Yes, most traditional oatcakes are vegan, as they are typically made from just oats, water, salt, and a fat like oil or vegan margarine. However, not all oatcakes are vegan—some commercial brands and traditional Scottish recipes include dairy butter or milk, so you always need to check the label. This article explains what oatcakes are, how to tell if a particular brand or recipe is vegan, and how to choose or make your own.
What Are Oatcakes?
Oatcakes are a type of flatbread or cracker made primarily from oats. They have been a staple in Scotland for centuries, where they were historically a simple, filling food for farmers and travelers. Traditional Scottish oatcakes are made with oatmeal, water, and a little salt, then cooked on a griddle (called a girdle in Scotland) or baked in an oven. They are dense, slightly nutty, and have a coarse texture that pairs well with cheese, jam, or soups.
Today, oatcakes are enjoyed across the UK and beyond, and they come in two main forms: the Scottish-style cracker (dry, crisp, and often round) and the Staffordshire oatcake (a softer, pancake-like version from the English Midlands). Both can be vegan, but the Staffordshire variety often contains milk and eggs, so it is less reliably plant-based.
Are Oatcakes Vegan by Default?
No, oatcakes are not vegan by default. The basic ingredients—oats, water, and salt—are vegan, but many recipes and commercial products add non-vegan ingredients. The most common non-vegan additions are:
- Butter – used in some traditional recipes for flavor and texture.
- Milk or buttermilk – sometimes used instead of water to enrich the dough.
- Eggs – more common in Staffordshire oatcakes, which are more like pancakes.
- Honey – occasionally used as a sweetener in flavored varieties.
So, while the core concept is vegan-friendly, you cannot assume every oatcake is. Always read the ingredient list.
How to Check if Oatcakes Are Vegan
When buying oatcakes, the easiest way to tell if they are vegan is to read the ingredients label. Look for obvious non-vegan items like butter, milk, whey, casein, eggs, or honey. Some brands also include a “suitable for vegans� badge on the front of the pack, but this is not always present.
If you are at a bakery or café, ask the staff directly. For homemade oatcakes, the recipe will tell you. If you are following a recipe that calls for butter, you can substitute it with a plant-based margarine or oil (like olive or sunflower oil) in equal amounts. If the recipe calls for milk, use any plant milk (soy, oat, almond) instead. For Staffordshire oatcakes, you can replace eggs with a commercial egg replacer or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Common Vegan Oatcake Brands
Many popular oatcake brands in the UK are accidentally vegan, meaning they do not contain animal products even if they are not marketed as vegan. Some examples include:
- Nairn’s – most of their oatcakes are vegan, but check the label as some varieties may contain milk.
- Stockan’s – traditional Scottish oatcakes, many are vegan.
- Paterson’s – some lines are vegan, but they also make butter-based versions.
- Walkers – known for shortbread, but their oatcakes are often vegan.
Always verify the current ingredients, as recipes can change. If you are outside the UK, look for oatcakes in the international aisle or order online.
How to Make Vegan Oatcakes at Home
Making vegan oatcakes at home is simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here is a basic recipe for Scottish-style oatcakes:
- 2 cups (200 g) rolled oats (or oat flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil or melted vegan butter
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) hot water (plus more if needed)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the oats and salt. Add the oil and hot water, then stir until a dough forms. If it is too dry, add a little more water; if too wet, add more oats. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick, then cut into rounds or squares. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden. Let them cool on a wire rack—they will crisp up as they cool.
For Staffordshire-style vegan oatcakes, you would use a batter of oat flour, plant milk, and a flax egg, cooked on a griddle like pancakes.
Nutritional and Health Considerations
Oatcakes are generally a healthy snack. They are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, and they provide some protein and healthy fats if made with oil. However, they are also calorie-dense, so portion control is wise. The vegan versions are often lower in saturated fat than those made with butter, but they can still be high in sodium, so check the salt content if you are watching your blood pressure.
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but many oatcakes are made in facilities that also process wheat, so they may contain gluten. If you need gluten-free oatcakes, look for brands that are certified gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Nairn’s oatcakes vegan?
Most Nairn’s oatcakes are vegan, but some varieties, such as those with cheese or chocolate, are not. Always check the label for the specific flavor.
Can I eat oatcakes on a plant-based diet?
Yes, as long as you choose oatcakes made without animal products. Many brands are accidentally vegan, and homemade versions are easy to make.
Are Staffordshire oatcakes vegan?
Traditional Staffordshire oatcakes contain milk and eggs, but vegan versions can be made using plant milk and egg replacers. Check with the maker if you are buying them.
What do oatcakes taste like?
Oatcakes have a mild, nutty, and slightly earthy flavor. They are not sweet and are often compared to a cross between a cracker and a biscuit. They are great with savory toppings.
How should I store oatcakes?
Store oatcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.
Conclusion
Oatcakes can easily be part of a vegan diet, but you need to be mindful of the ingredients. Whether you buy them from a store or make them at home, a quick check of the label or recipe will ensure they are plant-based. With their simple ingredients and satisfying crunch, oatcakes are a versatile addition to any vegan pantry.
Related
- Malva Pudding UK: Sticky South African Dessert Recipe
- Vegan Malva Pudding: A South African Classic
- Malva Pudding with Lots of Custard: A South African Classic
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).