Peanut Butter and Jelly Flapjack | Gluten, Dairy Free and Vegan

Gluten Free, Dairy Free and Vegan! Meet the latest bake I've been dying to share with you guys. A little spin on the classic pairing of Peanut Butter and Jelly. Wanting something to bake in between preparing the Sunday Roast I stumbled across a simple three ingredient flapjack on Deliciously Ella's Instagram Page (for reference, I also subscribe to her App, buy her products and own the recipe books). 

At first I was a little apprehensive how just three ingredients would provide the buttery texture, a traditional oat flapjack must boast. Armed with an alarming supersized tub of Pip & Nut peanut butter, I decided to persevere and give it a whirl. Ella's recipe originally uses Date Syrup, however whilst my kitchen cupboards are fit to burst, this is one ingredient I do not have. Swapping for Maple Syrup, Golden Syrup or Honey works just as well. 

To add a little twist to the recipe and discovering a fresh jar of Blackcurrant preserve whilst locating the Maple Syrup, I decided to sandwich a layer for a sweet surprise, just incase the bars weren't moreish enough. I then decided to make them a little extra with a smooth layer or dark chocolate, finished with a dash of pink Himalayan salt and coconut, which is undeniably, a match made in heaven.

Ingredients -

180g Gluten Free Porridge Oats 

160g Smooth Peanut Butter (I used Pip and Nut)

130g Maple/Golden Syrup - Either will work

A few spoons of Jam (I used Blackcurrant, as this is my favourite)

75g Dark Chocolate (I used Lindt Dark with Sea Salt - again, my absolute favourite)

Sprinkling of Desiccated Coconut 

Method -

In a saucepan, gently simmer your peanut butter and syrup until both are combined smoothly. 

Now, remove from the heat and stir your oats into the molten mixture. 

In a lined loaf tin, add half your oat mixture, before smoothing out and pressing firmly down. Then add your spoonfuls of jam, before topping with the other half of your oat mixture before smoothing and packing down gently. 

Then you're ready to bake for around 12-15 minutes at 180C. Once your oats look slightly golden, around the edges, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly in the tin.

Once your flapjack has cooled down considerably, melt your chocolate. When melted, pour over and smooth with a flat knife. Next, sprinkle over desiccated coconut and a pinch of salt. 

Place into the fridge, to leave it to set. Once set, slice into bars and you have yourself the perfect snack OR grab and go breakfast.

I'd love to hear what you've been baking? I can't wait to start baking more seasonal themed treats. With the weather being miserable, there's no better way to spend lockdown than, in a warm kitchen, Christmas tunes blasting out & winter spices filling the air. Lucy xx

Chocolate Chip Muffins with Creative Nature | Gluten + Dairy Free

There's no better way to spend a lazy Sunday than with a spot of baking. Last weekend I decided to give the Creative Nature Chocolate Chip Muffin Mix a go, I'd had it lying around for a few weeks after spotting them whilst out of town. Since picking up the mix, I've noticed them appear in Sainsbury's and Aldi locally, typical. Creative Nature pride themselves on creating products that are healthy and tasty, using the highest quality of ingredients, all whilst being Gluten, Dairy, Nut and Sweetener Free. They're actually free from 14 Allergens. I've been a fond fan of their snack bars (mainly the Goji) - renamed as the Bursting Berry Blend Oatie Bar for a few years.

With 8 mixes to pick from (online), in-store there were only three, I'd opted for the Chocolate Chip Muffin Mix, growing up if I were to have a cheat baking day with Mum, it would always be the Green's Chocolate Muffin Kit. If Chocolate Chip Muffins aren't your jam, there's banana bread, pancakes, carrot, corn bread, chia + mulberry muffins, brownie and chocolate cake mixes to opt for instead. All mixes have easy to follow steps, with little extra ingredients needed. They also come with two sets of instructions, if you prefer to make them completely vegan, over just using dairy alternatives. Whilst my diet is dairy + gluten free, I still include eggs. 

To whip up your batch of chocolate chip muffins, simply add 100g of dairy free spread, 2 eggs, 2 tbsp of water and a splash of vanilla extract. Once mixed together, spoon into 7 Muffin Cases and Bake for 20-25 minutes at 180C. You'll know they're done when they're delightfully golden and your family scoff the lot - I say family, Dad definitely ended up having them in his lunch box every day. That cheeky grin when he spotted one had been smuggled into his box each day...

