The Sweet History of Anzac Biscuits: A Taste of Tradition

Introduction

Our MD Jon, as some of you may know, hails from South Island , New Zealand. When we were proposing new products for our retail range he suggested these biscuits which at the time, were unknown us. There are few treats as emblematic of Australian and New Zealand culture as Anzac biscuits. These simple, yet delicious cookies have a rich history dating back to World War I, and they continue to hold a special place in the hearts and homes of both nations. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the history of Anzac biscuits, their enduring significance, and of course, a recipe to bake your own batch of these iconic biscuits.

A Brief History

Anzac biscuits, often referred to as Anzac cookies in the United States, were created during World War I as a means to provide sustenance to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers. While the exact origin of the recipe is somewhat disputed, it is widely believed that they were devised by women on the home front to send to their loved ones serving overseas.

The biscuits were designed to be durable and long-lasting, making them ideal for shipping to the frontlines. They were also cost-effective, as they could be made with simple, readily available ingredients, such as oats, coconut, flour, sugar, and golden syrup. The absence of eggs in the recipe meant they didn't spoil easily during transit.

Anzac biscuits were not only a source of sustenance but also a symbol of comfort and love from home. They provided soldiers with a taste of familiarity and a reminder of the loved ones waiting for them.

The Name and Traditions

The name "Anzac" is derived from the acronym ANZAC, which stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. These biscuits were named in honor of the brave men and women who served during the war. The use of the term "Anzac" is protected by law in Australia, ensuring that only those biscuits conforming to the traditional recipe can be called "Anzac biscuits."

One of the most cherished traditions surrounding Anzac biscuits is their consumption on Anzac Day, which falls on April 25th each year. Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, and these biscuits are often baked and shared as a way to pay tribute to the veterans and remember their sacrifices.

The Recipe

Now that we've explored the history and significance of Anzac biscuits, it's time to try making them at home. Here's a classic Anzac biscuit recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup desiccated coconut

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup white sugar

• 125g (4.4 oz) unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons golden syrup

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 2 tablespoons boiling water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line baking trays with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, coconut, flour, and sugar.

3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup together over low heat.

4. Dissolve the baking soda in the boiling water, and then add it to the melted butter mixture.

5. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.

6. Roll spoonfuls of the mixture into balls and place them on the prepared baking trays, leaving some space between each.

7. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork.

8. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown.

9. Allow the biscuits to cool on the trays for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Conclusion

Anzac biscuits are more than just cookies; they are a tangible link to the past, a symbol of resilience, and a tribute to the men and women who served their countries during a time of war. Baking and enjoying Anzac biscuits today is a way to honor that heritage and connect with a tradition that has endured for over a century. So, on Anzac Day or any other day, whip up a batch of these delicious biscuits and savor a taste of history.