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Goldilocks-Approved Porridge Recipes to Start Your Day

Goldilocks-Approved Porridge Recipes to Start Your Day

Just right – that’s how your porridge should be every morning, forget about the too hot, too cold, too thick or too thin. In this article, discover some expert tips and perfect porridge recipes that Goldilocks herself would approve of.

Why is porridge so good in the morning?

Porridge is just the ticket when you’re looking for something warm and comforting to kick off your day. It’s really easy to make and totally flexible, so you can jazz it up however you fancy. Whether topped with fresh fruits, nuts, peanut butter, syrups or spices – porridge can handle it all!

It’s the kind of breakfast that keeps things interesting, giving you endless options to mix things up. Plus, it’s a healthy breakfast that gets you ready to face the day with a satisfied belly.

Porridge prep: Tips and tricks 

Before we get to the good stuff (AKA the recipes), explore these pro tips that can help you create the perfect porridge.

The lowdown on cooking

Remember, patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to porridge. Overcooking will leave you with a mushy, almost gluey texture, far from the creamy dreaminess we’re after.

Cook until the oats are plump, with a consistency thick enough to hold the oats together yet creamy enough to make your spoon dive back for more. Stick to the cooking times in your recipe, and you should be fine!

Picking your oats

It’s all about personal taste when it comes to oats. Like your porridge thick and chunky? Go for jumbo or rolled oats. Prefer it smooth? Porridge oats are your pick, giving you a nice, creamy texture. Easy as that!

Soaking your oats

Whether in milk or water, soaking your oats overnight softens and hydrates the grain, which not only speeds up the cooking time but also makes it easier to digest. Just use enough liquid to cover your oats, and they’ll be perfectly prepped by morning.

Keep on stirring!  

Keep stirring to prevent any oats from sticking to the bottom of your pan. A continuous, loving stir will ensure even cooking and a perfect texture every time.

Our favourite porridge recipes

Ready to stir things up? Take a look at our scrumptious porridge recipes.

Absolutely golden porridge

Living up to its name with a delightful combination of creamy oats and a generous drizzle of Lyle’s Golden Syrup. Simplicity is key here, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you just want a pick-me-up!

Coconut banana and cinnamon porridge 

Feeling like a tropical getaway? This recipe whisks you away to paradise with the favours of coconut and cinnamon, perfectly balanced by the creamy oats and sliced banana. It’s a flavour combination that will have you dreaming of palm trees and sandy beaches.

Bacon-crisp porridge 

Taking inspiration from our friends across the pond, this recipe offers a savoury twist on your classic porridge. Plus, the sweet flavours of Lyle’s Golden Syrup perfectly complement the salty bacon.

Morning golden syrup porridge 

This recipe is the epitome of comfort food! It’s quick, easy and oh-so-satisfying. Creamy oats simmered to perfection with a touch of Lyle’s Golden Syrup – it’s the perfect way to start your day.

Tropical coconut milk porridge 

Bring the taste of the tropics to your breakfast table with this dairy-free recipe. With a creamy coconut milk base and topped with toasted cashew nuts, sweet mango, tangy passionfruit and juicy pomegranate seeds – this porridge is bursting with flavour and colour.

Blueberry and hazelnut porridge 

Bursting with fresh blueberries and the delightful crunch of hazelnut, this combination will tantalise your tastebuds and keep you energised all morning long.

Pomegranate, blueberry and blackberry porridge 

A berry delicious way to start your day, blending the tartness of pomegranate with the sweetness of blueberries and blackberries for a flavour-packed morning feast.

Mornings are better with Lyle’s Golden Syrup

Start your day the golden way with Lyle’s Golden Syrup, adding that touch of sweetness that makes every porridge recipe better.

Explore our range to find your perfect porridge partner, because every morning should feel just right!

Six Essential Tips for Perfect Homemade Flapjacks

Six Essential Tips for Perfect Homemade Flapjacks

There’s nothing quite like the smell of homemade flapjacks filling your kitchen. These oaty delights are a staple for anyone looking for a mix of comfort and nostalgia in every bite.

Flapjacks are wonderfully versatile, allowing your creativity to shine by experimenting with various flavours. Yet, even the basic flapjack, in its simplicity, stands out as a truly unbeatable treat.

In this article, explore six essential tips that will help you make incredible homemade flapjacks and learn how you can switch up the flavours.

#1 Opt for butter over margarine

When it comes to creating flapjacks with a rich, indulgent flavour, butter is your go-to ingredient. Its natural creaminess enhances the flavours, making your flapjacks taste even better!

#2 Add more golden syrup for a gooey texture

For flapjacks that heat the sweet spot between chewy and gooey, add a little extra Lyle’s Golden Syrup. This ingredient is your golden ticket to achieving that irresistible texture and classic, sweet flavour.

#3 – Thoroughly mix your oats 

Avoid the pitfall of unevenly cooked flapjacks by ensuring your oats are thoroughly mixed. It’s a simple but crucial step for a uniformly delicious result, where every bite is as good as the last.

#4 – Properly grease your baking tin

There’s nothing worse than flapjacks that stick to the pan. A well-greased tin (with either butter or oil) is the secret to flapjacks that can be easily removed, ready to be devoured.

#5 – Flatten your mixture for an even bake

An even layer of mixture is key to perfect baking. Flatten your flapjack mixture with a spatula or the back of the spoon to make sure it reaches the edges of your square baking tin. This step is vital for achieving that golden-brown finish without any uneven, undercooked, or overly crispy edges.

#6 – Mastering portion sizes

After your flapjacks have had their time in the oven, leave them to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. This little break makes them just firm enough to cut, but still soft enough to mark out your portions. Use a sharp knife to score the surface into squares or rectangles—whichever shape you fancy.

Letting them cool completely in the tin is the next step. This patience pays off, making your flapjacks even easier to handle. Plus, if you’ve lined your tin with baking parchment (AKA greaseproof paper), you’re in for a smooth ride. Simply lift the whole batch out and onto a board, then cut into squares using your pre-marked lines.