Now, the Muffin Mix didn't create muffins quite like the nostalgic Green's Muffin Mix, however Creative Natures Mixes are definitely the best FREE FROM mixes I've used - especially for my non-allergen Dad to love them so much. The ingredients in the mixes, again like their other products are of high-quality with the use of Brown Rice Flour, Unrefined Cane Sugar, Flaxseed, Coconut Oil and Himalayan Salt. I opted to throw in some leftover Blueberries and Cinnamon, to make the muffins a little extra and seasonal. 

You could easily add extra chocolate or some coconut flakes. I like that the mixes make a smaller amount, to ensure the goods are eaten whilst they'e at their best. At £3.99, they're worth picking up if you're looking for a quick, allergy free bake though I'll most likely wait until they're on offer again.

If you've tried any of the Creative Nature Baking Mixes I'd love to hear your recommendations. I know lots love the banana bread mix - if we can face anymore Banana Bread Baking, in Lock Down 2.0...

Lucy xx

Five Books to Read in Lock Down 2.0 | Lucyy Writes

Since my last blog post where I shared five books I'd recently enjoyed reading, I've struggled to find time to read or feel inclined to read. With good ole Boris taking us into Lock Down 2.0, being one reason I have more time on my hands, I'm determined to use the time wisely, by creating more time for myself and tackle the ever growing pile of books. If you're looking for a new book to fill your time, I've selected a mix of fiction, non-fiction as well as a couple fit for Children to settle down with.

Open, Why Asking for Help Can Save Your Life - Frankie Bridge

As we enter our second Lock Down, there's no book I'd recommend more than Open by Frankie Bridge. I pre-ordered this, having always looked up to Frankie - for her honesty and support for Mental Health. Throughout the book, I could relate to so much of Frankie's struggles and experiences over the years. Despite tackling difficult topics, the book remains positive and shares how passionate Frankie is for everyone to open up, to get the support they need. A firm reminder, that you are not the only one out there to feel the way you do. To experience the hardships you may have, or are going through. I read this within a day, unable to put it down - before passing onto my Mum, who again read it just as quickly.

Love Frankie - Jacqueline Wilson

Who else grew up reading every Jacqueline Wilson book? Even at the age of 26 I'll still keep an eye out for her new releases. Whilst food shopping, I noticed Love Frankie had been released. Needing something to ease me back into reading, I grabbed and finished over a weekend. Targeted at older readers, Love Frankie sees Jacqueline tackle teenage difficulties such as divorced parents, fighting siblings, school bullies and her Mum diagnosed with MS. However on top of this Frankie has fallen in love with her best friend. Surprisingly, Jacqueline has chosen to tackle same-sex relationships for the first time, with Frankie falling for Sally. I honestly think it's a brilliant idea, to not only tackle first-love but Frankie's confusion of her sexuality too.

Fletcher and The Falling Leaves - Julia Rawlinson*

I was recently sent a copy of Fletcher and The Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson*, the autumn tale of a charming children's book series, featuring a dear fox named Fletcher. The story focuses on Fletchers concern as leaves start to fall from his favourite tree. Each page shares Fletchers curiosity and misunderstanding of thinking something is drastically wrong as nature transitions from late autumn to early winter. Both adult and child will enjoy gathering around this beautifully illustrated picture book, as the evenings draw in to learn about the changing seasons upon us. This book really is truly special, reminding me of 'The Seasons in Fern Hollow' I cherished, throughout my childhood.

The New Girl - Nicola Davies*

As I write this blog post, it's World Mental Health Day. Whilst this may be another children's picture book, I couldn't not share this extraordinary tale. The New Girl tackles a multitude of issues, from bullying, diversity, acceptance and friendships. The teaming of simple wording and beautiful illustrations creates a heartwarming tale, that every child whether returning to school after their extended break OR making their first step into education can learn from. We start off in a hostile classroom, with a young girl being excluded for being different before attitudes towards her transform as she gains a voice, acceptance and friendship.

