Cherry Bakewell Flapjack Recipe

Cherry Bakewell Flapjack Recipe – if you love the classic almond and cherry combo but want something chewy instead of crumbly, this is your dream bake. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a cherry bakewell flapjack with buttery oats, a layer of sweet cherry jam, and that signature almond taste. You’ll learn how to prepare the perfect oat mixture, how to bake it to golden perfection, and how to top it with a simple white chocolate drizzle. Plus, we’ll answer common questions and offer helpful tips for every step. Let’s start with the story behind this treat.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Bakewell Flapjack Recipe

• Flavor-packed layers: Every bite gives you chewy oats, sweet cherry jam, and that distinct cherry bakewell flapjack almond extract aroma. The combination of cherry flavour with the richness of golden syrup is irresistible.
• Texture that satisfies: The oat mixture includes ground almonds and almond, giving a soft, moist middle with a little crunch from flaked almonds. It’s not too soft, not too crisp—just right.
• Simple ingredients, big reward: Using pantry staples like porridge oats, light brown sugar, and butter melted in a large bowl on medium heat, this recipe is easy and mess-free. The lined baking tin makes clean-up even easier.
• Make ahead and enjoy later: These flapjacks stay fresh for days and taste even better after a night in the fridge. If you’re ever short on time, just keep flapjacks in the fridge for a ready-to-go sweet treat.

Ingredients for the Best Cherry Bakewell Flapjack Recipe

To create the ultimate cherry bakewell flapjack, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients—each bringing rich texture and indulgent cherry flavour to every bite. Be sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

• 400 g porridge oats – the base of your oat mixture, creating a chewy, hearty texture.
• 80 g ground almonds – combined with almond extract for that classic Bakewell aroma and moist crumb.
• 250 g butter – use real butter for a richer taste; it will be melted into the sugar and syrup to form the sticky base.
• 140 g light brown sugar – adds a deep caramel note that complements the golden syrup.
• 150 g golden syrup – the key to the chewiness that makes this bakewell flapjack recipe so irresistible.
• 2 tsp almond extract – the star ingredient that defines the classic cherry bakewell flapjack flavour.
• 5 tbsp cherry compote or cherry jam – for a sweet, fruity middle layer packed with bright cherry flavour.
• 20 g flaked almonds – sprinkled on top to toast in the oven for added crunch and visual appeal.
• 50 g white chocolate – to melt white chocolate and drizzle over the finished flapjacks for a sweet, creamy contrast.

Additional Notes:
Prepare a square baking tin (about 9″) and line it with baking paper. This makes it easy to lift your flapjacks out after baking, and it keeps clean-up to a minimum. The mixture is made in a large bowl, heated on medium heat for even melting and easy mixing.

Once baked, these bars benefit from a cooling period and are even better when stored as flapjacks in the fridge, allowing the flavors to deepen and the bars to firm up for clean slicing.

How to Make Cherry Bakewell Flapjack

This cherry bakewell flapjack recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. With pantry staples and a few clever layers, you’ll achieve a chewy, golden bake full of cherry flavour and almond richness. Follow these detailed steps to get it just right.

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Tin

Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan or gas mark 4). Line a square baking tin with baking paper, ensuring the edges are well covered to prevent sticking. A 9-inch lined baking tin works perfectly for even baking.

2. Melt the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 250 g butter, 150 g golden syrup, and 140 g light brown sugar. Heat the mixture in the microwave on medium heat, stopping every 10 to 15 seconds to stir. Continue until fully combined and you have a smooth, melted butter mixture.

3. Stir in the Dry Ingredients

Add 400 g porridge oats, 80 g ground almonds, and 2 tsp almond extract to the melted base. Mix thoroughly until you have a cohesive oat mixture—it should be sticky and hold together well.

4. Layer the Flapjack

Spoon half of the mixture into your lined baking tin. Use the back of a spoon to flatten it into an even base. Then, spread 5 tbsp cherry jam (or compote) evenly over the surface. The fruity middle brings that iconic cherry bakewell flapjack flavour to life.

Add the remaining flapjack mixture over the jam, pressing it down gently to seal the layers. Don’t worry if a little jam peeks through—it adds charm and flavour.

5. Top and Bake

Sprinkle 20 g flaked almonds over the top layer. Place the tin into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

6. Cool and Decorate

Once baked, allow the flapjack to cool in the tin for at least 10 minutes. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.

In the meantime, melt white chocolate in the microwave on medium heat, stopping every 10–15 seconds to stir. When smooth, drizzle the chocolate over your cooled bakewell flapjack in zigzags or swirls.