This method ensures you get neat, uniform pieces ready for serving, sharing, or maybe just a bit of solo indulgence.

Want to add some flavour to your flapjacks?

If the classic taste of oats and golden syrup leaves you wanting more, it’s time to add some extra flavour. Take a look at these recipes for inspiration!

Carrot cake flapjacks

Can’t resist carrot cake? Now you can enjoy its delicious flavours in flapjack form! This recipe combines grated carrots, warming spices, and walnuts with the classic flapjack base for a unique and satisfying treat.

Triple chocolate flapjacks

These triple chocolate flapjacks are the ultimate indulgence, featuring cocoa powder, dark chocolate chunks AND melted chocolate. After just 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll be left with 16 squares of mouth-watering flavours.

Treacle flapjacks

This classic recipe features Lyle’s Black Treacle, a rich and flavourful syrup that creates a deep, satisfying flavour. Imagine the warm, comforting aroma filling your kitchen as these beauties bake.

Apple pie flapjacks

Imagine an apple pie, but instead of a pastry crust, it has a base of chewy, oaty goodness! Packed with apples, cinnamon, and Lyle’s Golden Syrup, these flapjacks are a delicious and comforting treat.

Lemon and ginger flapjacks

Are you looking for a lighter option? These lemon and ginger flapjacks are bursting with a fresh citrus flavour and the warming kick of ginger, and they only take 30 minutes to bake.

Peanut butter flapjacks

Calling all peanut butter fans! These flapjacks are packed with flavour, making them the perfect snack or after-dinner treat.

Now it’s your turn!

Whether you stick to the classics or venture into new flavour territories, the perfect batch of homemade flapjacks is just a preheated oven away!

But before you start, there is one golden rule to remember: You can’t make flapjacks without Lyle’s Golden Syrup. It’s what gives flapjacks their iconic texture and flavour, so make sure you’re fully stocked before you start baking.

The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Peanut Brittle

The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Peanut Brittle

A sweet treat that’s both simple to make and irresistibly tasty, peanut brittle is a classic confection that’s tantalised tastebuds for generations.

In this article, discover the answers to your most pressing peanut brittle questions and get helpful tips for perfecting our beloved peanut brittle recipe.

What is peanut brittle made from?

At the heart of this crunchy classic are just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect brittle. You’ll need:

1) Butter: To give it a creamy richness.

2) Caster sugar: The fine texture allows it to melt beautifully.

3) Water: To help the sugar melt and stop sugar crystals from forming.

4) Peanuts: To add that delightfully nutty crunch.

Lyle’s Golden Syrup: To bring a uniquely rich sweetness to this treat.

What’s the difference between peanut brittle and toffee?

Although both peanut brittle and toffee may look similar, they are different in the following ways:

Ingredients

Peanut brittle is a harmonious blend of sugar, water, butter, and golden syrup, with peanuts added to create a textural delight.

Toffee, on the other hand, is a luxurious mix of butter (proportionally more than peanut brittle) and sugar, with milk or cream often added for extra richness and depth.

Texture

Brittle boasts a satisfyingly hard and snappy texture, breaking cleanly and melting in your mouth.

Toffee offers a more varied texture, ranging from soft and chewy to hard and crumbly, depending on how it’s prepared.

Flavour

The flavour profile of peanut brittle focuses on the caramelised sweetness of sugar and Lyle’s Golden Syrup with the earthy taste and crunch of peanuts.

Toffee, however, has a richer and more layered flavour profile, with the buttery, creamy ingredients contributing to a deeper, more complex taste.

Whether you crave the straightforward sweetness and crunch of brittle or the rich, creamy indulgence of toffee, both treats offer a unique and satisfying experience.

Why won’t my peanut brittle set properly?

One of the most common challenges when making peanut brittle is achieving its signature hard, crunchy texture. The key lies in the sugar being heated to the right temperature – ideally between 300-310°F (149-154°C).

Using a sugar thermometer (also known as a candy thermometer) can help you hit this sweet spot accurately. However, if you don’t have a sugar thermometer, you can still achieve great results with a simple cold-water test: Drop a small amount of the sugar mixture into ice-cold water, and if it hardens immediately, your sugar is at the right temperature.

How do you store peanut brittle?

Storing your brittle correctly is crucial to maintaining its delightful crunch. The best method is to allow it to cool completely, then place your brittle in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture. This way, it will last up to 8 weeks.

While it might be tempting to use the fridge for storage, its humid environment can soften your brittle. You can, however, freeze your peanut brittle, where it can be preserved in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Creative uses for peanut brittle 

Peanut brittle is undeniably delicious on its own, but it also adds a wonderful twist to various other desserts. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it elsewhere:

1) Ice cream and frozen yoghurt toppings: Crumble the brittle into small pieces and sprinkle over your favourite ice cream or frozen yoghurt for a delightful crunch.

2) A glorious garnish: Add a new dimension to cakes, pies, and brownies by topping them with your brittle, blending the nutty crunch with the softness of your baked treats.

3) Milkshake and smoothie flavour booster: Blend pieces of brittle into your milkshake or smoothie to infuse a rich, nutty flavour.

4) Elegant dessert toppings: Sprinkle shards of brittle over puddings or mousses for a sophisticated and delicious finishing touch.

5) Homemade chocolate bark: Create a bespoke chocolate bark by mixing chopped brittle into melted chocolate, then cooling it into breakable pieces for a sweet and crunchy delight.

To ensure the brittle retains its crunch, add it to your desserts just before serving. If it’s too hard to break by hand, a quick pulse in a food processor can bring it to the desired size for your culinary creations.

Crunch time: Make your own peanut brittle!

Now that you’re equipped with all the know-how and inspiration, it’s time to try our cracking peanut brittle recipe. Remember, the secret to truly exceptional homemade peanut brittle is Lyle’s Golden Syrup, which brings a touch of golden sweetness to every bite.

Ready to begin? Explore our range of products, don your apron, and get cracking!