A Mrs Miracle Christmas - Debbie Macomber

If you're in the search for a festive read Debbie Macomber is your go to author, her festive novels never disappoint. Last year I grabbed a copy of A Mrs Miracle Christmas, the latest in the Mrs Miracle series from Debbie - of which have been adapted into films, usually shown on Christmas 24 and Channel 5 each year. I've lost count how many times I've watched the films growing up, always surprised only myself and family know of them. In the latest tale, Mrs Miracle arrives at the door of couple Laurel and Zach who have been praying for a baby. They're also carers for Laurel's Grandmother, Helen. Debbie teams miracles, magic and emotion for the perfect cosy, Christmas read.

Comment below or find me on Instagram, to share your recommendations on what I should read next.

Five Books to Read Next | Lucyy Writes

At the start of 2020 I set myself a goal to read 30 books before the end of the year, doing so by downloading the Good Reads app. At the time of publishing this post I've already smashed this, by starting my 42nd Book, the only positive to come out of the current pandemic. The app has allowed me to branch out, I've read all types of genres from my usual 'chic-flic' - romance books & thrillers, to auto-biographies, mental health and a few childhood classics. Some weeks I make my way through several, others I barely touch a book. I flit between reading books via my kindle as well as physical, I still prefer having the feel and smell of a physical book....even if I'm running out of storage space. To celebrate national read a book day, I thought I'd share my top recent picks.

1. Where The Crawdads Sing - Delia Owens

I was pleasantly surprised with Where The Crawdads Sing, having been recommended by many on instagram I'd decided it probably wasn't for me. However, whilst in Waterstones I gave in to the guy serving me who assured me it really was worth giving a chance. Thank goodness I did. Where The Crawdads Sing tells the tale of the 'Marsh Girl', set back in 1969 in a small town on the North Carolina Coast. The 'coming of age' tale, brings light to the natural world, the strength of Kya Clark as well as a small town murder. This novel  delivers one powerful punch.

2. Before The Coffee Gets Cold - Toshikazu Kawaguchi

Whilst out shopping on my Birthday in July, I popped into Waterstones to escape the chaos of Britains lack of understanding to Social Distancing. Whilst browsing the store I came across the remaining copy of Before The Coffee Gets Cold, the title alone appealing to any fellow caffeine fan, not to mention the beautifully designed cover. Before The Coffee Gets Cold is based in a back alley cafe in Tokyo. Having brewed coffee for hundreds of years, the cafe has one unique experience for its customers....the ability to go back in time. The short tale sees us come across four individuals who wish to take advantage of the cafe's quirk. However they soon learn it's not as simple as it seems. Firstly they can only travel back in time from one particular seat, they cannot leave the cafe and most importantly....they must return back to the present day before the coffee gets cold. I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel that arrives later this month.

3. TheAuthenticity Project - Claire Pooley

In the midst of these weird times, I came across Claire Pooley's latest novel. At the time I hadn't seen this book receive much press, however since completing way back in June, the uplifting tale of six strangers brought together via a green notebook seems to have gathered plenty. Based in a local cafe, The authenticity Project sees a 79 year old artist leave behind the notebook with the question 'What would happen if you shared the truth?' Here we embark on six individuals adding their own answer and tales to the notebook, becoming entwined into each others lives through their quirky traits, humour and heartbreaking tales.

4. Here and Now - Santa Montefiore

I'll be honest, this was my first book from Santa Montefiore, having always placed her books back onto the shelf once discovering that not only do they seem to all use a small font, but also seem to be very thick. Does anyone else judge a book by the  font? I suppose this is where Kindles come into play. However; another supermarket find was Here and Now, the beautifully designed cover instantly attracted me before I read the blurb. Here and Now tackles the heartbreaking journey of Marigold and her family, as they deal with the upheaval of their daughters moving back home, cohabitating with the Mother-in-Law and kind hearted wife/mother Marigold see her memory decline to Dementia. Santa tackles the difficult subject beautifully, I'm so glad I branched out. I've since passed this book onto my Mum, who can't put it down despite being a firm Kindler and usually opposed to Hardbacks. 

5. While You Were Reading - Ali Berg & Michelle Kaius

Whilst completing the weekly food shop in Sainsbury's I always end up diverting to the book aisle. Our local always seems to have the most frequently updated and varying contents to browse. I usually end up coming away with a couple in the trolley and a few more added to my wish list. It was the bright cover that attracted me to this one in particular, not realising straight away I had their first novel The Book Ninja on my 'Want to Read' List. Without giving away too much, the new romance novel sees Bea relocate after destroying her best friends wedding, where she finds a second-hand book inscribed with notes, leading her into a tangled love-quad. 

