South African Crunchies
Indulge in the irresistible charm of South African Crunchies, a classic treat that combines wholesome rolled oats, desiccated coconut, and rich golden syrup for a delightful balance of texture and flavor. These buttery, golden-baked bars are crisp on the outside, tender in the middle, and boast a comforting sweetness that’s perfect for tea time or a midday snack. Simple to make with pantry staples, the recipe uses an intriguing baking soda and boiling water mixture to create that signature light and crumbly texture. With just 15 minutes of prep time, these crunchy oat squares are an easy way to bring a touch of South African nostalgia to your kitchen. Enjoy them freshly baked or store them in an airtight container for a flavorful treat that lasts all week!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 250 grams Rolled oats
- 100 grams Desiccated coconut
- 150 grams All-purpose flour
- 150 grams Brown sugar
- 180 grams Butter
- 2 tablespoons Golden syrup
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 2 tablespoons Boiling water
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a shallow rectangular baking tin (about 28cm x 18cm) with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, desiccated coconut, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and golden syrup together until smooth. Remove from the heat and set aside.
In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water. Quickly stir the dissolved baking soda into the melted butter and syrup mixture. The mixture will foam up slightly.
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix everything together thoroughly until you achieve a crumbly, sticky consistency.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking tin, ensuring the surface is smooth and compacted.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just firm to the touch.
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and allow the crunchies to cool completely in the tin before cutting. They will firm up as they cool.
Slice into squares or rectangles and store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4206 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 231.7 g | 297% | |
| Saturated Fat | 142.6 g | 713% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 423 mg | 141% | |
| Sodium | 3499 mg | 152% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 485.3 g | 176% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 46.9 g | 168% | |
| Total Sugars | 188.3 g | ||
| Protein | 66.2 g | 132% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 344 mg | 26% | |
| Iron | 23.2 mg | 129% | |
| Potassium | 2037 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