Sweet and Savoury Delights: Mouth-Watering Black Treacle Recipes to Try at Home

Sweet and Savoury Delights: Mouth-Watering Black Treacle Recipes to Try at Home

A kitchen cupboard stable since it launched in 1950, you can’t dispute the incredible versatility and rich flavours of black treacle. This powerful syrup brings depth and character to both sweet and savoury dishes.

In this article, discover what makes Lyle’s Black Treacle so unique, and explore a selection of popular black treacle recipes that showcase its delightful qualities.

First things first, what is treacle?

Lyle’s Black Treacle is a hidden gem in the world of liquid sweeteners. This thick, dark syrup is a by-product of refining sugar. With its distinctive, deep flavour derived from cane molasses gathered during the late stages of the sugar refining process, it’s a powerful ingredient that adds richness to cakes, puddings, glazes, sauces and marinades.

Black treacle has a subtly sweet, and slightly bitter flavour. Beyond its bittersweet taste, it adds a stunning visual depth to your dishes, making it a favourite among professional chefs and home cooks alike!

Can you replace molasses with black treacle?

Absolutely! As the British counterpart to molasses, black treacle is slightly sweeter, making it an excellent alternative in recipes calling for molasses. This versatility means that black treacle finds its way into many different dishes.

What’s the difference between black treacle and golden syrup?

Both black treacle and golden syrup are byproducts of the sugar refinery process, but they differ significantly in flavour and application.

Black treacle offers a rich, distinct flavour with a slightly bitter note, perfect for adding a depth of flavour to a variety of bakes. Golden syrup, on the other hand, is sweeter, lighter in colour, and has a caramelised, buttery taste.

While both syrups have clear differences, they both play a key role in adding flavour, sweetness and colour to different dishes.

Tasty black treacle recipes

Let’s explore some of the delightful recipes that feature Lyle’s Black Treacle, from sweet indulgences to savoury delights.

Cakes and flapjacks

Black treacle’s rich colour and flavour bring a unique depth to baked goods. Its thick consistency aids in retaining moisture, ensuring soft, chewy textures. Perfect for bold flavours like ginger and chocolate, black treacle elevates desserts with its sophisticated taste profile.

Our sweet recipe highlights include:

Savoury dishes

Surprisingly, black treacle’s magic extends to savoury dishes as well. It adds a bitter caramelised flavour to marinades, glazes and other savoury dishes, enhancing the natural taste of meats and vegetables. Plus, its dark colour adds a glorious visual appeal!

Black treacle’s sweetness is perfect for balancing acidic ingredients in sauces and marinades, creating harmonious and richly flavoured dishes. Here are some savoury recipes where Lyle’s Black Treacle plays a key role:

Lyle’s Black Treacle: Your gateway to fabulous flavours

Eager to try these tantalising recipes? Lyle’s Black Treacle is your ticket to an extraordinary world of flavour. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cooking enthusiast, these recipes offer a fantastic way to explore and enjoy the unique flavours of black treacle.

Sharing the Love: Tips & Tricks to Elevate Our Rhubarb Crumble Recipe

Sharing the Love: Tips & Tricks to Elevate Our Rhubarb Crumble Recipe

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or looking to explore the wonders of the kitchen, our easy rhubarb crumble recipe will help you transform simple ingredients into a show-stopping pudding.

Keep reading to discover a selection of tips and tricks to help you elevate our classic rhubarb crumble recipe and make something truly extraordinary!

Expert tips for selecting and preparing your rhubarb

Creating a show-stopping crumble starts by selecting the ideal rhubarb. Look for rhubarb that feels firm to the touch and boasts a vibrant red or candy pink colour – a sure sign they’re ripe and bursting with flavour.

Steer clear of stalks that appear too pale or yellow, as they may lack the ripeness needed to deliver that punch in flavour essential for a memorable crumble.

Now it’s time to prepare your rhubarb. Start by washing the stalks thoroughly. Then cut off the top where the leaves attach – remember, rhubarb leaves are toxic and shouldn’t be eaten.

Next, tackle the bottom of the stalks. These parts can have a woody and fibrous texture, so cut about an inch away from the bottom of the stalk to ensure the most tender and flavourful parts make it to your crumble.

Mastering the balance between sweet and sour 

Rhubarb’s natural tartness is a challenge for every baker. To create a rhubarb crumble that sings with flavour, you must find the right balance of sweet and sour. Too much sugar and you’ll mask the rhubarb’s unique, zesty charm; too little, and its acidity might overpower your dessert.

Let’s explore some tips to strike this harmonious balance:

1) Every batch of rhubarb has a unique level of tartness. Before adding sweeteners, taste the raw rhubarb to get an idea of its natural flavour profile.

2) Start gradually adding caster sugar and Lyle’s Golden Syrup to your rhubarb. Stir and taste as you go, allowing the sweet flavours to mingle with the rhubarb’s acidity.

3) The beauty of crumble lies in its versatility, there’s no right or wrong answer! Whether you prefer a tangier or sweeter dessert, adjust the caster sugar and golden syrup quantities to cater to your preference.

Crafting the perfect crown for your rhubarb crumble

The crowning glory of a rhubarb crumble is undeniably its crumbly layer – the golden brown topping that makes every bite a delight. Achieving this perfection might seem daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can create a topping that’s the talk of the table.

#1 – Cold Butter 

The secret to the perfect crumbly topping is using cold butter. Cube the butter and keep it refrigerated until the moment you need it. This ensures that the butter doesn’t melt too quickly, which is key to achieving that desirable crumbly texture.

#2 – The right technique

Gently rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. If you don’t want to use your fingers, you can use a food processor to pulse the ingredients together and create a consistent crumble mixture.

#3 – Adding extra texture and flavour

Customise your crumble to your heart’s content! For an extra crunch, mix in rolled oats or sprinkle demerara sugar on top of your crumble mixture before baking. You can also introduce spices like cinnamon or mixed spice for a warm, aromatic flavour.

