These soft and chewy air fryer flapjacks are a classic British bake made quicker and easier in the air fryer. Golden, buttery and packed with syrupy oats, they're perfect for Afternoon Tea, lunchboxes, or as an energy-boosting snack.

A Quick Look At The Recipe
✅ Recipe Name: Air Fryer Flapjacks
🕒 Ready In: Prep Time - 7 minutes, Cook Time - 18 minutes
👪 Serves: 16
🍽 Calories: 238 per bar
🥣 Main Ingredients: Rolled Oats, Butter, Light Brown Sugar, Demerara Sugar, Golden Syrup
📖 Dietary Info: Vegetarian, freezer-friendly
👌 Difficulty: Easy
Summarise & Save This Content On
If you've never made flapjacks in an air fryer before, you'll be surprised how straightforward it is. This easy air fryer flapjack recipe uses just four basic ingredients - golden syrup, butter, sugar and oats - and produces perfectly chewy flapjacks every time.
These air fryer flapjacks come together quickly, making them ideal for lunchboxes, an afternoon snack, or a simple bake to have on hand during the week. They're a firm favourite in our house, and cooking golden syrup flapjacks in the air fryer reduces the baking time compared to traditional oven baked flapjacks.
A shallow 20cm square tin fits perfectly in my Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, but the right size will depend on your model. In a round air fryer, a 20cm round sandwich tin usually works well. If you're using a dual drawer air fryer, a loaf tin or small rectangular baking dish is often more suitable.
Flexible silicone air fryer cake tins are another practical option, as they mould to the shape of the basket and make removal easy.
👩🍳 Love air fryer baking? Try my easy air fryer chocolate brownies or air fryer cherry Madeira cake next!

⭐Air Fryer Recipe eBook⭐
With easy-to-follow recipes & instructions, you'll be able to master the art of air fryer cooking in no time. Buy now for £2.99!
Jump to:
- A Quick Look At The Recipe
- Why make flapjacks in an air fryer?
- ✔️ Why you'll love this easy flapjack recipe!
- 🛒 Ingredient notes
- Need to substitute an ingredient?
- 📖 Variations
- 🔪 How to make flapjacks in air fryer
- Top Tips
- 🍴 Serving suggestions
- Storage
- ❓ Frequently asked questions
- Troubleshooting Guide
- 😋More air fryer recipes
- More flapjack recipes
- Recipe
- 💬 Comments
Why make flapjacks in an air fryer?
Air fryers circulate hot air in a compact space, meaning they preheat faster and cook more efficiently than a traditional oven. For traybakes like flapjacks, this results in beautifully golden edges and a soft, chewy centre.
They're especially useful during warmer months when you don't want the oven on, or when baking a smaller quantity.
✔️ Why you'll love this easy flapjack recipe!
- Quick and easy air fryer recipe - made with just four simple ingredients, these air fryer flapjacks are faster to bake than traditional oven-baked flapjacks.
- Classic golden syrup flavour - golden syrup creates that signature sweet, caramel flavour and soft, chewy oat texture.
- Easy to customise - add nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips or swap the syrup for honey or maple syrup.
- Perfect for lunchboxes - these chewy oat bars are sturdy, filling and ideal for snacks on the go.
- Great for batch baking - store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
This recipe is amazing. I got 3 trays out of one batch as I have a Ninja dual air fryer. These were all gone within 24hrs which means I now have to make more...⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Kirsty
🛒 Ingredient notes

