Julie Goodwin's Golden Syrup Slice: A Nostalgic Aussie Dessert Recipe
Julie Goodwin's Golden Syrup Slice Recipe

When it comes to evoking nostalgic Australian flavours, few ingredients can match the sweet, smooth richness of golden syrup. This timeless dessert showcases that iconic taste in a simple yet utterly satisfying treat.

Julie Goodwin's Classic Creation

Beloved Aussie cook, author, and media personality Julie Goodwin made a special appearance on the Sunrise program on Thursday. She walked viewers through the steps to create this delicious after-dinner snack, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Golden Syrup Slice Recipe

This recipe yields approximately 12 generous pieces, with a total preparation and cooking time of around 40 minutes. It's an ideal bake for morning tea, school lunches, or a sweet weekend treat.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 175 grams of butter, chopped
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) of caster sugar
  • 1/4 cup of golden syrup
  • 1 large egg
  • 2/3 cup (100 grams) of sultanas
  • 1 cup (100 grams) of pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups (225 grams) of self-raising flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Step-by-Step Method

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C fan-forced. This ensures even baking and a perfect golden finish.
  2. Grease and line the base and sides of a small slice pan (approximately 16 x 26 centimetres base measurement) with non-stick baking paper. This makes removal easy and prevents sticking.
  3. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped butter, caster sugar, and golden syrup. Heat on HIGH for 40 seconds, then in 10-second bursts if necessary, until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Add the egg to the warm mixture and whisk thoroughly to combine, creating a rich, cohesive base.
  5. Stir in the sultanas, toasted pecans, self-raising flour, and salt. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated and a thick batter forms.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
  7. Allow the slice to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before carefully lifting it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
  8. Once fully cooled, cut into pieces and store in an airtight container in your cupboard. It will keep well for several days, making it a convenient make-ahead treat.

Julie's Pro Tip for Extra Zest

For an optional flavour enhancement, Julie suggests drizzling the slice with a thin lemon icing. Simply combine 1 cup (160 grams) of sifted icing sugar with 1 1/2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, stirring until smooth. This adds a delightful citrus note that complements the sweetness of the golden syrup perfectly.

This Golden Syrup Slice is more than just a recipe; it's a taste of Australian culinary heritage, brought to life by one of the country's most trusted home cooks. Whether enjoyed plain or with the lemony twist, it's sure to become a favourite in any household.