Orange and Walnut Flapjacks

Flapjacks, as we know them in Britain, have a history of over 400 years, originating in the 17th century. Initially, the term "flapjack" referred to a pancake or turnover, likely made on griddles or bakestones using oats, and even mentioned by Shakespeare in 1607. The modern version, a baked bar made with oats, butter, and syrup, gained popularity in the 1930s. 

Ingredients makes 12

• 9oz unsalted butter, chopped into pieces;
• 9oz golden caster sugar;
• 6oz golden syrup;
• 15oz oats;
• 2oz walnut pieces;
• finely grated zest of 1 large orange;
• 3tbsp orange marmalade.

Method

1. Heat oven to 160C and butter a 28 x 8cm shallow baking tin. 
2. Melt the butter, sugar and syrup over a medium heat, stirring all the time. 
3. Take off the heat and stir in the oats, walnuts and orange zest.  The mixture should be quite soft. 
4. Tip into the baking tin and level it off. 0
5. Bake for 30mins or until the edges are golden brown but the centre is still a little soft.
6.  Remove from the oven and mark into 12 pieces while still warm, cutting at least halfway. 
7. Cool. 
8. Heat the marmalade with 1 tbsp water until syrupy.  Brush over the flapjack and leave to cool before cutting completely.