British Flapjacks

British flapjacks are a far cry from what Americans might picture as a pancake-like flapjack. British flapjacks are oat-based squares that are sweet and buttery. These flapjacks have a crunchy and sticky exterior with a chewy bite. In the U.K., British flapjacks are a treasured tradition that they enjoy with a cup of tea or packed for a picnic. While these flapjacks are an occasional treat, the oats are a gluten-free whole grain with loads of soluble fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Ingredients You'll Need for this Recipe

• 2 ½  cups quick oats
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey or golden syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

How to Make British Flapjacks

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Place the unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and salt in a pan. Melt the ingredients over medium heat and stir to combine.
3. Add the quick oats and mix everything together.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking tray or sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Using the silicon spatula, spread the mixture across the entire pan, making sure it is flat and even.
6. Cook in the preheated oven for 35 minutes until it becomes golden brown. Keep in mind that the edges will become darker brown.
7. Allow the flapjacks to cool before cutting them into square or rectangular pieces.

How to Serve British Flapjacks

It is best to serve British flapjacks at room temperature. You can enjoy them on their own or with a cup of tea, following British tradition. For a touch of extra sweetness, drizzle the top with a little honey or golden syrup. If you're feeling adventurous, melt some dark chocolate, dip one side of the flapjack into it, then let it cool and harden for a chocolate-covered treat. You can even sprinkle some flaked coconut or chopped nuts on the chocolate before it sets for added flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations for this Dish

To make the best British flapjacks, try these tips and variation ideas:

• Avoid overbaking the flapjacks to ensure a chewy texture. Remove them from the oven when they are golden brown and still a bit soft in the middle. They'll firm up as they cool.
• Allow the flapjacks to cool before you eat them or they will crumble.
• Make the traditional recipe with golden syrup. You can make it at home or find it in some specialty stores.
• Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
• Coat or dip your cooled flapjacks in melted dark, milk, or white chocolate.
• Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture before baking for a post-workout snack.
• Mix in dried fruits, chocolate chips, granola, seeds, or nuts before baking for extra flavor and variety.
• Add lemon or orange zest to the mixture for a fruity flapjack.

How to Store Leftovers

You can store British flapjacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for longer. To serve, just let them come back to room temperature. Freezing is also an option. Wrap individual flapjacks in plastic wrap then put them into a freezer-safe bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature before serving.

More Dessert Bar Recipes

• Caramel Chocolate Chip Oat Bars (Copycat Potbelly Dream Bars)
• Raspberry Oat Crumble Bars
• No Bake Cherry Chocolate Snack Bars
• No Added Sugar PB&J Baked Oatmeal Bars

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