Crunchies (A South African Classic)

These golden beauties are a perfect blend of crispy and chewy, making them an all-time favorite in our home.

Perfect with a cup of tea. Simple pantry ingredients, no fuss, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients

• 1 cup flour

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup desiccated coconut

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 125 g butter

• 2 tablespoons golden syrup

• 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

• 2 tablespoons boiling water

Method

1. Preheat & prepare Preheat the oven to 180°C.Line a baking tray with baking paper or grease lightly.

2. Mix the dry ingredients In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, coconut, and brown sugar. Mix well to break up any lumps.

3. Melt the butter mixture In a small saucepan, gently melt the butter and golden syrup together over low heat.

4. Activate the bicarb Remove the butter mixture from the heat. Stir the bicarbonate of soda into the boiling water, then immediately add it to the butter mixture. It will foam slightly.

5. Combine Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well combined.

6. Bake Press the mixture evenly into the prepared tray. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown.

7. Cool & cut Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Let cool completely to firm up, they’ll be chewy but hold their shape beautifully.

Notes & Tips

• For extra chew, slightly underbake.

• For crispier crunchies, bake a few minutes longer.

• These freeze well and keep for several days in an airtight container.