Choosing the perfect accompaniment to your crumble

The right topping can transform a good rhubarb crumble into a great one. Traditional options like a smooth, rich vanilla custard or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complement the tartness of the rhubarb beautifully. Alternatively, a scoop of ice cream can offer a delightful contrast to the warm crumble, creating a dance of hot and cold sensations on your palate.

For a contemporary twist, consider a tangy raspberry coulis that adds a burst of fruitiness, or a sprig of fresh mint to add a refreshing note to your dessert.

Ready to make your rhubarb masterpiece?

Now you have everything you need to perfect our easy rhubarb crumble recipe. Don’t forget to add Lyle’s Golden Syrup for amazing, caramelised flavours that perfectly complement the tartness of rhubarb. Check out our range to add a golden touch to your bakes!

The Secret to Perfecting our Holly Jolly Christmas Cake Recipe 

The Secret to Perfecting our Holly Jolly Christmas Cake Recipe 

‘Tis the season for a festive favourite that’s a cut above the rest – the beloved Christmas Cake! Far from being a daunting kitchen challenge, making your very own Christmas cake is easy – especially with our Christmas cake recipe! It’s a true labour of love that’s absolutely worth every whisk and stir.

In this article, unwrap the wonders of this festive treat and discover the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

A slice of Christmas cake history

Christmas cake didn’t start life as the rich, fruit-laden delight we know today. It began as a humble plumb porridge, a hearty meal created for people to eat after a day of religious fasting. As time went on, other fruits and honey were added, and it evolved into a pudding.

Fast forward to the 16th century, and the transformation into a more recognisable fruit cake begins. The oats were replaced by flour and eggs, and the introduction of imported spices from the East added a new depth of flavour, marking a significant turning point in the evolution of this festive treat.

Rich families could wrap their cakes in marzipan and adorn them with ornate royal icing decorations. It soon became fashionable to have large, beautifully iced Christmas cakes at festive feasts and celebrations to flaunt their wealth.

And here’s a festive fact – the term ‘Christmas cake’ wasn’t always used! Initially, this dessert was known as the ‘twelfth cake’, as it was used to celebrate the twelfth day of Christmas on the 5th of January.

However, as work schedules changed during the Industrial Revolution, this celebration shifted to concentrate more on Christmas Day. This shift in tradition naturally led to this beloved treat being renamed to ‘Christmas cake’.

Festive FAQs: Perfecting your Christmas cake

Don’t worry – our easy Christmas cake recipe is Santa-approved for maximum Christmas cheer! But before you tie your apron and preheat your oven, let’s explore the answers to some of the most asked questions.

What’s the difference between a fruit cake and a Christmas cake?

While Christmas cake and fruit cake may seem similar at first glance, a few key differences set them apart. The most notable distinction lies in the feeding process and the specific time of year they are served.

On the other hand, fruit cake is a more general term encompassing any dense, rich cake filled with mixed dried fruits, nuts, spices, and brown sugar. Unlike its festive counterpart, fruit cake isn’t tied to a specific season or holiday and is enjoyed all year round.

How long before Christmas should you make a Christmas cake?

Wondering when to make your Christmas cake? Well, that’s up to you. Some avid bakers bake their cake up to four months before the big day, feeding the cake with their chosen alcohol (either brandy, whiskey or sherry) every week, allowing it to mature and develop deep, rich flavours.

But if you’re working on a tighter schedule, you can also make your cake just a week in advance. Remember to feed your cake every two–three days to keep it moist and flavourful.

How do you feed a Christmas cake?

Feeding your Christmas cake is a crucial step in achieving a moist cake and the elf-tastic flavours we know and love.

All you have to do is gently poke holes in your cake with a skewer and drizzle about two tablespoons of alcohol over the top. These holes you created will help the cake absorb the alcohol evenly.

Once you’ve fed your cake, wrap it in foil or cling film and store it in an air-tight container, this will help keep it safe and sound while it matures.

Do you need black treacle in a Christmas cake?

While black treacle does add a deep, rich flavour and slightly sticky texture to traditional Christmas cake recipes, our recipe uses Lyle’s Golden Syrup. Here’s why our glorious golden syrup is a fantastic choice:

1) It adds a delectable caramel flavour that perfectly complements the dried fruits and mixed spice in a Christmas cake.

2) It helps keep the dried fruits plump and the cake moist, crucial for a scrumptious, melt-in-the-mouth experience.

3) The sweetness of golden syrup is an ideal match for the tartness of raisins, currants, sultanas and mixed peel.

Can you leave the Christmas cake mixture overnight?

Soaking the fruit in alcohol overnight is a wonderful way to enhance your Christmas cake’s flavours, helping to plump up the mixed dried fruit and create a moist cake.

To ensure the best results, use a large bowl and cover it with cling film to help lock in the moisture and prevent it from drying out. It’s also a good idea to put the mixture in the fridge, which will help slow down the fermentation process and prevent the fruits from becoming too sour.

How to decorate a Christmas cake? 

Christmas cake is traditionally iced with marzipan and fondant icing. To begin, carefully place your cake on a cake board. Then, spread a thin layer of apricot jam over the cake and cover it with marzipan. Leave this to set and harden overnight.

The next step is to lightly brush the marzipan with water, which helps the fondant icing stick to the cake. Then carefully drape the icing over the cake, smoothing it down to cover it completely. Now, this is where the fun begins!

Use any leftover fondant icing and marzipan to create decorations. You can use cookie cutters to make festive shapes, like snowflakes or Christmas trees. Or, why not try your hand at sculpting your very own snowman or reindeer? Let your imagination run wild!

Yule be sorry if you don’t try our easy Christmas cake recipe! 

Get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven and embrace the warmth of Christmas cheer. And remember, the key to a truly exceptional Christmas cake is Lyle’s Golden Syrup, the secret ingredient that elevates every bite.

Eager to get started? Explore our range of products and buy Lyle’s Golden Syrup to ensure your Christmas cake is nothing short of heavenly.

