This recipe was passed down from my husband’s Grandmother.
There are many Anzac biscuit recipes but I really like this one, and I love to think of my husband’s Gran baking these in a warm kitchen on a wood stove.
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The story goes that these biscuits were baked by Australian and New Zealand ladies and sent to soldiers overseas during World War I. The biscuits keep very well and the ingredients are pantry staples. They are a great way to commemorate and give thanks for all those who have served our country.
Anzac biscuits are easy for young bakers to make, thanks to the melt and mix recipe.
These ingredients are very familiar to all Australians, but they may not be to you. Golden syrup is made from cane sugar. The most common brand available here is CSR Golden Syrup, but I found Lyle’s Golden Syrup as an alternative.
Desiccated coconut is easy to find here (I grew up on this stuff!) and is an unsweetened, dried and finely shredded coconut. This one looks quite similar to what we have here, but if you can only find shredded dried coconut, that can definitely be used. Your biscuit texture may be a little different, but they will still be delicious.
And by the way, because so many people ask me, The Australian/English “biscuit” means the same as the US “cookie” 🍪
Anzac Biscuits
The classic and traditional Anzac biscuit from a handed down family recipe.
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1.5 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 tbsp golden syrup
- 170 grams (6oz) butter
- 1 tsp bicarb soda (baking soda)
- 3 tbsp boiling water
Preheat oven to 160 degrees (C) or 320 (F)
Melt butter and syrup together in a saucepan or in the microwave.
Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl.
In a cup, pour the boiling water over the bicarb soda and mix.
Pour water and soda mix into melted butter mixture.
Pour combined wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well.
Use a dessert spoon to portion out the dough onto a baking tray lined with baking paper. Allow room for spreading between biscuits.
Bake for 15 – 20 minutes.
Remove from oven and allow to cool on the tray intil firm enough to transfer to a baking rack.
Anzac biscuits are wonderful when enjoyed with a glass of milk or cup of tea.
I hope you enjoy them too!