Comment below or find me on Instagram, to share your recommendations on what I should read next. Currently Reading; Richard Osman - The Thursday Murder Club. Lucy x

Five Products For Self-Care // Lucyy Writes

Now is the time to practice self care more than ever. Whether you’ve been working through the pandemic, lost your routine or have just started back, you‘ll agree that life has changed - with frustration, anxiety and more time on our hands. Below are five products to introduce some calm back into your lives OR that I’ve personally found of great help throughout the past few months.

Lush Shower Bombs | in Comfort, Not so Sleepy and Sleepy £2.75 each HERE

I've mentioned and featured Lush Shower Bombs on Lucyy Writes and my social media many times before. A lot of the time I really can't be bothered to run a bath OR feel that I'd enjoy/relax enough once in there. I always turn to a trusty Shower Bomb when needing to clear my head, after a stressful day OR times when I'm feeling anxious. Lush have three shower bombs on offer, all of which I'm fond of. Not so Sleepy is a truly uplifting, energising scent, whilst as Sleepy suggests, completes their relaxing range and provides a gentle scent before a tough day/after a hard day. Comfort (the little pink bomb) of the trio, will be popular for all times of day, if you're a fan of The Comforter bubble bar, you'll love the sweet, huggable scent. 

Whittard of Chelsea | Dream Time Infusion + Sweet Dreams Bundle £25 HERE

One of my birthday gifts from my parents this year were a huge box of goodies from Whittard's. As someone who finds in difficult to sleep and lie in - even on a day off, I'll still wake at the crack of dawn. To ease me into a better slumber, Mum decided to order the Dream Time Infusion via the Sweet Dreams Bundle on their website. This came with their famous Pao Infusion Mug. The Dream Time infusion is different to regular sleep themed teas, they usually focus around chamomile and can taste quite floral based. However this infusion is SO different to my regular Pukka Night Time teas. Featuring velvety apricot and creamy honey and vanilla. I also received further loose teas, cold brew tea bags and hot chocolate. Fabulous pick as always Jan. If you're finding it hard to unwind or relax during these difficult times, I'd recommend treating yourself to this little bundle - especially if you've never managed to get onboard with Night Time infusions before.

Simple Skincare Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask in Illuminating or Brightening £2.99 HERE

I'm an avid fan of sheet masks and under eye masks, having a large stash of them for regular pampering throughout the week. Working with computer screens every day I find my eyes get tired easily. Team this with Hay-fever season and I can't get enough of under eye masks - especially if you can't be bothered to settle for an entire facial sheet mask. Simple Sheet Masks are some of my favourite, so I'd obviously be a fan of their Under-Eye variety too. These are currently on offer in Boots + Superdrug for a lot less than their RRP - even better if you've got points to redeem like I had. If you're looking for a quick, beauty pamper, the refreshing eye masks are worth every penny.

Boots Botanics Pillow Mist in Peaceful Night  £6 HERE

I've tried the majority of Pillow Mists on the market, covering all budgets however I'm pleasantly surprised with this recent find in Boots, from their Botanics line. A lot of sprays can be very weak, sweet OR too floral based. However Boots have nailed this, the perfect strength to spritz your bedding and room with, the soothing blend of lavender and sweet marjoram eases you into a relaxed state.

High Kind* CBD Oral Drops in Tranquil 5% £27.99 HERE

An item I've been introduced to recently was CBD Oral Drops. I've always been intrigued when in Holland And Barrett where I've seen alternative brands being marketed. This past Father's Day I actually purchased my Dad CBD infused chocolate and a CBD Muscle Balm. Both went down well with my Dad and were a conversation starter. When High Kind got in touch I couldn't turn down their offer to send across one of their Oral Drops. High Kind CBD Oils use the cleanest extraction and distillation methods to bring flavour and palpable relaxing effects in every single drop. They have three flavours to decide from, with Energise being citrus based, Focus - Pine and Tranquil - Lavender. There are no nasty additives to the oils, they are completely free from Artificial flavours, colours, preservatives, lactose, yeast AND gluten. The Tranquil variety are designed to use an hour before bed, to enhance rest and recovery (with a guidance of 10-20 drops). Personally the taste is pretty strong - especially when you combine CBD with Lavender, even in squash you can taste, half the amount of drops. With this in mind, you may prefer the Citrus based Energy variety. If you or someone you know finds CBD a great help whether it be oral based or in beauty products, introduce them to the British Brand, High Kind where you'll find variety of products and strengths. 