Your Ultimate Guide to Sticky Toffee Pudding: Recipes, Tips and Tricks

Your Ultimate Guide to Sticky Toffee Pudding: Recipes, Tips and Tricks

In a world full of desserts, there are a few that truly stand out as classic favourites across the UK – one of which is the sticky toffee pudding.

Discover the magic behind this beloved dessert, get handy baking tips to enhance your puddings, and explore our classic sticky toffee pudding recipes featuring our famous Lyle’s Golden Syrup.

Why do we all love sticky toffee so much?

Sticky toffee pudding is a moist cake infused with the deep, rich flavours of dates and toffee. The warm, buttery sauce paired with a light and airy sponge is—quite frankly—out of this world!

On those cold winter days, nothing beats the comforting embrace of a warm sticky toffee pudding. Its heat and sweetness are the perfect antidote to the chill outside, offering a cosy refuge in every bite.

The toffee’s richness beautifully complements the savoury delights of winter feasts, making it an ideal dessert for any winter gathering, from elegant dinner parties to relaxed family get-togethers.

Choosing your ideal topping for the perfect finishing touch 

Let’s face it – sticky toffee puddings are amazing on their own, but they’re even better with a topping or two!

You can choose any topping you like, but the key is to use something that compliments your pudding instead of diminishing it. After all, the sticky toffee pudding is the star of the show!

You can try a dollop of whipped cream, the light and fluffy texture pairs perfectly with this sticky dessert. Or why not try a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Its cool creaminess offers the perfect contrast to this warm pudding.

For those who prefer a velvety smooth accompaniment, a drizzle of custard can also elegantly compliment this dessert.

Our classic sticky toffee pudding recipe

Discover the joys of homemade sticky toffee pudding with our easy-to-follow sticky toffee pudding recipe. Simple, straightforward and perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to delight with its rich flavours and comforting warmth.

Top tips for baking the perfect pudding

Let’s begin with the heart of the pudding – the dates. Boiling them in water is key; it softens their firm texture and intensifies their natural sweetness. For a smoother texture, you can blend the boiled dates until they’re smooth, but be careful, as the mixture will be hot.

When you cook your cake, try baking it in the oven for 30 minutes, then cover with foil and bake for an additional 15 – 20 minutes. This handy tip helps prevent the top of your pudding from overcooking.

An easy way to check if your cake is cooked is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the centre; if it comes out clean, your cake is done.

How to create the ultimate toffee sauce 

Now for the crowning glory – the toffee sauce! Place Lyle’s Golden Syrup, Tate & Lyle Soft Brown Sugar, butter and double cream into a medium-sized non-stick pan.

Next, continuously stir over a low heat until the sugar has dissolved, leaving you with a gloriously smooth toffee sauce.

Finally, serve each portion of the cake generously doused in the warm toffee sauce and watch as it becomes an instant favourite.

Other sticky toffee pudding recipes to try

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to level up your sticky toffee pudding prowess, check out these two recipes that bring a modern twist to the classic dessert.

Lyle’s Golden Syrup and clementine sticky toffee pudding

The zesty, citrus kick of clementine wonderfully counteracts the indulgent richness of the sticky toffee pudding, adding a fresh and tangy twist.

Sticky toffee pudding with salted toffee sauce

This recipe takes the classic sticky toffee pudding to new heights by incorporating salt into the toffee sauce, creating an exquisite balance of sweet and savoury flavours.

Make the ultimate sticky toffee pudding with Lyle’s Golden Syrup

Eager to try these mouth-watering sticky toffee pudding recipes? Don’t forget the key ingredient – Lyle’s Golden Syrup. Browse our selection now and add that special golden touch to your desserts.

Spice Up Your Desserts: Heavenly Ginger Cake Recipes to Enjoy This Winter

Spice Up Your Desserts: Heavenly Ginger Cake Recipes to Enjoy This Winter

It’s the perfect time of year to indulge in the gorgeous flavours of ginger cake! With its rich spices and comforting warmth, ginger cake isn’t just a dessert, it’s a seasonal staple.

In this article, learn all about this incredible treat and discover some amazing ginger cake recipes that we think you’ll adore!

The irresistible appeal of ginger cake 

Delight in the blend of ground ginger, stem ginger, and mixed spice coming together in a symphony of flavours. This aromatic blend creates a sense of warmth and cosiness, perfect for seasonal gatherings and chilly evenings by the fire.

The ingredients of ginger cake can vary from recipe to recipe, but they tend to have similar base ingredients.

Lyle’s Black Treacle, with its thick, syrupy richness, brings depth and complexity to a ginger cake. It’s the secret that captivatingly balances between sweet and slightly bitter tones.

To add in some further magic, mix in Tate & Lyle Soft Brown Sugar, which creates a deeper colour and intense flavour.

And let’s not forget Lyle’s Golden Syrup, the hero ingredient that creates a caramel-like flavour and sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the zing of the ginger and the earthiness of the spices.

Winter comfort on a plate

Ginger cake embodies the essence of winter comfort. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories and feelings it evokes. The warmth of the ginger spice is a welcome sensation during the colder months, turning each slice into a nostalgic journey.

Plus, ginger cake has a longer shelf life. You can store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks, allowing you to indulge in its delightful flavours whenever you desire.

Elevate your ginger cake with these divine toppings

Transform your ginger cake into a culinary masterpiece with these mouth-watering toppings. Each one brings a unique twist, enhancing the cake’s warm and spicy flavours:

Ice cream

The contrast between the cold, creamy texture of the ice cream and the warm, spiced cake achieves a delightful flavour explosion!

Whipped cream

Light and airy whipped cream adds a delicate, cloud-like softness to your ginger cake.

Chocolate sauce

The deep, rich flavours of our chocolate sauce recipe pair perfectly with the spicy notes of ginger, creating a luxurious and decadent topping.

Caramel sauce

Our stunning caramel sauce recipe adds a sweet and buttery flavour to this wintertime treat, offering a luscious, velvety finish.

Custard

A British classic, our smooth and creamy custard recipe is a soothing contrast to this pudding’s vibrant spice.

