Scottish Tablet Porridge Bars
A delightful fusion of two Scottish staples: the intensely sweet tablet and the wholesome porridge. These bars offer a chewy, sweet, and slightly oaty treat, perfect for breakfast on the go or an afternoon snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Rolled oats
- 125 g Butter
- 300 g Granulated sugar
- 1 can (397g) Sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Grease and line a 20cm square baking tin with parchment paper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the parchment paper overhangs the sides for easy removal. - 2
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over a medium heat.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Add the granulated sugar, condensed milk, and 2 tbsp of milk to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure all sugar is dissolved before proceeding. - 4
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Continue to boil for about 8-10 minutes, until it reaches the 'soft ball' stage (around 112°C/234°F on a sugar thermometer).
⏱️ 10 minutes💡 Tip: Stirring is crucial to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. - 5
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the rolled oats and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
💡 Tip: Work quickly as the mixture will start to set. - 6
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tin and spread it out evenly. You can use a spatula lightly greased with butter.
💡 Tip: Press down firmly to create compact bars. - 7
Allow the bars to cool completely in the tin. This can take a few hours at room temperature or speed up by placing it in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours.
⏱️ 2-4 hours - 8
Once firm, lift the slab out of the tin using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 bars using a sharp knife.
💡 Tip: For cleaner cuts, warm the knife slightly.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Tablet making requires patience; constant stirring is key to achieving the right texture.
- ✓If you don't have a sugar thermometer, test the 'soft ball' stage by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball.
- ✓Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) to the mixture with the oats.
- Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warming spice.
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate once cooled for an extra indulgence.