![A serving of Traditional Irish Oat Flapjacks is served next to a cup of tea.](data:image/svg+xml,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 2048 1365"></svg>)
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Hi Bold Bakers!
WHAT YOU GET: My Traditional Irish Oat Flapjacks are a sweet, chewy, and simple homemade alternative to store-bought granola bars. Grab one for an easy afternoon snack, or enjoy it as a satisfying dessert.
Whenever I get the chance to make an Irish recipe, I’m eager to take it on. This time, I’ve created a foolproof Traditional Irish Oat Flapjacks recipe for bakers who want a taste of a classic Irish treat.
These deliciously chewy and caramel-flavored baked bars are fun and easy to make. Though these flapjacks are very simple, feel free to personalize them to your preferences with different toppings such as fruits and nuts! These additions can amp up the flavor and texture of your already fabulous Irish Flapjacks.
Using just 5 simple ingredients and 7 tools in under an hour, you’ll have perfect flapjacks to snack on — unless your friends and family get to them first!
![Homemade Irish Oat Flapjacks are sliced into individual bars. The oats are a golden brown.](data:image/svg+xml,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 1365 2048"></svg> "Irish Oat Flap Jacks Recipe")
What Are Traditional Irish Flapjacks?
Don’t be fooled by the name; these tasty treats are not pancakes (although the term is used interchangeably in the States). Traditional Irish Flapjacks are sweet baked bars cut into rectangles or squares. They are made from oats, brown sugar, and golden syrup.
Flapjacks are very similar to the classic US granola bar, but the main difference is the golden syrup. This magical syrup creates a softer and chewier texture than a granola bar and gives it an almost caramel-like flavor. The addition of syrup also makes these flapjacks sweeter.
What Is Golden Syrup
Golden syrup is a thick, inverted sugar syrup made by either refining sugar or by adding acid to a sugar water solution. It’s a popular ingredient for baking in Ireland, and it is used in a wide variety of desserts like in my Classic Steamed Treacle Pudding, Homemade Honeycomb, and more!
You can find golden syrup, like the brand Lyles Golden Syrup, in the international food aisle at your grocery store, or order it online! Or, make the perfect golden syrup substitute with my recipe!
Tools To Make Traditional Irish Flapjacks:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Silicone spatula
- Knife
- Wire rack
Are My Flapjacks Baked Thoroughly?
Don’t worry if your flapjacks come out of the oven soft. The heat will make them soft to the touch, but after you let them cool for a bit, they will begin to harden.
You should look for a golden brown color when they first come out of the oven. After letting them cool, your flapjacks should have a nice chewy texture without any crumbling.
How To Store Traditional Irish Flapjacks
Enjoy your Traditional Irish Flapjacks after they have cooled off completely. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips For Making The Best Traditional Irish Flapjacks:
- If you don’t have golden syrup, try making my Homemade Golden Syrup.
- Make sure to use quick-cooking oats and not old-fashioned rolled oats. Learn more about Baking With Oats.
- When done baking, the flapjacks should be slightly soft in the middle (but not too soft.)
- If you want something a little more complex, try adding 1 cup (5 oz/142 g) of diced dried fruit or nuts or 1 cup (6 oz/170 g) of semi-sweet or white chocolate chips.
Try Out More Snack Bars!
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