The Ultimate Banana Flapjack Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Treat
Are you craving a wholesome and delicious treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than these banana flapjacks! This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring perfectly golden, chewy flapjacks bursting with banana flavour.
Ingredients for Perfect Banana Flapjacks
This recipe makes approximately 12 flapjacks. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller batches.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the sweeter!)
- 100g rolled oats (gluten-free oats work well too)
- 50g plain flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 50g brown sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 50g butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional extras: Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), chocolate chips, dried cranberries, seeds
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Banana Flapjacks
Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked banana flapjacks every time:
1. Prepare the Banana Mash:
Mash your ripe bananas in a large bowl until completely smooth. The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your flapjacks will be.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Whisk together to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix well. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Add Optional Extras:
This is where you can get creative! Fold in your chosen optional extras like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
5. Bake the Flapjacks:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/350°F/Gas Mark 4). Line a baking tray with baking paper. Spoon the flapjack mixture onto the tray, spreading it evenly to form a roughly rectangular shape, about 2cm thick.
6. Baking Time:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time, as ovens can vary.
7. Cool and Cut:
Let the flapjacks cool completely in the tin before cutting into squares. This prevents them from crumbling.
Tips for the Best Banana Flapjacks:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper, the better the flavour!
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can result in tough flapjacks.
- Adjust sweetness: Add more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.
- Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with different nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
- Store properly: Store leftover flapjacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Beyond the Basic Recipe: Variations and Ideas
- Peanut Butter Banana Flapjacks: Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the melted butter.
- Spiced Banana Flapjacks: Add a pinch of ginger and nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Flapjacks: The classic combination!
This banana flapjack recipe is a fantastically versatile base. Don't be afraid to experiment and create your own unique variations! Enjoy!