Chocolate Orange Flapjacks

Fri, 7 February 2025

2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)

1/4 cup coconut oil

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for added chocolate flavor)

Zest of 1 orange

Handful of walnuts & coconut (desiccated)

1-2 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking tin (about 8x8 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Melt wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the coconut oil and peanut butter together. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract.
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, sea salt, and orange zest.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the melted wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture and mix well. Add the orange juice to help bring the mixture together. If it's too dry, you can add a little more orange juice or a splash of water.
5. Add chocolate: Stir in the dark chocolate chips if you're using them.
6. Press into the tin: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking tin. Use a spoon or your hands to press it down evenly so it sticks together.
7. Bake: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the flapjacks are firm to the touch and slightly golden on top.
8. Cool and slice: Allow the flapjacks to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice them into squares or bars.