A Tasty Tradition with a Rich History
ANZAC Day biscuits are a traditional treat baked in Australia and New Zealand, especially around ANZAC Day on April 25. These delicious biscuits have a special connection to the soldiers who fought during World War I, particularly at Gallipoli.
The Connection to Gallipoli
During the war, families wanted to send food to soldiers on the frontlines that would stay fresh during long voyages by sea. Traditional baked goods, like cakes and bread, would spoil, but ANZAC biscuits were perfect because they didn’t contain eggs, which would have caused the biscuits to go bad. Instead, the combination of rolled oats, flour, sugar, coconut, and golden syrup created a durable and nutritious snack that could withstand the journey.
These biscuits were originally called “soldier’s biscuits,” but after the Gallipoli campaign, they have renamed ANZAC biscuits in honor of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC).
ANZAC Biscuit Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to make these historic biscuits:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 125g (about 1/2 cup) butter
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons boiling water
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, coconut, and sugar.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup over low heat until combined.
In a separate bowl, dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water, then stir into the butter mixture.
Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well.
Roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls and place on the baking tray. Flatten them slightly.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow the biscuits to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These biscuits can be enjoyed as a tribute to the ANZACs, reminding us of their sacrifices while providing a tasty link to history.
Modern Connection
Today, ANZAC biscuits are enjoyed by people across Australia and New Zealand, particularly around ANZAC Day. The biscuits symbolize the resilience and resourcefulness of the soldiers and their families, and baking them is a way to honor and remember those who served in both world wars.
ANZAC biscuits are also widely available in supermarkets and bakeries, but making them at home brings an authentic and personal touch to this historic tradition.
