing.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12–16 bars
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30–60 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over cooled flapjacks
• Stir in raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots
• Mix in sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of golden syrup for a different flavor
• Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for warmth

storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
• Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature
• Reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired

FAQs

1. Are British flapjacks the same as pancakes?

No, British flapjacks are oat bars, not griddle cakes like American pancakes.

2. What kind of oats should I use?

Rolled oats work best for texture—avoid instant oats.

3. Can I use honey instead of golden syrup?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

4. Why did my flapjacks come out hard?

Overbaking or boiling the syrup mixture can make them too firm.

5. How do I keep them chewy?

Bake for a shorter time and don’t overheat the syrup mixture.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—use a larger pan and increase the baking time slightly.

7. Are flapjacks gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats to make them gluten-free.

8. Can I add nuts or seeds?

Absolutely—chopped nuts or seeds add great texture and flavor.

9. Are flapjacks healthy?

They’re energy-dense and can be made healthier with less sugar and added fruit or seeds.

10. How should I cut them cleanly?

Score while warm, then cool fully before slicing to prevent crumbling.

Conclusion

British flapjacks are a beloved, fuss-free treat that combines the hearty goodness of oats with sweet, buttery richness. Whether enjoyed plain or jazzed up with extras, these bars are sure to become a go-to snack in your kitchen.

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