Try these delicious ginger cake recipes 

Easy gingerbread cake

A simple, easy-to-make gingerbread cake that matures into a stickier, richer flavour if eaten a few days after baking. Finish it off with a dusting of icing sugar or some silky smooth buttercream.

Ginger parkin with honeycomb

Experience the essence of Autumn and Winter with this traditional Yorkshire gingerbread, enhanced with a crunchy honeycomb topping.

Oh-so sticky gingerbread 

This delightful richly spiced sticky ginger cake is perfect for adding a touch of warmth to winter evenings.

Sticky ginger cinder toffee cupcakes

Perfect for festive occasions, these cupcakes blend the sweetness of cinder toffee with classic seasonal spices.

Ginger and treacle traybake

Indulge in this spicy, ginger-infused traybake topped with a unique ginger icing, a delicious option for any gathering.

Don’t forget Lyle’s!

Don’t forget to stock up on Lyle’s Golden Syrup and Lyle’s Black Treacle, the essential ingredients that will bring these ginger cake recipes to life!

Everything You Need to Know About Treacle Tart

Everything You Need to Know About Treacle Tart

Famed on the big screen and as a classic school dinner pudding – the treacle tart has been a British staple for generations.

Read on to learn more about this famous dessert and discover tips and tricks on how to make a delicious treacle tart with Lyle’s Golden Syrup.

What is a treacle tart?

A treacle tart is a delicious British pudding, but it doesn’t contain treacle – the main ingredient is actually golden syrup (often referred to as light treacle).

With a buttery shortcrust pastry base, this classic pudding is filled with a mixture made from golden syrup, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, butter, egg and cream – creating a luscious, sweet treat. The breadcrumbs are used to bind the filling together, to give it some bite and to help it hold its shape when it’s cut.

The sweet, buttery and caramelised flavours of golden syrup are what make this pudding so indulgent, and the addition of lemon zest cuts through the sweetness and gives a zesty kick!

This iconic dessert has been featured in famous films like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and its magical flavours are well-known for being Harry Potter’s favourite dessert.

Add an extra layer of yumminess with these treacle tart toppings 

While a well-made treacle tart is undeniably delicious on its own, there’s no reason you can’t take it up a notch with the perfect topping.

Whether you’re looking for a creamy accompaniment to enhance the gooey filling or a zesty contrast to balance out the sweetness, there are loads of options to choose from, including:

Clotted cream

Whipped cream

Toasted coconut flakes

Melted chocolate

Crème Fraiche

Chopped nuts

Custard

Fresh fruit

Ice cream

Is the thought of this dessert making your mouth water? Check out our super simple recipe and make your own!

Ingredient swaps for different dietary requirements

If you’re vegan, gluten intolerant, or just looking for some alternative options, we’ve got you covered! Making a scrumptious treacle tart that caters to your dietary requirements is easier than you think.

Gluten-free alternatives

No need to miss out on this British classic if you can’t have gluten, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour.

Dairy-free butter options

Say goodbye to traditional butter! Swap it out for coconut oil or vegan butter to keep your tart dairy-free.

Egg alternatives 

There are plenty of egg substitutes out there. For example, to replace one egg simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for 15 minutes to thicken.

Alternatively, you can try our Union Jack treacle tart recipe which is entirely egg-free!

Luxurious Cream Substitutes

Don’t fret if you’re avoiding dairy! Coconut cream, coconut milk, or dairy-free yoghurt make excellent double cream replacements.

Milk Replacements

Some treacle tart recipes call for milk, but that’s no problem here. You can switch it up with coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk to keep things plant-based.

Tips and tricks to help you make a top-notch treacle tart

Make your own breadcrumbs

You can easily make your own breadcrumbs at home, you can either:

1. Take some fresh bread, leave it out for a day and blitz it in the food processor until it looks like breadcrumbs.

2. If you don’t have as much time, you can toast the bread, leave to cool and blend it in the food processor instead.

You can even make breadcrumbs and keep them in the freezer for up to three months, to make your life even easier!

Whizz up the pastry in a food processor

If you’re short on time, don’t worry! You can use a food processor or blender to make a gorgeous, buttery pastry for your delicious dessert.

Don’t forget to blind bake your pastry! 

Tarts with a liquid filling often require the pastry base to be blind baked, this is because the liquid filling can finish cooking before the pastry. Blind baking makes sure that the pastry base is fully cooked – helping you avoid the dreaded soggy bottom.

To blind bake your pastry, prick the base with a fork, place parchment paper on top of the pastry and fill the loose-bottomed tart tin with baking beans or uncooked rice – this stops the pastry from rising while it’s cooking.

Take care not to prick the base too much, otherwise, you’ll risk your filling leaking through the pastry. If you think you have pricked it too much, don’t panic! You can seal your base by brushing egg white over the pastry and placing it in the oven for a few minutes.

How to store your leftovers (if there are any!)

You can either pop your tart in the fridge or keep it in an air-tight container for up to two days – make sure the tart has cooled to room temperature before putting it in the fridge.

Can you freeze a treacle tart?

Yes, you can! Simply cook your tart and leave to cool, then cover it with foil and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you fancy a slice of your yummy tart, put it in a preheated oven until it’s warmed through and enjoy!

Want a twist on this British classic?

If you don’t want something a bit different, try out these recipes instead!

You can’t make treacle tart without Lyle’s Golden Syrup! 

Now you have all the information you need, it’s time to get stuck in! Make sure you grab some Lyle’s Golden Syrup before you start baking.

Everything You Need to Know About Treacle Sponge

Everything You Need to Know About Treacle Sponge

This nostalgic British pudding has been a staple for generations, but how do you make it? Well, we’ve got you covered! In this article, find out more about this classic pud and discover tips and tricks on how to make the perfect treacle sponge – with Lyle’s Golden Syrup of course!

What is a treacle sponge?

Often referred to as syrup sponge pudding, this is a classic British dessert that fills people with nostalgia – as it was a very popular school dinner.