Optional Step: Chill for a Cleaner Slice

Transfer your tray to the fridge. Flapjacks in the fridge for an hour or overnight will set beautifully and slice into clean, neat bars. The flavour deepens, the texture firms up, and it’s even easier to store or serve.

What to Serve with Cherry Bakewell Flapjack

This cherry bakewell flapjack recipe makes a treat that’s delicious on its own—but it also shines when paired with the right additions. Whether you’re serving it as a sweet afternoon bite or as part of a larger dessert spread, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

Serve It Warm or Cold

You can enjoy your cherry bakewell flapjack freshly baked, while the melted butter is still warm and the edges are golden. Or, chill your flapjacks in the fridge for a firmer texture and a clean-cut bar perfect for lunchboxes or elegant plating.

Ideal Pairings

• A strong mug of breakfast tea or a latte—perfectly balances the sweet cherry flavour.
• A spoonful of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche to add tang and creaminess.
• Fresh berries or a dollop of extra cherry jam on the side for visual flair and extra fruitiness.

Tips for a Perfect Cherry Bakewell Flapjack Every Time

Here are a few tested tips to help you get this bakewell flapjack recipe just right, even on your first try:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Let your butter come to room temperature before melting. This helps it melt more evenly when heated on medium heat in the microwave.

2. Line Your Tin Properly

Using baking paper to line your square baking tin not only prevents sticking but also makes it easy to lift the finished bars out for slicing.

3. Mix with Care

Make sure your oat mixture is evenly combined. Stir thoroughly in a large bowl, ensuring the porridge oats, ground almonds and almond extract are fully coated in the melted butter and golden syrup.

4. Don’t Overbake

Your flapjacks should be lightly golden and still soft in the center when you take them out. Overbaking leads to a dry texture instead of the chewy, buttery perfection this cherry bakewell flapjack is all about.

5. Chill Before Cutting

Allow the flapjacks to cool completely, or chill the flapjacks in the fridge before slicing. This gives you neat, sharp edges and helps the layers stay intact.

6. Master the Chocolate Drizzle

To melt white chocolate, do so gently in the microwave on medium heat, stirring every 10–15 seconds. This keeps it silky and smooth—perfect for drizzling.

How to Store Your Cherry Bakewell Flapjacks

Once cooled, transfer your cherry bakewell flapjack to an airtight container. These keep beautifully at room temperature for up to 4 days, retaining that chewy center and signature cherry flavour.

For longer storage or sharper slices, place your flapjacks in the fridge. The chill helps the oat mixture firm up, making it easier to cut cleanly. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week refrigerated and can even be frozen for up to a month. Just defrost at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cherry bakewell flapjack recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute the melted butter with a dairy-free baking block, and use a plant-based white chocolate for the drizzle. The results will still be rich and satisfying.

Why are my flapjacks falling apart?

This is usually due to not compressing the oat mixture firmly enough in your lined baking tin or not allowing enough time for the bars to set. Cooling completely, or placing the flapjacks in the fridge, will help achieve clean, stable slices.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry jam?

While cherry jam or compote provides the best consistency and sweetness balance, you can use cooked-down fresh cherries. Just ensure the mixture isn’t too watery, as this could affect the texture of your bakewell flapjack recipe.

Conclusion: A Cherry-Almond Treat Worth Making Again

This cherry bakewell flapjack recipe is more than just a sweet snack—it’s a chewy, buttery homage to a British classic. With its luscious layer of cherry jam, rich almond extract, and the crunch of flaked almonds, it delivers comfort and joy in every bite.

Easy to bake, simple to store, and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned kitchen pro, this one’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your repertoire.

More Bibodo Recipes to Try

If this cherry bakewell flapjack recipe won you over with its chewy texture and deep cherry flavour, you’ll love these other dishes from the Bibodo kitchen:

• Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice – A rich and comforting dinner perfect for after a day of baking. This hearty dish offers the same homemade warmth as a flapjack straight from your square baking tin.
• Bang Bang Chicken Bowl – Light, bold, and full of contrasting textures—just like the balance of melted butter and crunchy flaked almonds in your flapjack layers.
• Mediterranean Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A fresh take on a classic, perfect when you want to add a savory touch to your kitchen lineup. Think golden crispness that rivals the top layer of a well-baked cherry bakewell flapjack.
• Dog Ice Cream with Banana – A playful, pet-friendly treat that shows just how versatile and joyful home cooking can be—just like storing your flapjacks in the fridge to enjoy later.
• Virgin Island Breeze Cocktail – A tropical, refreshing sip perfect for pairing with the sweetness of cherry jam and almond extract in your next bake.