I’d love to hear how you’ve been getting through these weird, unsettling times. Leave a comment or find me on social media! Of course I’ve love to have included some books - however that’s a whole post of its own. Take Care, Lucy xx

Disclaimer: products * sent for review purpose

What I Had For My Birthday 2020 | Lucyy Writes

It wouldn't be right to start posting without sharing a What I Had For My Birthday, especially when we're in a pandemic. I turned another year older on July 15th. I still suffer with Birthday Blues, due to seemingly focusing on milestones set in my head (thanks to society). Should I be settled? Should I own property by now? Children? Career? When it reality, it doesn't matter what stage I'm at, I'm actively saving into two accounts - to own property, I haven't met Mr Right yet but who cares, I love my own company! And lastly, I should be thankful to have a job (when lots have lost their routine Or job entirely) as well as my family having a mutual understanding that a Miniature Sausage Dog will come before a Mini Lucy.

Despite having a birthday in the pandemic, I'm lucky that I had the option for more freedom when a lot haven't earlier in the year. I had the day off work, hit the shops with my Mumma for some much needed quality time together. We treated ourselves with plenty of new purchases, a M&S Picnic Lunch and a beautiful Chai Latte in Nero. 

Parents, Friends and Family really spoilt me - I'd even had early birthday presents too. The day started with the parents and dogs invading my room with gifts, cards and a beautiful floral arrangement delivered. I thought rather than sharing everything I'd share some of my favourite gifts/buys of the day.

Whittards Pao Infuser Mug with Loose Tea's, Hot Chocolate and Cold Brew Tea Bags | Breathe Magazine Subscription | Oliver Bonas Trinkets | Tropic Skincare | Marble Makeup Brushes | Perfume - Britney Bargains and Roger & Gallet | Books - Deliciously Ella, Before The Coffee Gets Cold, Stork and Where the Crawdads Sing | Clothing - Topshop + Primark | Lush Shower Bombs

What have you treated yourself to recently?

Birthday Cake Cookies // Featuring The Hummingbird Bakery

Last week saw myself celebrate turning another year older, keeping to the theme I thought I'd share one of my favourite Cookie recipes with you all. Over the years I've whipped up many of The Hummingbird Bakery recipes, though their Birthday Cake Cookies remain a firm favourite of our family and friends. If you have a birthday coming up, these buttery cookies bursting with colourful shards are the perfect way to celebrate OR perhaps, you just need a little pick up through these difficult times. 

Method and Ingredients:

Cookies

120g unsalted butter

200g caster sugar

2 large egg yolks

1 tsp butter extract (purchase online, or use vanilla)

190g plain flour 

½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

130g sprinkles

For the filling

115g unsalted butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

375g icing sugar

2-3 tbsp milk

80g sprinkles (to roll)

Pre-heat your oven to 175C and line 3 Baking Trays with greaseproof baking paper. Place the butter and sugar into a large bowl and beat by hand or with an electric mixer until light and creamy. Next, beat in your large egg yolks (one at a time) along with the vanilla/butter extract. Follow by folding in the plain flour, baking powder, salt and lastly, the sprinkles once a dough has been formed.

I find it best to refrigerate the dough, for at least a couple of hours, especially when the weather is so warm. Once chilled, weigh the dough into 30g balls and space out on greased baking trays, before baking for 9-12 minutes. You want the cookies to loose their shine and have firm tops. Leave the cookies to cool before transferring to a metal cooling rack. 

Whilst your cookies are cooling, if sandwiching together, you’ll need to prepare some frosting. Add all icing ingredients (apart from sprinkles) to your mixer and beat until smooth. Once made, take two cooled cookies, apply a generous amount of frosting to the flat side of one cookie (a piping bag is recommended), before popping on the second to create a sandwich. Next, pour the sprinkles into a dish, roll the exposed edges of frosting into the sprinkles and TADA, you have the ultimate birthday cake cookie.