Believe it or not, this dessert doesn’t typically contain treacle. It’s actually made with golden syrup – also known as light treacle – which is probably what led to the name ‘treacle sponge’.

Treacle sponge is a dessert that truly celebrates the delicious flavours of Lyle’s Golden Syrup. With golden syrup in the sponge mixture and extra in the pudding basin, luscious syrup oozes down the outside of the sponge when it’s baked and removed from the tin – the thought alone is enough to make your mouth water!

This light and fluffy sponge cake is best served hot and is the perfect pudding to warm you up on a cold winter’s day.

How do you cook syrup sponge pudding? 

A treacle sponge is traditionally steamed, giving this British staple its signature light and fluffy texture. Our syrup sponge pudding recipe clearly explains how to steam this delicious dessert.

After spooning the mixture into the basin and levelling the top, cut a circle of parchment paper that is around two times bigger than the pudding basin top and pleat the centre of the circle. Then place the parchment paper on top of the basin (ensuring the pleat is in the centre) and cover it with foil – making sure you pleat the centre of the foil too. The pleats in the parchment paper and foil allow the sponge to rise while baking.

Once you’ve done this, tie some string around the basin to make a handle. This will make it a lot easier to carefully remove the pudding from the saucepan when it’s cooked.

To steam the treacle sponge, put it on a heatproof dish that’s placed on the bottom of a big saucepan, fill the saucepan with boiling water and cover it with a lid to keep the steam in the pan. Placing the pudding on a heatproof dish keeps it off of direct heat, helping the sponge to cook evenly.

Take a look at our recipe to see the full instructions on how to make this tasty pudding!

3 mistakes to avoid when making this delightful pudding

Overmixing your pudding mixture

Overmixing can result in a dense and heavy sponge, rather than the light and fluffy texture we’re aiming for.

Not sealing the parchment paper and foil correctly

Don’t let your steam escape! You want to lock in the steam to achieve maximum fluffiness. 

Cooking too quickly

Steaming is a slow cooking method and rushing it could result in an unevenly cooked or undercooked pudding. So, remember when it comes to treacle sponge, patience is indeed a virtue!  

Top tips to help you make an incredible treacle sponge

 Make sure you have enough water to steam your puddings

We recommend adding enough boiling water into the saucepan to cover the bottom half of the pudding basin. But be sure to keep an eye on it and make sure the pan doesn’t boil dry, otherwise you’ll be left with underbaked puddings!

Try baking it in the microwave

Want a quick syrup sponge pudding? Bake it in the microwave on full power for four minutes, or until the sponge comes away from the sides and springs back when you touch it.

Spice up your sponge for a kick of flavour

Feeling adventurous? Add some ginger to your sponge mixture for a warming winter feel or add lemon zest for a citrus kick!

Try it with custard, cream or ice cream 

Our syrup sponge pudding is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with cream, custard or ice cream!

Reheating and storing your pudding

If you have any leftovers, let them cool to room temperature, cover and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat your treacle sponge, simply place a spoonful of Lyle’s golden syrup into a bowl, add your sponge and heat it until it’s warmed through. Adding some extra golden syrup will prevent the sponge pudding from drying out.

Grab some Lyle’s and get baking! 

Now you know everything you need to know about treacle sponge, it’s time to roll your sleeves up and get stuck in! Be sure to pick up some of our delicious golden syrup before you get started.

A Chocoholic Paradise: 5 Reasons Why You Should Make Chocolate Flapjacks

A Chocoholic Paradise: 5 Reasons Why You Should Make Chocolate Flapjacks

Craving a sweet treat that’ll satisfy your chocolate cravings? Look no further! Chocolate flapjacks are here to save the day. Whether you’re a flapjack lover or a certified chocoholic, adding chocolate to your flapjacks makes them even more scrumptious.

In this blog, explore the world of chocolate flapjacks and discover some handy tips and tricks and delightful chocolate flapjack recipes.

What makes chocolate flapjacks so special?

Their chocolatey goodness

The undeniable charm of chocolate flapjacks lies in their rich, chocolatey goodness. You have the freedom to choose your favourite chocolate – whether it’s white, dark or milk chocolate – to create a heavenly topping or add to your flapjack mixture.

Simplicity at its best

Making chocolate flapjacks is a breeze. The foundation is simple: unsalted butter, rolled oats, Lyle’s Golden Syrup, and of course, chocolate. It’s a fun and easy sweet treat to bake, and a great recipe to make at home with the kids.

The chewy satisfaction

The combination of oats and golden syrup in chocolate flapjacks creates a wonderfully soft and chewy texture. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and hearty goodness!

The perfect on-the-go snack

Flapjacks are the ideal snack for those on the move. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days, making them perfect for any occasion; whether you’re looking for a delicious lunchtime treat, something tasty to add to your picnic basket or the perfect TV and movie snack.

Their versatility 

While these sweet treats can be enjoyed on their own, they can also be customised to your heart’s content. Feel free to add your favourite ingredients – such as chopped nuts or dried fruit – to make your own unique flavour combination.

How to melt the chocolate

In the words of baking legend Mary Berry, “Chocolate melts in a child’s pocket”, which means it doesn’t take much effort, but one slip-up can send it south. Here’s your guide to effortlessly melting chocolate.

The best way to melt chocolate is using a bain-marie (also known as a water bath or double boiler). Begin by placing chunks of chocolate into a heatproof bowl. Then set this bowl in a saucepan with simmering water, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bowl. Stir patiently until your chocolate turns into velvety liquid perfection.

If you’re looking for a quicker alternative, you can use the microwave, but proceed with caution. Start by microwaving your chocolate in a heatproof bowl for 20 seconds, then stir. Repeat this process, checking and stirring your chocolate every 5-10 seconds until it’s melted.

Mastering the art of melted chocolate 

Explore these top tips to discover the secrets of creating silky-smooth melted chocolate.

