Craving a hearty and delicious breakfast or a sweet treat for your afternoon tea break? Look no further than 49er flapjacks, a classic flapjack recipe with a twist in the toppings. These flapjacks are made with a base of rolled oats, flour, sugar, and butter, then topped with a layer of golden syrup, chopped dates, and walnuts. The result is a chewy, sweet, and satisfying snack that will keep you going all day long.

Benefits of Consuming 49er Flapjacks
49er flapjacks offer not only taste but also a range of nutritional benefits. For instance, the oats provide a rich source of fiber, which can support digestive health and promote satiety. Additionally, the flapjacks contain heart-healthy fats from the butter and walnuts, making them a healthier treat compared to other sugary snacks.
Ingredients for 49er Flapjacks
To make approximately 12 flapjacks, you will need the following ingredients:
Base:
- 1 cup (150g) rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (60g) plain flour
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cubed
Topping:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) golden syrup
- 1/2 cup (100g) chopped dates
- 1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts
Instructions
Making the Base
- Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas 4).
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Rub in the butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Press the mixture firmly into a 20cm x 20cm baking tin.
Creating the Topping
- Spread the golden syrup evenly over the oat base.
- Sprinkle the chopped dates and walnuts on top.
Baking the Flapjacks
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Leave to cool in the tin for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Flapjacks
- Use good quality oats for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix the base, as this will make the flapjacks tough.
- If you don’t have golden syrup, you can substitute honey or maple syrup.
- Add other toppings to your liking, such as dried fruit, nuts, or seeds.
- Flapjacks can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations on the 49er Flapjack Recipe
The classic 49er flapjack recipe is a great starting point, but you can customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some popular variations:
- Chocolate Chip Flapjacks: Add 1/2 cup (100g) of chocolate chips to the base mixture.
- Caramel Flapjacks: Spread a layer of caramel sauce over the golden syrup before adding the dates and walnuts.
- Peanut Butter Flapjacks: Add 1/4 cup (60g) of peanut butter to the base mixture.
- Fruit and Nut Flapjacks: Use a combination of your favorite dried fruits and nuts for the topping.
FAQs about 49er Flapjacks
Q: What is the origin of 49er Flapjacks?
A: 49er flapjacks are believed to have originated in the gold mining camps of California during the 1849 Gold Rush. They were a popular snack for miners because they were easy to make and provided a quick source of energy.
Q: Can I use gluten-free oats to make 49er Flapjacks?
A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free oats for rolled oats to make gluten-free flapjacks.
Q: How long do 49er Flapjacks last?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, 49er flapjacks can last for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Q: Can I freeze 49er Flapjacks?
A: Yes, you can freeze 49er flapjacks for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight at room temperature before serving.
Q: What are some healthy alternatives to the traditional 49er Flapjack recipe?
A: To make a healthier version of 49er flapjacks, you can use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour, and reduce the amount of sugar in the base mixture. You can also swap out the golden syrup for honey or maple syrup, and use chopped nuts and seeds instead of dates and walnuts.
Q: Are 49er Flapjacks a good source of protein?
A: 49er flapjacks are not a significant source of protein. However, you can add some protein powder to the base mixture or sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for an extra boost.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, a quick afternoon snack, or a sweet treat to share with friends, 49er flapjacks are sure to hit the spot. With their chewy texture, sweet flavor, and customizable toppings, they’re the perfect way to enjoy a comforting and nostalgic treat.
