Nova Scotia Oatcakes Recipe

Nova Scotia oatcakes are a cherished Maritime classic—wholesome, lightly sweetened, and delightfully crisp. Perfect with tea, coffee, or a smear of butter and jam, these humble delights blend the best of cookies and biscuits into pure comfort. Whether enjoyed plain or enhanced with flavors like cinnamon or coconut, they offer a delicious taste of East Coast heritage.

Ingredients (Yields ~18 Oatcakes)

• 1½ cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup butter (cold and cubed)
• ¼ cup cold water (more if needed)
• Optional Add-ins:
  1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  ¼ cup shredded coconut
  Chocolate chips or dried fruit for a sweet twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.

3. Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work it into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Add Water

Drizzle in cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. It should hold when pressed, but not feel sticky.

5. Roll and Cut

Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into circles, squares, or traditional rectangles using a cookie cutter or knife.

6. Bake

Place the oatcakes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

7. Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack. Serve with butter, jam, cheese, or plain—these oatcakes are versatile and satisfying.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer Friendly: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp or reheat lightly in the oven.

Tips for the Perfect Nova Scotia Oatcakes

• For Extra Crispness: Roll dough thinner and bake closer to 15 minutes.
• Want Them Softer? Roll thicker and bake slightly less.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Add Flavor: Try mixing in spices, orange zest, or nuts for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: With jam and tea
• Savory: Topped with cheddar or smoked salmon
• Sweet: Dipped in chocolate or spread with peanut butter