Keep everything dry

Moisture and melting chocolate are a recipe for disaster. The sugar in the chocolate reacts with even the smallest amount of moisture, creating an unappetising lumpy sludge. To avoid this, make sure your hands, bowls and all your utensils are completely dry.

Chop up your chocolate

Chopping your chocolate into chunks not only speeds up the melting process, but it also helps it melt more evenly. You don’t have to be precise; just aim for similar-sized chunks or use chocolate chips instead.

Gentle heat is key

A higher heat doesn’t necessarily mean that your chocolate will melt quicker. Chocolate can burn very easily if exposed to high heat, so use a low, gentle heat and keep a watchful eye, especially with white chocolate as it’s more prone to burning.

Take your chocolate off the heat when it’s 80% melted

Once your chocolate is mostly liquid with a few remaining chunks, carefully remove it from the heat and continue to stir. The residual heat will melt the remaining chunks without risking burnt chocolate.

Irresistible chocolate flapjack recipes for you to try at home 

Now that you’re armed with these handy chocolate melting tips, here are some delectable chocolate flapjack recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Millionaire’s caramel flapjacks 

Experience the magic of millionaire’s shortbread in flapjack form. These fabulous flapjacks are generously topped with indulgent layers of caramel and chocolate.

Peanut butter flapjacks 

Elevate your flapjacks with a tantalising blend of melted chocolate and creamy peanut butter, resulting in a mouth-watering treat.

Triple chocolate flapjacks 

This recipe contains not one, not two, but THREE types of chocolate! Featuring cocoa powder, chocolate chips and a luscious chocolate topping, this recipe is every chocolate lover’s dream.

Mini chocolate flapjacks 

These delicious flapjacks are topped with a decadent layer of chocolate, making them a truly irresistible treat.

Chocolate chip and orange flapjacks

Indulge in the classic combination of chocolate and orange. These flapjacks balance the sweetness of golden syrup with the rich bitterness of dark chocolate and a zesty kick of orange. Feel free to use milk chocolate if you prefer.

Golden flapjacks 

For those who cherish the classics, our golden flapjack recipe features unsalted butter, Lyle’s Golden Syrup and rolled oats. You can easily transform these into chocolate flapjacks by adding chocolate chips or a melted chocolate topping.

Don’t forget Lyle’s Golden Syrup

So, there you have it – the wonderful world of chocolate flapjacks awaits your exploration. But before you embark on your flapjack adventure, make sure you stock up on Lyle’s Golden Syrup – the key ingredient in baking the perfect flapjack!

3 Flippin’ Fantastic Banana Pancake Recipes to Start Your Day With a Smile 

3 Flippin’ Fantastic Banana Pancake Recipes to Start Your Day With a Smile 

Say goodbye to ordinary pancakes and say hello to a breakfast bursting with flavour variety!

In this article, discover 3 of our most popular banana pancake recipes. Plus, uncover expert tips and tricks to help elevate your pancake creations to the next level of deliciousness.

The beauty of banana pancakes

Banana pancakes offer a tantalising twist on the classic pancake recipe, revealing a mouth-wateringly delightful fusion of flavours and textures.

Combining the comforting familiarity of pancakes with the luscious sweetness of ripe bananas, these delectable delights can be customised to suit your preferences, whether you’re mashing bananas into the batter for a rich banana essence or enhancing your pancakes with banana slices while they’re cooking to achieve delicious bursts of flavour in every bite.

Natural sweetness

What makes banana pancakes truly awesome is the natural sweetness and creaminess tripe bananas.

As you pour onto the griddle, the kitchen fills with the comforting aroma of bananas gently caramelising. The result is a stack of pancakes that boasts a soft, fluffy interior complemented by a golden, slightly crisp exterior.

A healthier option

This culinary masterpiece not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthier alternative. Bananas add vitamins, fibre, and natural sugars to your pancakes, making them a great choice for those seeking a delicious yet nutritious breakfast option.

Plenty of pairing potential 

When it comes to finding additional toppings for your banana pancakes, the possibilities are endless. You can go classic with Lyle’s Golden Syrup or honey, or get creative with toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, fresh berries or even a dollop of yoghurt.

Give these brilliant banana pancake recipes a try

Enough chit-chat, let’s get to the recipes! Here are 3 of our most-loved banana pancake recipes for you to try – let us know which you enjoyed most!

Banana and hazelnut sharing pancake

This delightful recipe combines the fluffiness of soufflé pancakes with the American-style pancake, perfect for sharing as a dessert for two.

Caramelised bananas in melted butter and Lyle’s Golden Syrup add a gooey sweetness, while a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts provides a delightful crunch.

Lyle’s dipped banana pancakes

Indulge in these delightful mini, sliced banana pancakes, where the scrumptious taste of pancakes embraces a creamy and irresistibly soft banana centre.

These petite delights are the perfect bite-sized treat, offering a burst of banana goodness in every mouthful.

3-ingredient banana pancakes

Discover the ultimate simplicity of these 3-ingredient banana pancakes, tailored for those hectic mornings or late-night cravings.

With just 3 essential ingredients and a straightforward 4-step process, these pancakes are a quick and easy delight to prepare. In just 5 minutes of prep time and 5 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a plateful of warm, golden-brown pancakes ready to eat.

5 top tips for making flippin’ fantastic banana pancakes

Choose ripe bananas

Opt for ripe bananas with brown speckles for the best natural sweetness and flavour in your pancakes.

Mash, don’t blend

When adding your bananas to the batter, mash them rather than blending to help them maintain their satisfying texture.

Watch the heat

Moderate heat is the sweet spot. Too high, and your pancakes may burn; too low, and they won’t cook through evenly.

Go easy on the batter

Don’t overmix the pancake batter as it can make your pancakes less fluffy. A few lumps in the batter are fine.

Patience is a virtue

Let your pancake batter rest for a few minutes before cooking to achieve that perfect fluffiness.

Don’t forget the golden syrup!

Enhance your banana pancakes with a drizzle of Lyle’s Golden Syrup, adding a rich, caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the natural banana flavour. It’s a match made in pancake heaven – trust us!