Anzac biscuits, also known simply as Anzacs, have a historical connection to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), and this is where they got their name from. Originally, they were made during WWI to be sent to the Anzac army serving in Gallipoli.
The biscuits have distinctive texture with crispy edges and chewy centre. The important ingredient of the Anzac biscuits, except for the oats and desiccated coconut, is the golden syrup.
Although it is claimed that the golden syrup (light treacle) was invented by the British company Abram Lyle & Sons in 1885, there are apparently earlier mentions of the golden syrup in Australia dating back to 1840. Either way, the golden syrup has a strong presence in Australian and New Zealand cuisine and can be found in many recipes, including the Anzac biscuits.
Ingredients
180g / 1 cup rolled oats
180g / 2 cups desiccated coconut
200g / 1 cup plain flour
200g / 1 cup caster sugar
200g unsalted butter
4 TBS golden syrup
4 TBS boiling water
2 tsp baking soda
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F and line two large baking trays with baking paper or reusable silicone mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, desiccated coconut, plain flour, and caster sugar.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup over low heat, stirring until well combined. Leave aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the baking soda with the boiling water, add it to the melted butter mixture and stir well.
- Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spoon, stir everything together until you have a sticky dough.
- Take portions of the dough with a spoon and roll them into balls. Place them on the lined baking trays. Make sure to leave enough space between them as they will spread while baking.
- Flatten each ball slightly and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the baking trays for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee.
Makes about 24 biscuits.