A full ingredients list along with Metric and US Customary measurements, can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
Porridge Oats (Rolled Oats) - use regular rolled oats or quick-cook oats for a softer texture. Avoid jumbo oats, as they don't absorb the butter mixture well. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
Butter - binds the flapjacks and gives them a rich flavour. Unsalted is recommended to control salt content, but salted butter works if needed. For a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
Golden Syrup - provides the classic sweet, caramel-like taste. Can be substituted with honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that the texture and flavour may change slightly.
Sugar (Light Brown Sugar + Demerara Sugar) - Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch. You can use just one type of sugar or swap with granulated sugar (white sugar) or caster sugar (superfine sugar).
Vanilla Extract - Enhances the flavour of the flapjacks. Optional, or can be substituted with ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract for a different twist.
Need to substitute an ingredient?
Have an allergy or dietary preference? Let AI customise the recipe for you.
📖 Variations
- Add some chopped nuts, dried fruit or chocolate chips to the mixture before baking for some extra flavour and texture.
- Swap out the golden syrup for honey or maple syrup for a different flavour. You might also like to try my maple syrup flapjacks in the air fryer (just reduce the cooking time by 5 minutes).
- If you're feeling adventurous, try adding in some spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Swap half the butter for peanut butter or nut butter for a nutty taste.
- Add chopped apple to the mixture for a warm and comforting Autumn bake. You could also try my apple flapjacks in the air fryer (reducing the cooking time by 5 minutes).
- For a really indulgent treat, try my Biscoff flapjacks in the air fryer (reducing the baking time by 5 minutes).
- Transform them into granola bars by adding seeds such as pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds, as well as chopped dried apricots and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle melted chocolate on them once baked.
🔪 How to make flapjacks in air fryer
One: Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F) and set the timer for 20 minutes. Grease and line a suitable baking tin with nonstick baking paper. I use a 20cm (8") square tin in my air fryer, but you may need to use a different size tin.
Two: In a large saucepan, melt the butter, sugars and golden syrup together on a low heat, mixing with a wooden spoon to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Three: Stir in the oats and vanilla extract.
Four: Spoon the flapjack mixture into the prepared tin and press down firmly with the back of a spoon. Air fry for 16-20 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip - the flapjack will still look soft when you take it out of the air fryer but it will firm up on cooling.
Five: Allow the flapjack to cool in the tin for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight), before cutting them into squares with a sharp knife.
Would you like to save this?
This site is protected by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Top Tips
- Line your tin - grease and line your baking tin with non-stick parchment paper (baking paper) to prevent sticking. Silicone air fryer tins work well too.
- Use the right pan - melt the butter, sugars, and golden syrup in a large, heavy-based non-stick saucepan. It should be big enough to stir in the oats easily.
- Press firmly - use the back of a spoon or spatula to press the oat mixture firmly into the lined tin. Compacting the mixture ensures the flapjacks hold together and don't crumble.
- Check texture before cutting - leave the flapjacks to cool completely in the tin before slicing into bars. This helps them set and retain their chewy texture.
- Speed up cooling if needed - pop the tin in the fridge to cool faster, especially if you're short on time.
- Don't overbake - air fryer baking times can vary. The edges should be golden and the centre slightly soft - flapjacks firm up as they cool.
- Choose the right oats - rolled oats give the classic chewy texture; quick-cook oats create a softer flapjack. Avoid jumbo oats, as they don't absorb the syrup mixture well.
🍴 Serving suggestions
These air fryer flapjacks are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a simple Afternoon Tea treat (alongside other classic bakes such as air fryer sausage rolls, cherry scones, fruit scones, and chocolate tiffin), or slice into bars for school lunchboxes and work snacks.
Crumble over Greek yoghurt with fresh fruit for breakfast, drizzle with chocolate for a sweet twist, or enjoy warm with custard or ice cream for dessert.
They're also ideal for picnics, as they keep well and are easy to transport.

Storage
Store - in an airtight container or cake tin at room temperature for up to a week.
Freeze - place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep for up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. They can also be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their chewy texture.

❓ Frequently asked questions
Yes, just increase the baking time by 5 minutes.
Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter but it may affect the flavour and texture of the flapjacks.
Yes, you can use vegan butter and maple syrup instead of butter and golden syrup.
Honey can be used as a substitute for golden syrup in this recipe, but keep in mind that the flavour and texture may be slightly different.
Cook for 16-20 minutes at 160°C (320°F).
Choosing the right oats makes a noticeable difference to the texture of your flapjacks, particularly when making air fryer flapjacks.
Rolled Porridge Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats) - Best Choice!
Rolled oats are the best option for traditional British flapjacks. They absorb the melted butter and golden syrup mixture evenly, creating that classic soft and chewy texture. They also hold together well, making them ideal for both oven baking and flapjacks in an air fryer.
Quick Oats (Quick-Cooking Oats)
Quick oats can be used if that's what you have, but they produce a softer, more compact texture. The finished flapjacks may be slightly less chewy and more dense.
Jumbo Oats - Not Recommended
Jumbo oats don't absorb the syrup mixture as effectively, which can lead to crumbly or uneven flapjacks. They also create a looser structure, making the bars harder to slice neatly.
Gluten-Free Oats
If you need gluten-free flapjacks, use certified gluten-free rolled oats. The texture will be very similar to standard rolled oats.
In short, for the best chewy air fryer flapjacks, standard rolled porridge oats are the most reliable choice.
Troubleshooting Guide
Problem: Why are my flapjacks crumbly?
Fix: The mixture may not have been pressed firmly enough into the tin, or they were sliced while still warm. Always compact the oat mixture well before air frying and allow the flapjacks to cool completely in the tin before cutting. Crumbly air fryer flapjacks can also be caused by too little golden syrup or too many dry add-ins.
Problem: Why are my air fryer flapjacks too hard or crunchy?
Fix: They've likely been overbaked or cooked at too high a temperature. Air fryer baking is quicker than oven baking, so check a few minutes early. The centre should still feel slightly soft when removed, as flapjacks firm up while cooling.
Problem: Why are my flapjacks undercooked in the middle?
Fix: If the centre is very wet or raw, return the tin to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at a time. Make sure you're cooking at 160-170°C and not overcrowding the basket, as proper air circulation is essential for evenly cooked flapjacks in an air fryer.
Problem: Why did my flapjacks stick to the tin?
Fix: Grease and line your baking tin with parchment (baking paper), leaving some overhang for easy lifting. Silicone air fryer cake tins can also help prevent sticking and make removal easier.
Problem: Why are my flapjacks falling apart after baking?
Fix: They may not have cooled long enough to set properly. Flapjacks need time for the butter and syrup to firm up. Leave them in the tin until completely cool - chilling in the fridge can help speed up the process.
Problem: Why are my flapjacks dry?
Fix: This can happen if they were slightly overbaked, if too much sugar was used, or if jumbo oats were substituted. Stick to rolled porridge oats for the best chewy air fryer flapjack texture and avoid extending the cooking time unnecessarily.
😋More air fryer recipes
- Air Fryer Creme Egg Croissant
- Air Fryer Rock Cakes
- Air Fryer Mini Egg Dessert Pots
- Air Fryer French Toast
- Air Fryer Baked Apples
- Air Fryer Scones
- Air Fryer Brownies
- Air Fryer Apple Crumble
- Air Fryer Banana Bread
- Air Fryer Baked Oats
More flapjack recipes

Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter to stay up to date with what's cooking in the Effortless Foodie kitchen!
Recipe
Easy Air Fryer Flapjacks
Would you like to save this?
This site is protected by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Equipment
- Large Saucepan
Ingredients
- 225 g Butter
- 100 g Demerara Sugar
- 100 g Light Brown Sugar
- 5 tablespoon Golden Syrup or use honey
- 360 g Oats rolled porridge oats
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F) and set the timer for 20 minutes. Grease and line a suitable baking tin with nonstick baking paper. I use a 20cm (8") square tin in my air fryer, but you may need to use a different size tin.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter, sugars and golden syrup together on a low heat, mixing with a wooden spoon to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.225 g Butter, 100 g Demerara Sugar, 100 g Light Brown Sugar, 5 tablespoon Golden Syrup
- Stir in the oats and vanilla extract.360 g Oats, 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Spoon the flapjack mixture into the prepared tin and press down firmly with the back of a spoon. Air fry for 16-20 minutes.💡 Pro Tip - the flapjack will still look soft when you take it out of the air fryer but it will firm up on cooling.
- Allow the flapjack to cool in the tin for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight), before cutting them into squares with a sharp knife.
Video
Notes
- Air fryer models vary. Cooking times for air fryer flapjacks may differ slightly depending on your model and basket size. Check from 15 minutes onwards - the edges should be golden and the centre slightly soft.
- Flapjacks firm up as they cool. They may look underdone when removed from the air fryer, but will set as the butter and syrup cool. Leave to cool completely before slicing.
- Press the mixture firmly. Compacting the oats well in the tin helps prevent crumbly flapjacks.
- Tin size matters. A shallow 20cm square tin works well in a Ninja Foodi. If using a smaller tin, the flapjacks will be thicker and may need 2-3 extra minutes.
- Oats choice affects texture. Rolled porridge oats (US: old-fashioned oats) give the best chewy texture. Quick oats create a softer flapjack. Avoid jumbo oats.
- Substitutions. Golden syrup can be replaced with honey or maple syrup, though flavour and texture will vary slightly.
- Storage. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Info

⭐Air Fryer Recipe eBook⭐
With easy-to-follow recipes & instructions, you'll be able to master the art of air fryer cooking in no time. Buy now for £2.99!











Kirsty Harvey says
This recipe is amazing I got 3 tray out of one batch as I have a ninja dual. These were all gone within 24hrs which means I now have to make more lol
Harini Vino says
Wow! this recipe is super yummy and looks delicious. Thanks for this wonderful recipe.
Kushigalu says
I never knew you could make such delicious bars in the air fryer. Thanks for the recipe.
Ieva says
We make flapjacks every single week and take them to work as a snack, but this was the first time I made them in an air fryer. Your recipe truly works (we added some dried apricots too)! Great texture!
nancy says
tasty oat bars - i couldn't believe i could make flapjacks in the air fryer. it came together in no time!
Sara Welch says
Enjoyed these for breakfast this morning and started my day off right! Easy and delicious; another great recipe for my air fryer, indeed!
Diana Reis says
These are delicious and super easy to do in the air fryer. I definitely thought these were something different as an American, but it was a happy accident to find this delicious recipe.
PETER JACKSON says
Can I use silicone moulds instead of backing tins TIA