Of course like all recipes on Lucyy Writes, you can easily make them gluten and dairy free. You’ll need to swap out the flour for gluten free (I use Dove Farm) and recommend using the Hard Baking Block by Stork (which is naturally dairy free). If you are coeliac, remember to read the ingredients on sprinkles as a lot still do contain wheat starch. I don’t use ‘butter extract’, I personally use vanilla extract as I always have that in. You also don’t need to sandwich the cookies together, they’re perfectly deliciously alone, to be dunked in a cuppa tea OR shared with a greedy Harry - whose little black nose always detects the freshly baked tray of cookies. You could also coat the bottom of the cookie in white chocolate.

Have you turned to baking or cooking during the pandemic? Lucy x

Recipe: The Hummingbird Bakery - Life is Sweet cookbook.

Stay at Home with Femme Luxe Finery / Lucyy Writes

With Lockdown still in place, we're all finding ourselves at home more, meaning we have little reason to throw on our regular wardrobe as the most exciting part of our week is a trip to the local shop/supermarket. So whilst we're all told to stay at home, there's only one thing we can do...take care of ourselves by expanding our Loungewear wardrobes, to ensure we can relax in comfort, whether we're binging on Netflix, watching childhood faves on Disney+, reaching for our Kindles OR if you're one of those lucky buggers wasting hours on a Nintendo Switch and Animal Crossing.

If you haven't heard of Femme Luxe Finery, they're an online UK based women's clothing store. They recently got in touch to see if I'd like to give some of their Loungewear Sets a feature - I couldn't not turn down the opportunity. They kindly sent over a selection of their items available, I couldn't wait to see how they felt and fitted. I'm all about the comfort now we're spending more time at home, especially after a long day or afternoon at work. Of course they have more than just loungewear over at Femme Luxe Finery, there's hundreds of items ranging from your basic, fashion favourites, to something a little more special as well as some serious statement pieces - most importantly none of them, causing you to break the bank. 

Khaki with White Stripe Lounge Wear Set - Lexi - £20.99

The first item I opted for is my favourite of the three received. This loungewear set consists of a cropped hoodie, featuring a contrasting stripe and matching cuffed, joggers. As soon as I started browsing the website, I knew I needed to have it - with SO many colours to decide from. I adore Khaki shades, they work really well with my pale skin and hair colour, though I was torn between the red set also. With the Red Lexi being sold out at the time, the decision was made for me and I'm over the moon with the khaki. Out of the three sets received, it's the most fitted. I can see myself happily wearing this around the house (and out, on our family dog walks). The material is so soft and comfy, but still has a little 'structure' for it to feel trendy over slouchy. 

Stone Off Shoulder Loungewear Set - Blake - £18.99

I've always been a fan of the off the shoulder look, when it comes to jumpers. Out of the three sets received, the Blake is the softest of the lot and the most roomiest. Jan absolutely adores this set and the shading. The relaxed fit cropped jumper, is teamed with cuffed bottom joggers, with elasticated waist. Whilst we are all stuck in lockdown, I know I'll be spending chilled summer evenings, out in the garden with the parents and fluffy siblings wearing this set and sipping Gin and Lemonade.

Khaki Crew Neck Cropped Loungewear Set - Lola - £18.99

Again, can you tell I'm a fan of Khaki? I wanted to have a set where I could easily split them - if I wanted to wear them with shorts OR team with a denim mini or ripped jeans. The Cropped Neck Jumper from the Lola set is perfect for the days where you want laid back, chilled vibes. Whilst it's another cropped lounge set, this jumper/top has an elasticated band for a flattering, fitted look but still plenty of lounge room. 

I can't wait to order myself the Ribbed, Belted Asia loungewear sets, even my own Mum (the ever so trendy Jan), is keen to place her own order - with Free Next Day Delivery and regular discounts running. Femme Luxe Finery have created a couple of new fans. You can bet once I finish work every day next week, I'll be chucking on a set and curling up with my Kindle.

How have you been spending your lockdown days? Lucy xx

Disclaimer: items sent for review purposes - no affiliated links. Stay at Home, Stay Safe.