Anzac day remains a special day for both New Zealanders and Australians, remembering those that served and died in all wars, ensuring the continuation of our freedom. Both nations have different ways of commemorating the day but the common threads in both countries are dawn services and Anzac biscuits.
The tradition of making Anzac biscuits started with those left at home sending food parcels to soldiers overseas. The ingredients had long shelf lives and so were ideal to send overseas on long naval voyages without going off. The recipe has changed over the years but what is generally accepted as Anzac biscuits now are crispy and chewy oaty biscuits made with golden syrup.
The recipe below is courtesy of Donna Hay and is her take on the traditional Anzac biscuit recipe. Give it a go and let us know how you get on!
Oaty ANZAC biscuits
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (180g) rolled oats
- 1 cup (150g) plain flour
- ⅔ cup (150g) caster sugar
- ¾ cup (60g) desiccated coconut
- ⅓ cup (115g) golden syrup
- 125g unsalted butter, chopped
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
- 2 tablespoons hot water
Method:
Preheat oven to 160°C. Place the oats, flour, sugar and coconut in a large bowl and mix to combine. Place the golden syrup and butter in a saucepan over low heat and cook, stirring, until the butter is melted. Place the bicarbonate of soda and water in a small bowl, mix to combine and add to the butter mixture. Pour the butter mixture into the oat mixture and stir until well combined. Spoon heaped tablespoons of the mixture onto baking trays lined with non-stick baking paper and flatten into 7cm rounds, allowing room to spread. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until deep golden. Allow to cool on baking trays for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Makes 25.
Tip: dip the measuring cup in boiling water before hand so that the golden syrup slides off easily.
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If you’re a purist you will likely stick to the traditional Anzac biscuit with no added fruit, nuts, or chocolate. However if you’re feeling adventurous you can dip them in chocolate once they have cooled, or add dried fruit or nuts to the mix. What is your take on the Anzac biscuit recipe? Do you stick to the traditional recipe or do you add something extra? Share your tips with us below!
How do you plan on marking Anzac day this year?
Like the EziBuy products used? We used the Forte Mug in pink and charcoal, 100% Linen napkins in chalk, Sabato Chopping Board and Forte Cannister in charcoal. Shop the full Chic Kitchenware collection here.
